Snooker: Hunter outclasses McCulloch to take title

Paul Hunter beat Ian McCulloch 9-4 last night to win the British Open at Telford and pocket the £52,000 first prize.

Hunter, the world No 9 from Leeds, exploited McCulloch's nervousness at appearing in his first major final by taking their first three frames.

When McCulloch, who had beaten John Higgins and Mark Williams earlier in the tournament, did compose himself to win frame four, Hunter replied with a break of 110 and was never again threatened.

"I was happy with the way I played all week," Hunter said. "I felt I was the best player all through the tournament and came out on top in the final."

However, McCulloch, who collected £26,000, now rises to a provisional 26th in the rankings and was satisfied with his run to the final.