NEW world snooker champion Mark Williams put paid to Bromsgrove-born Stephen Lee's title hopes by comfortably defeating him in the semi-finals at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre.

The 28-year-old, trailing 7-1 at one stage, eventually went down 17-8 last Saturday to the new world number one, who edged out Ken Doherty 18-16 in the final on Monday.

Lee, who beat Steve Davis, Jimmy White and Marco Fu to reach the last four, said: "I have beaten some good people but was disappointed with how I played in the semi final.

"It's been hard but I should be more prepared for next season."

He now plans to enjoy the summer and is looking forward to becoming a father again with the arrival of twins in August.