Stowmarket High School sixth-former Katherine Rednall has spoken of her delight after she was crowned the new ladies World Matchplay Singles champion.

The 18--year-old from Baylham triumphed against last year’s winner Rebecca Field, 14-4, 11-3 to be crowned the youngest-ever winner of the title.

The first set was fairly tight until Rednall took control with two maximums to go 12-4 ahead, before putting the set beyond doubt with two singles.

Rednall was a model of composure again in the second set and, despite a late challenge from Field who, at 9-1, clawed two singles back, the Suffolk bowler wrapped up the game with a double on end nine.

“It’s amazing, and it hasn’t sunk in yet,” said Rednall, whose dad John, mum Christine and gran Gwenda were cheering her on.

“I looked at the score in the second set and I knew if I kept getting singles I would be OK, but then I realised I had put two bowls on and it was a bit of a surprise.

“I have had so much support from everyone, ringing me, texting me and sending me good luck messages. It’s been lovely.”

For more reaction from Katherine Rednall and her dad John, as well as Chris Brammer’s take on Suffolk’s new world champion, see tomorrow’s Ipswich Star and East Anglian Daily Times.