Chatteris potter Joe Perry claimed a famous World Championship success tonight(Saturday).

The local star beat reigning champion Mark Selby 10-4 in the first round of the tournament in Sheffield.

Perry won the opening four frames of the morning session and ended with a commanding 7-2 advantage after a century break in the ninth frame.

The 43 year-old – the oldest player in the event - also won the first frame of the evening session before world number one Selby hit back to narrow the deficit to 8-4.

But Perry produced a fine break of 76 to take the 14th frame and move to the brink of a victory secured by another sparkling run of 90.

Perry said: “In terms of wins I’ve had against great players this is right up there.

“To beat the world champion and the world number one is a great feeling.

“You know Mark never rolls over so I started to feel it when he came back at me to 8-4.

“It was a massive moment to win the next frame as he was starting to look good.

“I knew I had to perform at the best of my ability and I did that for the most part.

“A few nice bits of luck were on my side as well and I was able to capitalise on them.

“Mark is the best player and the best ambassador we have, and I didn’t want to show off. I have too much respect for him to go over the top.”

Perry is playing in the World Championship for the 15th time. His best Crucible run came in 2008 when he reached the semi-finals.

He will now face either Masters champion Mark Allen or qualifier Liam Highfield in the second round. That best-of-25 match will be played over Thursday and Friday.

“The result against Mark (Selby) will count for nothing on Thursday,” added Perry. “I know I have to go out there and produce again.

“I’ve had a funny season to be honest. I’ve not played badly, but I’ve not done particularly well either.

“I’ve just been at a level that has allowed to win a few matches and earn a few quid. Hopefully I’ve saved some good form for now.”

The total prize fund for this year’s World Championship is a whopping £1,968,000.

Winner: £425,000

Runner-up: £180,000

Semifinal: £85,000

Quarterfinal: £42,500

Last 16: £27,500

Last 32: £18,000

Last 48: £13,500

Last 80: £9,000

Televised highest break: £10,000

Non-televised highest break: £1,000

Total: £1,968,000