FORMER snooker world finalist Ali Carter has won his first professional title since battling cancer in a tournament named after a player who died from the disease.

Mr Carter, 36, who was given the all clear from lung cancer in December, beat Shaun Murphy in the Paul Hunter Classic.

The final took place in Germany, on Sunday, where Carter beat Murphy 4-3.

Mr Carter, of Tiptree, was diagnosed with lung cancer last May having already recovered from testicular cancer.

Writing on Twitter, he said: “What do we all think of that then? Can't believe I've won again after everything I've been through.”

The tournament is named after snooker player Paul Hunter who died from cancer in 2006.

The win saw Carter pick up the £18,000 top prize and boosted him four places in the world rankings.

Rival Murphy later Tweeted his congratulations saying: “Couldn't be a more deserving winner of the Paul Hunter Classic than Ali Cater.

“Congratulations mate. Back where you belong in the winner’s enclosure.”

Carter has reached the World Championship final twice, in 2008 and 2012, losing both times to fellow Essex player Ronnie O’Sullivan.