Kent's Barry Hawkins has been to the semi-finals of the Welsh Open before

Kent's Barry Hawkins believes he is close to winning his first major snooker tournament.

Hawkins, 30, from Dartford, swept aside 2002 World Champion Peter Edbon 5-0 in the fist round if the Welsh Open, and credited his family life for his form.

"I had a little boy last year so I can't really be any happier off the table so perhaps that's just starting to show," Hawkins told BBC Radio Kent.

"As long as I keep practicing hard then hopefully my time will come."

He added: "I'm not saying this is the reason why I'm playing well, but I've changed my table and I've got a new light.

"I've got new management as well so things are quite good at the minute.

"The belief in myself probably wasn't there a few years back but I know I can do it. It's just a matter of a bit more consistency really and having a lot of belief in yourself and in a big situation just take a step back and take a deep breath.

"Hopefully it's just a matter of time. I can only keep trying hard and hopefully my time will come."

Nicknamed "The Hawk," the former office clerk turned professional in 1996 and made his highest break of 145 at the 2005 Grand Prix. In 2005-2006 he reached the semi-finals of the Grand Prix and the Welsh Open.

So far, Hawkins's record at the World Championship has been unsuccessful with a win-loss record of 0-4.

Although right-handed Hawkins normally plays snooker left-handed but plays shots requiring a rest with his right hand.

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