WILLIAMS HOPES TO BE FLASH

MARK WILLIAMS has raised the terrifying prospect of naked cartwheels if he repeats last year’s stunning Crucible triumph.

The 44-year-old Welshman did his winner’s press conference in the buff 12 months ago – honouring a rash promise earlier in the event.

And the world No.3, who starts his bid for a fourth Betfred World Championship success today against Martin Gould (below), has been partying hard ever since.

Still living the dream after a year of drinking, kebabs, nights out, golf, cards and trips abroad, Williams even planned to spend last night preparing for his defence in a casino.

“I think a few people appreciated me keeping my daft promise to do the press conference naked if I won,” he said. “I had said it, I had no choice. I only wore the towel because Barry Hearn made me.

“And apparently I also said that if I did it again this year, I’d top that by doing naked cartwheels out there. Well, who cares if it happens. My little pecker will be floating around in the wind, but for £500,000 you wouldn’t worry about it.

“If somehow I won the World Championship again I think I would take the whole season off.

“It’s the been the best time of my life. I said I would enjoy it, and I did. I’ve done the lot. Nights out, drinking, kebabs, cards, golf, New York, Spain, Dubai – probably the best place I’ve ever been – everything bar snooker.

“Winning that third world title has made my career. My form has suffered over the season as a result of taking it easy, but for the last six months I’ve been looking forward to walking out as defending champion.”