Ford, from Martins Heron, and rival Jon Charlton had identical records throughout the sixth and final leg at Jesters Snooker Hall, Swindon.

They both dropped just one frame while winning all four of their group-stage matches and both lost 3-1 in the last-eight.

That meant that Ford’s one-point lead was enough to deliver the title and he was delighted to have just about done enough to hold on to top spot.

“I’m very pleased to win the rankings,” said the 39-year-old. “Especially considering I missed the first event.

“I have been quite consistent in the other five tournaments and to win by just a point made it an exciting climax.” Charlton needed to go a round further than Ford on the day to seal the overall title but couldn’t manage it, falling to a 3-1 defeat against Newbury’s Ian Rose as Ford was beaten by eventual tournament winner Ryan Mears.

“I was keeping one eye on Jon Charlton’s match on the other table and it was clear that Ian Rose was on top throughout,” added Ford.

“To be honest, I was just trying to stop Ryan but he was cueing so sweetly he thoroughly deserved to go through.” “I’m already looking forward to defending the title next season and for launching a challenge on the Seniors Tour.” Ford hit five half century breaks over the course of the day, with his best a total of 77.