DIDCOT'S Clare Bywaters could move a step nearer her dream of winning the women's world title by beating great rival and world No 2 Francisca Hoenselaar in today's semi-final at the Lakeside Leisure Centre, Frimley Green.

Victory for the 31-year-old reigning European woman's singles champion, who beat Denmark's world No 3 Carina Ekberg 2-0 in the quarter-finals, would see her face England's world champion Trina Gulliver after her 2-0 victory over Karin Krappen.

Bywaters, an assistant financial controller who is at her first world finals, will be watched by her proud parents, Peter and Marion Bywaters.

Clare said: "It's what every player dreams about - playing on the stage at the Lakeside.

"It was amazing. After winning the quarter-finals, I'm confident I can do it and win the final - you've got to be. But of course, I have to beat Francisca first."