Lauren Smith and doubles partner Marcus Ellis will look to end their 2018 season on a high, having qualified for the HSBC BWF World Tour Finals.

Both Cumbrian Smith and Ellis admitted qualifying for the illustrious event in Guangzhou, China, which will be staged from December 12-16, wasn’t something they had planned for. 

The pair booked their spot at the World Tour finals following their latest success at the Scottish Open, beating Dutch opponents Jacco Arends and Selena Piek in an unconventional final with Arends suffering an injury that forced the Dutch pair to retire as Smith and Ellis claimed the mixed doubles title on Sunday.

While Smith, from Longtown, admitted it was a disappointing way to win, she was nevertheless delighted with the way the pair had played.

Smith, 27, said: "We’ve closed out all the games in two sets and we’ve been really efficient. 

"We’ve actually controlled all the matches, we’ve rarely been behind in a set.

"We’re really happy with that as that’s something a few months ago we weren’t doing."

Carlisle-born Smith added: "It’s incredible as I’m from Carlisle, so I’m just kind of down the road and my family are here supporting.

"I’ve been playing this tournament since I don’t even know when.

"To finally get the title is really special, it’s a great one to add to my collection."

*The Scottish Open Badminton Championships are being staged at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow from November 21-25. Tickets are on sale now at www.badmintonscotland.org.uk.