Barry Hawkins credits Terry Griffiths for recent performances

World Snooker Championship runner-up Barry Hawkins has credited his recent success to mentor Terry Griffiths.

The 34-year-old's run to the final, where he lost to Ronnie O'Sullivan, was the first time he'd gone beyond round two since turning professional in 1996.

"Terry has helped no end on the mental side of things in the last couple of years," he told BBC Radio Kent.

"Technically he's tweaked a few things but it's been on the psychology that he's been a massive help."

Up until this season, the Kent-based snooker player has been something of a journeyman on the circuit having spent the majority of his career outside the top 16 in the world rankings.

But in July 2012 he won his first ranking event by claiming victory at the Australian Open in Bendigo defeating Peter Ebdon 9-3 in the final.

"The turnaround I've had since I started working with Terry Griffiths is unbelievable really - he's made me believe in myself," Hawkins added.

"Winning in Australia really kick started my confidence and self belief which I know I've lacked that in the past.

"My main aim is to push on and keep threatening to win tournaments now I've made a breakthrough."