STUART Bingham is in to the last 16 of the Snooker World Championship after beating David Gilbert 10-4 at the Crucible.

Bingham has had a difficult season so far and must make at least the semi-finals to save his place in the top 16.

And he wrapped up his first round victory on Sunday.

Basildon's Bingham told the World Snooker website: “I was nervy this morning and didn’t settle for a couple of frames.

"Once I took the second frame that settled me down.

"I went to the toilet, had a talk to myself and won the last three frames with a break over 50 in each. It was nice to get over the line.

“I walked through into the arena and the World Championship trophy was there.

"I told myself that was why I am here and to get myself playing. That helped me.

Bingham now faces a last 16 meeting with either player of the season so far Mark Allen, or Crucible debutant Fan Zhengyi.

Bingham added: “Mark has been the player of the season.

"He’s seeded third for this tournament and is obviously one of the favourites.

"Since Christmas he hasn’t played as well, but I expect a good game no matter what.

"He’s probably underachieved here.

"He should have got his hands on that trophy. I respect him as a player and a person.

"We will have three days of fun and I’m sure it will be top quality snooker.”