Linda Elriani has won the British National title for the first time at the 17th attempt.

She celebrated her success by spending her first St Valentine's Day with new husband Laurent after defeating Alison Waters (Middlesex) 9-2, 9-4, 9-3 in 30 minutes in her fifth final.

Linda, 33, from Eastbourne, kept in touch by phone throughout the tournament with French international Laurent, who was away at his national event, and the couple had a romantic dinner last night.

She said: "Chatting with Laurent through the week helped keep my spirits up and I have to thank him for his practical help, too, because we worked hard on court together in preparation.

"We have always played in our nationals on February 14 since we met three years ago. My win made our first Valentine's Day together extra special."

Waters, 20, was the first unseeded player to reach the final in the event's 30-year history.

Elriani, fresh from victories at the Greenwich and Dayton Opens in the United States, maintained her form to complete a hat-trick of 2005 successes.

She said: "Cassie Campion, the former world No.1 who beat me in my last two finals, has retired and people were saying this could be my year after winning two American titles.

"I was determined not to get ahead of myself and over-excited. I concentrated on every point and every game. There was no way I was underestimating Alison as she was on a roll. It paid off.

"I cried with joy at the end because I was so happy. It was a big relief after so many tries. It's my biggest success, even bigger than reaching the semi-finals of the World Championships."

Elriani, who trains at Corals (Hove), was praised by her coach.

Mike Harris said: "I'm so proud of her. She has worked so hard and I had a feeling she could do it."

Elriani will return to action for Chichester against Lee On Solent in the National Clubs League tonight. She will then fly to New York to compete in the Tournament of Champions at Grand Central Station.