Alfie Hewett has started his pursuit of a first Wimbledon men's wheelchair singles final strongly.

Norwich Evening News: Alfie Hewett in action against Stephane Houdet at Wimbledon Picture: Steven Paston/PA WireAlfie Hewett in action against Stephane Houdet at Wimbledon Picture: Steven Paston/PA Wire (Image: PA Wire)

The 20-year-old, from Cantley, won 7-6 (7-3) 6-4 against experienced Frenchman Stephane Houdet in the quarter-finals on Thursday.

Hewett is second in the world singles rankings and heads into the semi-finals as the top seed remaining after seeing world number one Shingo Kuneida of Japan knocked out by Gustavo Fernandez.

The former Acle High School pupil is set to face world number seven Stefan Olsson of Sweden in Friday's semi-final, who beat Nicolas Peifer 6-2 6-3 in the quarters.

Hewett has won the doubles title at Wimbledon alongside fellow British player Gordon Reid in each of the last two years and they begin the defence of their crown as well on Friday, against Kuneida and Fernandez. Hewett has won grand slam singles titles at the US Open and French Open previously, as well as silver at the Paralympics.

Norwich Evening News: Alfie Hewett celebrates as he closed on victory over Stephane Houdet at Wimbledon Picture: Steven Paston/PA WireAlfie Hewett celebrates as he closed on victory over Stephane Houdet at Wimbledon Picture: Steven Paston/PA Wire (Image: PA Wire)