The 71-year-old Blantyre-based qualifier took an early lead in the opening set with two singles against home player Mark Dawes at Potters Leisure Resort in Hopton-on-Sea in Norfolk. 

Dawes, ranked 16th in the world, soon fought back to win the first set 9-4 before opening the second with two doubles and looked in control.

But Bence fought valiantly and a superb second-half of the set saw him triumph 10-7 to force a tie-break, which he won 2-1.

Bence, who had already exceeded expectations by qualifying for the tournament, is now due to face the winner of England's Nick Brett and Northern Ireland's Andrew Kyle in the second round.

On a good day for Scotland, world number nine Stewart Anderson also won comfortable against fellow countrywoman Julie Forrest.

Anderson made a strong start and then maintained his momentum to win 13-3, 7-2.

Singles action is due to continue over the next two days before the mixed pair competition starts on Friday (January 20).