Both players had won six games to reach the final in the 128-man tournament and it was Wakelin who took full control of the final, notching a century break of 119 to give Leclerq no chance of lifting the title.
After winning the tournament, Wakelin told Eurosport: "It was the first time all week, the first time in the Shoot Out, I made a break over 50 so I am going to celebrate that.
"This week saw 128 players turn up to give it their best shot and throw their name in the hat, and I am lucky to be the man who comes out on top."
In snooker’s most unpredictable tournament given its fast-paced nature over just one frame, Leclerq - just 19 - was looking to become the seventh teenager to lift a ranking title.
He had a great run, beating Dominic Dale in the semi-final 98-8 as well as gaining other scalps over experienced pros Michael Holt and Peter Lines, but it was Wakelin who took home the £50,000 prize as well as £5,000 bonus for highest break - the 119 in the final.
The tournament, as ever, provided shocks in what was a raucous atmosphere in the East Midlands.
One shining star was Dechawat Poomjaeng with the Thai player making new fans both on and off the table.
His dream run included a win over Mark Williams but it ended with a defeat to Liam Highfield in the last 16.
The snooker tour rolls on next week with a visit to the continent and to the German Masters, which starts on February 1.