Steve Farmer

Shropshire darter Steve Farmer has clinched the first big-time title of his 25-year career – and earned an appearance on television in the process.

Farmer produced a brilliant display to win the PDC Players Championship in Holland yesterday, winning seven matches to pocket the £6,000 first prize.

He claimed some major scalps along the way, defeating Premeir League star Ronnie Baxter in the early rounds before edging out former world championship finalist Kevin Painter 6-4 in the final.

“It’s the best moment of my career and I’m lost for words, quite emotional really,” said the 45-year-old. “I’ve been playing for over 25 years and all the practice has paid off.

“When I was up there on the stage for the final, I was determined not to waste all those years and to win this is a dream come true.”

There was a double cause for celebration for Farmer, whose victory earned him a place in the Bodog.com World Grand Prix.

The double-start event takes place in Dublin in the first week in October and will be shown live on Sky Sports.

“I knew going into the tournament that I had to win it to get into the World Grand Prix but I had to try put it out of my mind in the final,” he added.

“I’m looking forward to playing in the World Grand Prix now and it’s good to see the double-start format on television. Anything can happen, so bring it on.”

By James Garrison