Top darts player still smiles despite losing (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Top darts player still smiles despite losing

CIRENCESTER darts sensation "Rocket" Ronnie Baxter is still raising a glass, despite losing out in the Ladbrokes.com World Championships.

The 41-year-old, who is ranked number three in the world, was one of the favourites going into the tournament in Essex.

Crowds packed around TV screens at the Brewers Arms in Cricklade Street, which Ronnie runs with partner Rachel Pallister, to cheer the landlord on.

But, despite his record of never having lost on the stage to third round opponent, Kevin Painter, his old rival exacted revenge last week beating the Rocket 5-3.

Now back pulling pints at the Brewers, Ronnie said: "I didn't play my own game. It just wouldn't come to me. Kevin played really well. It was third time lucky for him.

"I've got the whole year to practice for the next one now."

Ronnie, who is also a keen angler, plans to enter several more major darts tournaments this year.

Fellow landlords will also be quaking in their boots at news that the former Embassy World Championship runner-up plans to take them on in the local landlord's cup.

This year's Ladbrokes.com World Championship was won by Canadian John Part, who beat reigning champion Phil Taylor 7-6 in a dramatic final.