HOSTED by the Imperial Bar, Weston, the Selwood Darts tournament, a local amateur competition now in its 12th year, saw defending champion Rob Field lose his crown to newcomer Sam Hurd in the final.

HOSTED by the Imperial Bar, Weston, the Selwood Darts tournament, a local amateur competition now in its 12th year, saw defending champion Rob Field lose his crown to newcomer Sam Hurd in the final.

The standard of darts was exceptional throughout, with 100s and 140s commonplace, and early signs indicated that defending champion Rob would retain his trophy, quickly ascertaining a 1-0 lead. Unfortunately, Sam had different ideas and battled valiantly with relentless doubles to pull back to 1-1.

It was to be an exciting decider and, although Rob seemed to have sewn it up, Sam threw a punishing series of darts to leave his opponent looking to the skies for answers. Despite a late rally, the class shone through from the newcomer and Sam checked out from an impressive 114 to close the match. He becomes the first person to take the trophy outside Weston.

Speaking afterwards, Sam said: "I'm just glad to have won. It was a great battle but my practice has clearly paid off."

The Selwood tournament will be contested again in August 2010.