Darts ace Paul Gibbs became an overnight TV star last weekend when he chalked up second place in the English Open.

The former Hampshire A team player was a whisker away from beating Scotland captain Mike Veitch in a quality competition that attracted Eurosport television cameras for live action for the first time.

Gibbs, a 34-year-old bricklayer from Bishop Sutton near Alresford, took experienced Veitch to 3-2 in the final and claimed some notable top-class scalps on the way, including that of Dutchmen Vincent van der Voort and Mario Robbe and England's Brian Woods.

Gibbs was an important member of Hampshire's county team for six years but decided to pursue his long-term aim of reaching the world championship finals at Frimley Green by taking part in as many opens as possible.

"It was a matter of choosing between county and playing in more tournaments.

"I really want to get to what used to be called the Embassy at Frimley Green, that's what I have always wanted," said Gibbs who came close to realising his dream in a qualifying tournament for the Lakeside World Championships last year.

Gibbs already has plenty of the attributes needed to be successful at Frimley Green. He is a class player, has the backing of his wife Ann-Marie and two 11-year-old twin daughters and now has valuable experience in front of cameras.

The one important ingredient missing is the backing of a sponsor although building company H Woollhead of Ropley gives him some support.

"It was surprising because I did not take any notice of the cameras and got on with my game," added Gibbs.

"I was so engrossed in the game itself that it was just like when I was playing for the county. I was aware of them and wondered how I was going to cope but it was fine.

"It was absolutely brilliant and I got a lot of support, especially from my friend Paul Hogan who I support when he is at Frimley Green."

Anyone interested in helping Gibbs with sponsorship can contact him on 01962 736002.