SCOTT Mitchell has revealed his secret weapon ahead of his Lakeside world title defence – repaired boxer shorts.

The Bransgore ace donned his England-themed garment during his victorious first-round match against Craig Caldwell earlier this afternoon.

Mitchell wore the boxers throughout his victorious campaign last year but they sustained significant damage when the Dorset county star celebrated after the World Cup pairs semi-final two months ago.

Thanks to the needlework abilities of Mitchell's wife Sharon, the underwear has been restored to its former glory and now number six seed 'Scotty Dog' can rest easy knowing he has his first-choice kit available.

Mitchell told the Daily Echo: "My lucky pair of boxers have had a major rebuild and Sharon, being a seamstress, has undertaken the task very well. They look in good shape, although they are a different colour in certain sections!

"I wore them all week at Lakeside last year and I was washing them after each game, hanging them out on the balcony or drying them with a hairdryer.

"I am a little bit superstitious and there is a slight tradition there.

"I always have a pink pair with me if I need something to fall back on. But I kept losing in the first round when I wore them so I moved to England boxers and that seemed to work!

"Now they are rebuilt, everything is good."

Mitchell, who won the England Masters and Jersey Open in September and November, respectively, has vowed to get the most out of his return to the stage at the renowned BDO venue.

The 45-year-old is keen to alleviate pressure from his shoulders but admits nerves will play a part.

He added: "You don't go back to Lakeside as champion too often in your life so I am going to try and enjoy it.

"Rather than put pressure on myself, I am going to keep the routine the same as it was last year and really try and enjoy being champion rather than it being a burden.

"The first game will be a bit more nervy than usual but, hopefully, I can come through it.

"If you get through the first round, the world champion tag slips from your neck and you are just one of the last 16 players."

Mitchell will now will face either fellow England international Mark McGeeney, Peter Sajwani or Sam Hewson in the last 16.

Three-time champion Martin Adams, who Mitchell defeated 7-6 in a scintillating final last year, is due to open his tournament against either Matthew Medhurst or Jeff Smith.