NEW Forest darts ace Scott Mitchell reckons swapping packets of crisps for apples and oranges is paying off – after venturing deep into the Dutch Open.

The ace darts thrower dropped an astonishing nine pounds in weight last week following a health kick which he started at the end of January.

The 46-year-old believes his dietary shift bore fruit at the notoriously competitive tournament in Assen, where he won nine matches to reach the singles semi-finals and triumphed in the pairs.

“I doubt I’ll ever be the complete sportsperson with the game I’m playing but I’m all for anything which can help you,” said Mitchell.

Energy “I’m not out there to lose five stone or anything silly like that, it’s just about making my food give me more energy. Instead of getting a bag of crisps when I’m hungry, I get an apple or an orange instead.

“It’s not to change my size in any way but it just makes the longer days a bit easier. Dropping nine pounds last week didn’t half help at the Dutch Open!

“I’m changing my mindset on how and when I eat and seeing where it takes me. I’m eating the same amount of food so it’s not as if I’m hungry!”

Elsewhere, the Bransgore thrower enjoyed pairs success alongside James Hurrell, the duo banking a 5-4 victory over Mark McGeeney and Craig Quinn in the final.