THE Crafty Cockney Eric Bristow scored a bullseye with darts fans when he stepped up to the oche in Odiham.

The five-time darts world champion played 16 games against regulars at The Crown, in Alton Road, on Tuesday night.

Despite his reputation as one of the greatest-ever players, Mr Bristow found the competition tough going - but he still kept a smile on his face.

Phil Burgess, who manages the pub, said: "He was beaten by three players and there were a couple of games where he should have lost but managed to win.

"It was a really good night. Everyone had a great time."

Mr Bristow said he still gets a buzz from playing in front of a crowd.

He said: "When you've been in people's homes for 20 years, they're never going to forget you. But it's great when you're playing in a pub - the atmosphere builds up and people start shouting. That's what it's all about."

For life-long darts fan Mr Burgess, the chance to have one of his idols visit his pub was a dream come true.

He said: "When Punch Taverns bought The Crown, there was a limited number of introductory events on offer so I got on the phone as soon as possible. I grew up watching darts."

First published: Friday, April 22, 2005