ST HELENS is rejoicing after Michael Smith won the World Darts Championship for the first time after a brilliant victory over Michael van Gerwen at Alexandra Palace.

The 32-year-old, a two-time runner-up including a painful defeat to Peter Wright 12 months ago, hit darting perfection in the second set with a nine-dart finish.

He continued to produce some mesmeric scoring as he won one of the greatest finals ever 7-4.

READ MORE>Michael Smith lands nine-darter on an incredible night of glory

In taking his maiden title at the third attempt he also became world number one and gained revenge for the 2019 final defeat to Van Gerwen.

 

He celebrated wildly before hugging wife Dagmara and children Michael Junior and Kasper.

 

'St Helens can't stop winning'

People across St Helens rejoiced, with many Saints, the council and local businesses among those sharing messages of congratulations on social media.

Dozens of Star readers added their own too.

Jill Smyth wrote: "Absolutely amazing darts final tonight well done to our Bully Boy so very proud of our local lad."

Ian Pitts added: "Loved it!!! Well done!!! St Helens can’t stop winning … world's number 1 x"

John Johnson wrote: "Congratulations Michael, world class performance thoroughly deserved."

Sue Evans wrote: "St Helens is a town full of champions, well done Smithy."

Jeanette Watkinson wrote: "Absolutely brilliant and that 9 darter ...omg l think all our street heard us cheering."