Former darts champion Wilson dies

Former world darts champion Jocky Wilson has died at the age of 62.

Former world darts champion Jocky Wilson has died at the age of 62.

A spokeswoman for Fife police confirmed that Wilson passed away at his home in Kirkcaldy, Scotland, last night.

Wilson, who won world titles in 1982 and 1989, had recently been suffering with the lung disorder chronic pulmonary obstructive disease.

A statement on the official Professional Darts Corporation's Twitter page read: “We are very saddened to hear of the death of former World Champion Jocky Wilson. Simply devastated. #RIPJocky”.

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Wilson turned professional in 1979 and enjoyed a stellar career through to his retirement in 1996.

He reached at least the quarter-finals of every World Championship between 1979 and 1991 and was a four-time British champion between 1981 and 1988 and a three-time Scottish Masters champion.

Fellow stars from the world of darts paid tribute to Wilson today.

Two time World Championship runner-up Bobby George wrote on his Twitter page: “Farewell John Thomas (Jocky) Wilson. We had some great times together will never forget you and your toothless grin! Great #darts #legend”.

Wayne Mardle tweeted: “Jocky Wilson the darting legend has passed away. What a character, I loved watching him play”.

PA