A MECHANIC has lived his dream of competing against darting ace Raymond van Barneveld.

Simon Novelle, from Binfield, took on the five-times darts world champion in a private exhibition.

He said: “It is a dream come true to play a legend such as Barney and to have our own private exhibition with him.

“It was an unbelievable experience and we all had a fantastic day.”

Mr Novelle and nine of his friends played against the professional and nearly won, with the match ending in a 3-2 defeat.

He added: “It was a bit disappointing to lose the deciding leg against him, but I think nerves just got the better of me.

“I met Raymond briefly once before when I was watching him play in the World Championships at Lakeside more than 10 years ago."

The 41-year-old won a competition to play against the professional at the Screwfix Live three-day show in Farnborough.

He said: “It is something I will never forget and I cannot thank Triton Tools enough.

"They put on an all-expenses paid day for us and made 10 people from Berkshire very happy.”

Simon got to experience being a professional darts player with walk on music to the stage, an MC and referee.

Professional darts player Van Barneveld added: “It was a great day and I really enjoyed it.

"Quite a few of the group were very good darts players and I had a great game against Simon, who played really well.

“For Triton Tools to give this opportunity was a fantastic prize and I am really glad the day was such a success.”

Simon continues to play darts at his local clubs on a Monday and Tuesday, in the Yateley League and Winkfield Club in the Bracknell & Ascot League.

Mark Pearson, global brand manager for Triton Tools, added: "Raymond is a fantastic ambassador for us and a real legend of darts.

“We are delighted to have made this opportunity available at Screwfix Live.