PAUL Booth had every reason to be nervous as he prepared for his biggest ever darts gig' - acting as Master of Ceremonies for the League of Legends.

Not only did Blackburn-born Booth have the responsibility of introducing some of the best players the game has seen, he was also standing on the stage at the darts equivalent of Wembley...the Circus Tavern in Purfleet.

Then there was the small matter of performing in front of a live' TV audience from across the world.

"When the floor manager counted me down I have to admit I was a bag of nerves," said the 39-year-old. "But I took a deep breath and just got on with it.

"In the end, it was a wonderful experience and a brilliant night."

The first leg of BetFred.Com League of Legends included such household names as Eric Bristow, Bobby George, John Lowe, Bob Anderson and Keith Deller.

And Booth had the task of making sure it all ran like clockwork - not bad for the self-confessed darts fan who used to arrange exhibitions nights when he ran the Horden Arms.

"I've always liked darts and when I ran the pub it was a great chance for me to get more involved, " added the former Darwen Vale pupil. "It all went from there."

Booth first worked with Peter One Dart' Manley then Adrian Lewis, picking up an impressive darts portfolio as he went along.

And his djing background made him perfect for the big stage - although he still admits it is a shock he is working with such legends.

"I know all of these brilliant players on first name terms. It's incredible really."

The League of Legends, televised on Setanta Sports, comes to Blackburn's King George's Hall on Friday June 20 and Booth can't wait to perform' on home soil.

"The Circus Tavern was a sell-out and there was a superb atmosphere but coming to Blackburn will be special.

The League of Legends also includes Peter Evison, Dave Whitcombe and Cliff Lazarenko.

For further information contact the King George's Hall box office on 08448 471664 or visit the King George's Hall website.