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Darts Legend Jocky Wilson Dies Aged 62

Darts Legend Jocky Wilson Dies Aged 62

The world of darts has been paying tribute to former world champion Jocky Wilson who has died at the age of 62.

The two-times world champion passed away on Saturday night at his home in Kirkcaldy, Fife, just two days after his birthday.

Wilson had been suffering from chronic pulmonary obstructive disease.

Two years ago he was told to stop smoking or die. He had been a heavy smoker for 40 years.

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

Record world title winner Phil Taylor said: "We owe Jocky so much. With the likes of Eric Bristow and John Lowe, he made the game what it is 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!"

Current darts star Wayne Mardle Tweeted: "Jocky Wilson the darting legend has passed away. What a character, I loved watching him play."

Wilson enjoyed a stellar career after turning professional in 1979.

He reached at least the quarter-finals of every World Championship between 1979 and 1991 and was British champion four times between 1981 and 1988.

He also won the Scottish Masters three times.

His world titles came in 1982 when he beat Lowe 5-3 in the final and in 1989 when he defeated Bristow 6-4.

A founding member of the Professional Darts Corporation , he retired in 1996.