THE RIGHT TIME FOR MCDONALD TO CHECK OUT

THE World Darts Championship is back.

- BY STEPHEN KILLEN

Bigger and better than ever but for master of ceremonies John McDonald, the countdown to his final call is on as he prepares to bid farewell to darts.

Since joining in 2004, then becoming a mainstay in 2007, McDonald has said "ladies and gentlemen" more times than he dares to remember. On January 3, he will say it for the last time.

"The greatest show on earth and that bloke who couldn't read or write is going to give it to you, for the last time before he rides off into the sunset, that's what happens at the end of every good film isn't it?," said McDonald.

Sport has revolved around his life, and in particular darts, after he was snapped up by Barry Hearn after impressing him in boxing.