PDC star Justin Pipe came through a strong field to win his first Dennis ‘Dablo’ Cake Memorial in Hafodyrynys, beating Welshman and reigning champion Barrie Bates to the title, writes Morgan Barrell.

Pipe, 47, from Taunton, threw outstanding darts throughout, including a 105.48 average and checkouts of 141,156 and 140 in a 4-0 semi-final whitewash of Jon Worsley.

In the final, Pipe, nicknamed ‘The Force’, came out of the blocks with all guns firing to take control against Bedlinog’s Bates, who had seen off Abergavenny’s Phil Embrey 4-1 in the semis.

Bates found form in the middle of the match to pick up two legs, but Pipe prevailed 5-2 to be crowned champion of the 64-strong Gwent Darts Organisation event.

The Englishman had earlier beaten Steve Williams 4-0, Ryan Palmer 4-1, Brian Cake 4-0 and Declan Cox 4-0 to make the last four.

Bates' run to the semis saw him defeat John Newland 4-1, Paul Linwood 4-0, Stephen Challenger 4-2 and Chris Savvery 4-1.

Meanwhile, county duo Cheryl Jones and Jon Worsley dominated in the ladies’ and men’s Gwent Super League, leading their sides to victory.

Jones hit a superb 25.47 average in her win over Hayley Matthews, who played well once again, as Cwmbran Rugby moved to within a point of top spot following their defeat of leaders Golddiggers.

Jones’ team-mate Kimberley Lewis, returning from her wedding in Florida, hit a 20+ average.

In the other games, Ebbw Vale beat Garndiffaith and Gaynor Boucher and Sarah Townsend ensured Top Club Risca went home from St Joes with a win.

In the men’s league, Chepstow FC star Worsley struck 15, 12 and 14-dart legs, which included three 180s, as his side won 5-2 at Crumlin Rugby.

The evergreen Bryan Cook and Richard Oliver claimed points for the home side.

Defending champions Pontnewydd moved into third place following a comfortable success at Abergavenny under stand-in skipper Ray Hardwick.

That leaves them four points behind second-placed Baneswell, who beat Brynmawr 6-1 at home with Paul Linwood providing the standout performance for the Newport outfit.

Third-placed Aberbargoed suffered a shock reverse at home to Cross Keys, who followed up their win over Hafodyrynys with Geraint Harbon and Gwent newcomer Corey Evans earning the vital points.

Chepstow won a narrow contest at Tredegar Cons, while Cwmbran Workies continued their good form with a fine 4-3 win at the Dodger.

The standard of darts in both the ladies’ and men’s leagues this season has been incredibly high, putting the county side in great shape for next weekend’s clash against the star-studded team from Surrey, who arrive on the back of a win against Suffolk.

Gwent currently sit proudly at the summit of British Inter-Counties Championship Division Two.

Doors in Hafodyrynys open at 10am on both days, with play starting at midday on the Saturday and 11.30am on the Sunday.

The support of the public is appreciated as Gwent seek an immediate return to Division One.