
Ipswich's only independent news website
We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking
Ipswich's Stephen Burton suffered a straight-sets defeat to Alexander Merkx in the first round of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace, with Suffolk superstar Ed Sheeran watching from the crowd.
Why it matters: Burton, ranked 64th in the PDC Order of Merit, was making just his second appearance at darts' biggest tournament after exiting in the first round in 2019 following a straight sets defeat to Ryan Searle.

Match details:
Burton failed to win a single set in the 3-0 defeat and struggled with scoring throughout
Merkx, who himelf didn't play brilliantly, progresses to face Chris Dobey in round two
The background: Burton, 36, known as 'Bertie' on the circuit, qualified for the tournament through the Pro Tour Order of Merit. He combines his professional darts career with work as a self-employed window cleaner in Ipswich.
He entered the match as the bookmaker's favourite but just couldn't get going.
Star support: Global music star Ed Sheeran was among the Alexandra Palace crowd watching his fellow local.
Bottom line: Despite the disappointing result, Burton's qualification for darts' premier event represents progress for the former Debenham High School pupil, who first earned his PDC Tour Card in 2017.

We can't do this without you!
If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year