IT was better than scoring 180, or hitting the bullseye when 103-yearold darts fan Elsie Beere’s favourite player recorded her own personalised birthday message.

Sprightly fan Elsie was stunned when world number 1, Dutch dart star Michael van Gerwen recorded a special video message to his oldest fan.

Elsie has also been offered a belated birthday present – in the form of two VIP tickets to enjoy the highcharged atmosphere of one of the champ’s matches.

Elsie, who was born on February 29, 1912, said: “It’s fantastic. I can’t believe it. It’s so exciting.

“He’s actually playing on TV tonight so I’m looking forward to seeing him then.

I’m pleased he won on Sunday too.”

Michael is Elsie’s favourite player because of the way he plays – fast and exciting.

He was shown the Gazette’s story about Elsie celebrating her 103rd birthday and decided to make his own birthday video to her.

In the video he holds a cake and blows out the candles and said: “Hi Elsie, I know we don’t have 103 candles but I wanted to wish you happy birthday.

“I would like to give you some tickets to come and watch me play.”

Despite loving the darts, Elsie, who lives with her son, Harry, in Regents Road, Brightlingsea, has never been to a professional match, since she prefers watching it on TV, along with her other favourite sport – snooker.

Cash Converters, one of van Gerwen’s sponsors, also decided to send Elsie a present – £103 to spend online.

Her son said she had received 21 cards on her birthday which this year she celebrated with family on February 28.

He added: “We are not sure if we will be able to take them up on their offer of tickets.

“I’ll have a chat with her grandson and see what we can come up with.

“It’s really very nice of them. She certainly never expected it.”