VIV Dundon is hungry for her first taste of England action.

The Clacton darts ace is representing her country at this weekend's international against the Rest of Europe, at the Lakeside Country Club in Frimley Green.

The 50-year-old will rub shoulders with some of the biggest names in the sport, including Essex star Andy The Viking' Fordham.

The England squad includes holders of over 60 European and world titles, while Russian Anastasia Dobromyslova - the British Darts Organisation women's world professional champion - will represent Europe.

"To see the names of those involved brings home to me what a fantastic acheivement my call-up is," Dundon told the Gazette.

"I'm looking forward to meeting the rest of the team but obviously feel apprehensive too. It'll be my first appearance on the Lakeside stage.

"I look at the squads and think am I really this good?' "But my family, friends and work colleagues have been so supportive and that's been a really positive aspect, to realise how many real supporters I have.

"To be told I deserve to be there and that I'm a good player has been great for my self-confidence.

"I've been practising hard and hope I'm on form on the day - I can't ask for any more."

Dundon, a regular for Essex, has also been selected for next month's British international against Wales in Renfrew, Scotland.

Meanwhile, Dundon, who lives in Land Close, has received a very welcome boost in the form of vital sponsorship.

She has received backing from businessman and fellow Essex county player Andy Burmby (the pair are pictured), from Colchester's Full-Dec Painting and Decorating Contractors.

She said: "People don't realise how much it costs to represent your county and country.

"What with travel, hotel and meals, it becomes quite a strain on finances.

"I've written many letters asking for consideration for sponsorship but without any success.

"So Andy offering to help is wonderful and a weight off my mind. Now I can concentrate on the darts."