Stevie Riggs has become a world youth champion after fearing she'd lose her opening match.

She defeated compatriot Sam Petchey 4-2 in the final of the Winmau Masters at Bridlington, then admitted: "I thought I'd get knocked out in the first round."

Stevie, 16, revealed she was overcome by nerves on the deciding double in front of a 500 crowd and television cameras.

"When I won I had this big beaming smile," she revealed. "I was so happy. It was the best feeling in the world.

"It was double two and I was thinking to myself 'don't mess it up'. Luckily it went in first time."

The Brighton and Hove City College student believes her support group played a vital role.

She said: " My mates always back me. There are some who think it I should be out clubbing more than walking up to the oche but everyone is pleased for me every time I do well.

"My boyfriend Neil and pals were there for me in Bridlington. I'd like to dedicate my victory to them and everyone who has helped me."

Stevie was delighted to complete a Sussex double after Brighton's Martin Brown lifted the boys' crown three years ago.

"It shows that the county has some good young darts players," she added.

She hopes the triumph will be a stepping stone to playing the game professionally.

The former Tideway (Newhaven) pupil said: "My ambition is to be the best I can be in darts and in life. I want to be women's No.1."

Her inspiration is female superstar Trina Gulliver who lifted the senior crown at Bridlington, but she believes the sport needs a higher profile.

"When people think of darts they think of fat, lager-swilling players. but all I sip is Coke. The women's game is not that big but hopefully I can do my bit."

The Super League ace, who plays for Sussex seniors alongside male players, presents an image that the sport hope will attract other youngsters.

Stevie's next goal is to represent England Youth.

She said: "I've got to earn selection by putting in a good average over several tournaments. I'm sure winning the world title will go a long way to helping me get in."

Meanwhile, Engineer (Newhaven) and county teammate Michael Hammond, from Brighton, a medallist in the European Junior Championships and World Youth Cup, lost in the first round of the boys' competition.

Stevie smiled: "I made sure I reminded him of our contrasting tournaments."

The pair were both winners at the Sussex Grand Prix at the Railway Club, Littlehampton.

In the under-21s, Stevie edged out Michaela Dodd (Peacehaven) for the singles title. Hammond secured the under-18s' crown with Robert Metcalfe (Crawley) runner-up.

James Greenfield (Worthing) won the men's under-21s from Dan Godden (Loxwood) while Gareth Thomas (Hastings) triumphed at under-15s with Robert Cross (Edenbridge) second.

Sussex Youth face Dorset in a friendly on November 23.