Witney's Ian Moss is one step away from taking on legend Phil Taylor in the PDC Ladbrokes World Darts Championships at Alexandra Palace, London which start on December 13.

The 50-year-old former Oxfordshire player will face New Zealand Champ-ionship winner Rob Szabo in the preliminary round for the chance to take on the reigning champion, but the prospect holds little fear for him.

“I don’t mind who I have to play,” he said. “I’ve always loved playing against the big boys and I’m looking forward to the chance.

“I always enjoy it, no matter what the result.

“I’d like to think I can go three rounds and maybe cause a couple of upsets.

“But I like to think that I’m in it now so I’ve given myself a chance of winning it and I will go into every match looking to win.”

Moss, who plays for Izi’s Bar in Witney, will be appearing for the first time at the Championships after qualifying in second place from a field of 116 in last week’s PDPA Qualifier in Barnsley.

He admitted it was a huge opportunity. “It’s just a dream come true,” said Moss.

“All I’ve wanted since I was a kid is to be a professional darts player and now I’ve qualified for the World Darts Championships.

“The last week I’ve just been flying and it’s been difficult to come down and concentrate on work.

“It still hasn’t sunk in and I’m not sure it will until I get to Alexandra Palace.”