It was a respectable affair at 5-5, but the world number nine, who hails from Stockport, ran riot in the final 14 legs.

Aspinall claimed all but one and notched up 11 in a row at the Winter Gardens before Clayton clawed one back.

On his way to victory, 'the Asp' hit a 115, 110, two 108s and 'the big fish'.

Winning the World Matchplay darts final has earned the Englishman a £200,000 prize, while Clayton will pick up £100,000 as runner-up.

Speaking to Sky Sports afterwards, Aspinall said: "I walked off at 5-5 and hadn't hit a 180, but I just found my game. Jonny told me I was playing really well.

"I think that third session when I went from 5-5 to 10-5, was key.

"This is my local tournament, I'm 40 minutes away from here and I just want to thank the crowd for their support - not just for me, but for all the guys. It has been incredible."