GARY ANDERSON has received further recognition of his William Hill World Darts Championship triumph after being congratulated by Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
Anderson wrote his name into the history books by retaining the World Championship title at Alexandra Palace, defeating Adrian Lewis 7-5 in the final to record back-to-back wins.
The achievement saw him match Lewis, Eric Bristow and Raymond van Barneveld as one of only four players to retain their first World Championship title.
He also joined an elite band of players in the history of darts to become a multiple World Champion - including Scotland's own Jocky Wilson, who won the 1982 and 1989.
Anderson's World Championship triumph has been recognised by the Rt Hon Nicola Sturgeon MSP, the First Minister for Scotland who has written to congratulate the 45-year-old on his success.
The letter read:
Dear Gary
To become a World Champion in any sport is a great achievement, to do it more than once is special but to do it back-to-back is something which can only be done by a true great.
Your achievement at the Alexandra Palace on Sunday in the final of the PDC World Championship has marked you in the record books as one of the world's best to have ever taken up the sport.
Scotland has a long tradition of top class Darts players. I'm sure growing up watching the late Jocky Wilson inspired you to take up the sport just as your achievements will inspire the next generation to step up to the Oche.
I wish you well for 2016 and look forward to seeing you hopefully defend your title in twelve months time.
With my congratulations and best wishes
Nicola
Speaking of the letter, Anderson told the Daily Record: "It is nice to recognised at any time, but to be recognised for a second year by the Scottish Government is wonderful.
“As everyone knows, I am a proud Scot and knowing the people in my country are proud of me doing something makes the hard work worthwhile.”