Iconic darts duo set to retire after World Championship as statement made

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PDC Master of Ceremonies John McDonald and referee George Noble will retire from darts following the next World Championship, it has been confirmed.

McDonald has worked full-time on PDC tournaments since replacing Phil Jones in 2007, although he had been part of The Showdown in 2004 and the Premier League . He has become a recognisable image as part of the PDC's global circuit, introducing players in his own conceivable style.

A former member of the Parachute Regiment and a news photographer, McDonald started his career as a MC in boxing and has also worked in snooker and pool across the last 30 years.

"I've spent two decades now working with the PDC and loved every moment, but the time is right for me to hang up my microphone," McDonald said.

"The Paddy Power World Darts Championship final will be the perfect place for me to end, as we celebrate the culmination of the biggest-ever event in the sport. I'm so proud to have been a part of the PDC's journey during my time as Master of Ceremonies, and I'll look forward to my remaining events on stage."

Alongside McDonald, vastly experienced referee Noble will also be stepping down after the World Darts Championship. Hugely respected throughout the sport, Noble has spent almost two decades officiating on the PDC circuit, having spearheaded the BDO's refereeing roster before that.

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"I've had a brilliant career in over three decades and spent my whole life in the sport, but the time is right for me to retire from refereeing," Noble said. "I'll still be involved in darts away from refereeing, but this will give me the chance to spend more time with my family in future.

"I'd like to thank the PDC for the opportunity which I was given back in 2007 - the sport has given me so many wonderful memories and opened up so many doors for me throughout my life."

PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter added: “John and George have been two huge pieces in the PDC jigsaw over the last 20 years. John’s iconic voice and delivery, and George’s faultless refereeing have made them an integral part of our events all around the world and they are popular figures wherever we have taken events.