KIRK Shepherd’s stellar start to 2008 continued as he was named the Professional Darts Corporation’s Young Player of the Year.

The 21-year-old from Ramsgate was presented with the accolade at a glittering bash at London’s Dorchester Hotel on Wednesday night after becoming the youngest ever World Championship finalist at Alexandra Palace on New Year’s Day.

The Young Gun - who is considering a change of nickname to the Martial Dartist in homage to his 2nd dan karate black belt - beat established stars Terry Jenkins, Peter Manley and Wayne Mardle before bowing out in the final to Canadian John Part.

The qualifier jumped more than 100 places up to world number 22 thanks to his inspired run and earned £50,000 for reaching the final.