Hampshire recovered from an early set-back to maintain their unbeaten season and keep on track to win Division 1 of the British Inter County League.

The 36-man and woman squad trailed throughout the early stages of the two-day competition but slowly reeled in their hosts Dorset to claim overall victory in the final game of the weekend.

With three games remaining they are odds on to gain promotion back to the Premiership – the top flight of county darts.

There was little sign of things to come when Clare Cheney won the opening game for the Woman’s B side. However she was the only winner for Hampshire as they went 5-1 behind.

The Men’s B side reduced the deficit with victories from Mick Street, Richie Ford, Conner Bevis, Mike Symes, Mark Budd, Dave Bonnett and Robin Hathaway as Hampshire finished the first day 10-8 down.

Jane Monaghan, Nikki Stevens and Wendy Reinstadtler all won for the Women’s A side to keep Dorset in sight as Hampshire’s men’s first string prepared to toe the oche.

Former World Champion Scott Mitchell hit a 31.20 average to put Dorset three games in front but victories for Steve Phipps, Sam Rooney and Mike Symes took the match to 14-14.

Rare defeats for Gary Stafford and Bradley Kirk put the balance back in Dorset’s favour before Hampshire reeled off three wins on the bounce from Andy Mitchell, Mike Gillet and Danny Pitman.

Steve Musson then won to guarantee at least a draw but a 19-17 victory was secured in the final game by Nillson Pritchard, earning his side three extra bonus points.

Hampshire travel to Cleveland on weekend of March 4/5, entertain Gwent on April 1/2 and head to Cornwall at the end of that month.