PHIL JONES is to retire from his role as Master of Ceremonies with the Professional Darts Corporation after the 2007 Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship.

Phil has been with the PDC for 13 years since making his debut the 1994 World Championship at Purfleet.

Fittingly, he will hang up his microphone in January at the Circus Tavern after the World Championship and is planning to relocate to Las Vegas.

Stan James made a presentation to Phil before the final of the 2006 Stan James World Matchplay, which was his last appearance at the Winter Gardens.

"Phil has become synonymous with PDC tournaments over the last 13 years and it will be a sad occasion on New Year's Day when he introduces a game for the last time," said PDC Tournament Director Tommy Cox.

"He is well-liked and respected by players, officials and fans across the globe, and I'm sure he will be missed by us all."

Phil will be marrying his American fiancee later this year, and is looking forward to working on the SkyBet World Grand Prix and Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship.

"It's been a rollercoaster experience for me over the past 13 years," said Phil. "I've had some ups and some downs but it's been a great adventure.

"I'm delighted and proud to be a part of something which has completely transformed the sport of darts."