ENGLAND captain Scott Mitchell insisted it was a priceless feeling to represent his country – even if it had cost him a considerable sum.

The 48-year-old is set to lead an England side hoping to maintain their impressive record in the Six Nations Cup which begins in Selsey tomorrow.

Bransgore thrower Mitchell does not earn a penny for his international exploits but cherishes the memories of representing his country for the past 10 years.

He treasures his first England shirt and keeps it in his wardrobe at home, although he paid £250 for the privilege.

Mitchell told the Daily Echo: “I remember being in tears when I was handed my first England shirt.

“It was still in its cellophane and the manager said ‘congratulations Scott, you have reached the pinnacle of team darts in playing for your country’.

“It’s hung in the wardrobe, although, I thought I was being clever – I actually gave the shirt away.

“I got it signed by every player in the England ladies’ and men’s teams and gave it to Dorset Youth to raise funds for their travel at the time.

“It was one of those things where you think you are doing the right thing with a lovely gesture and about a week before I thought ‘why have I given away my first England shirt?’.

“Before the auction I decided I really wanted it back so I ended up having to buy it back for a huge amount of money.

“I didn’t like not having it, so I had to buy it. I think it cost me about £250 to get it back and I had to do a silent bid on the day. I was pretty anxious because I couldn’t go!"

Mitchell has been part of the England team which has won the Six Nations for the past four years.

The hosts will be aiming to see off the Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

He added: “You are not playing for a penny with England. Lots of players get motivated by playing for money and that’s when they play their best.

“When they put on an England shirt, because it’s not financially rewarding, sometimes they don’t play their best. That’s not me being rude, it’s just some people play better that way.

“I am probably the other way, which is why I have been part of the England set-up for 10 years. It’s all about trying to win for me rather than the financial side of it.

“If you need firing up to play then you are the wrong person for the job. As soon as you put the England shirt on, it should be the motivation.

“I still have to pinch myself now to think I am still doing it and am playing well enough to keep my place, let alone be captain.”

Scotty Dog will lead a five-man team featuring Dennis Harbour, Mark McGeeney and debutants Nigel Heydon and Daniel Day.