Birmingham darts venues hit bullseye as Luke Littler fever reaches city

Birmingham darts venues are about to hit the bullseye as Luke Littler fever spreads across the city. 

The nation was gripped by the 16-year-old’s amazing run in the World Darts Championship, but sadly there was no fairytale ending. 

Schoolboy Luke was beaten in the final by Luke Humphries. In defeat he has sparked a resurgence in the pub game – and city establishments look set to rake in the lolly from the Littler factor. 

Darts has always been big at Rileys Sports Bar, in Solihull. But after Littler’s heroics, the six boards are busier than ever.  Manager Steve Brookes said: “The big difference is that we’re seeing more parents bringing their children in to play. It’s definitely got busier and there a new interest among the younger generation.” 

The 180 Club, in St Paul’s Square – an “underground” darts bar which has previously hosted Prince William and Kate  – is bracing itself for a queue at the oche. 

Assistant general manager Josh Thomson said: “We’ve just come out of Christmas, which is a particularly busy time. Darts’ profile has risen because of the recent television coverage and that will have an effect. People are discovering darts again.” 

The fact that darts is back in the top flight may not just be down to teenage sensation Littler. A spokesperson for the PDC governing body said: “There are big characters in the sport, darts is a predominantly working class sport with working class people and I think that appeals to many. The atmosphere is unique as well, a sort of party atmosphere.”