Darts superstars follow boxers into Civic Hall
Released: 6 August 2007
World class sport is topping the bill at Wolverhampton Civic Hall.
Last month the venue hosted a European Light-Welterweight boxing bout, fought out in front of a sell out crowd of 1,560 which was also live on Sky Sports. This was just days after Britain’s top wrestlers took centre stage.
Now preparations are underway for the flagship Wolverhampton City Council facility to host the inaugural Grand Slam of Darts in November which will be live on national television and see 32 superstars of the sport go head to head – including Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor.
Civic Halls manager Mark Blackstock said: “We are pleased that the Civic Hall is playing host to such a huge array of events with a broadening appeal to encompass the needs and tastes of as many of the people of Wolverhampton as we can.”
Marketing manager Crissie Rushton added: “The boxing was live on Sky Sports and the promoters Matchroom are hoping to bring more events to the venue as a result of the success on the night. “Before that, we had welcomed TV crews to cover UK Championship Wrestling and we’re now really looking forward to ITV’s week-long visit in November with the Grand Slam of Darts.”
Tickets for the ground-breaking tournament are already on sale. Among those taking part are current PDC world champion Raymond van Barneveld, 13-time world champion Phil Taylor and 2007 International Darts League winner Gary Anderson, along with stars like John Park, Colin Lloyd, Michael van Gerwen and Jelle Klassen.
PDC chairman Barry Hearn said: “This event promises to be one of the most eagerly-awaited in history. “Interest has been huge in seeing the world’s best players in action at Wolverhampton Civic Hall. The venue has sold out for two Premier League nights previously and I’m sure darts fans from across the country will pack it out once again in November.”
The nine-day event will be broadcast live on ITV1 and ITV4, the first time in a number of years the commercial channel has shown darts.
Director of news and sport Mark Sharman said: “Darts is an enduringly popular sport for television, with wide audience appeal.”
Tickets are £10-£35 available on 0870 320 7000 and the event runs from Saturday, November 17, until Sunday, November 25.
Issued by the press office.