'˜Flying Scotsman' set for St Andrews contest

For Gary Anderson, the reigning Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) World Darts champion and and one of the biggest names in sport - whose nickname just happens to be the same as that of the famous locomotive - is coming to St Andrews in December.

The 45-year-old professional from Eyemouth in the Scottish Borders, is to head a team competing in this year’s St Andrews Masters competition, to be held at the University of St Andrews students union building.

And as a bonus for darts fans, Gary will be competing against fellow big name professional James Wade, the third most successful player in PDC history, after Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen.

“It’s a huge coup not just for St Andrews,but for Fife sport as a whole,” said Laura Brand, who alongside husband Martin has organised the annual Masters event since 2004.

“We’ve been lucky to have attracted some big name players in the past including Bobby George, but to have the reigning world champion headlining the event is something extra special.”

The competition will consist of six qualifying rounds which will culminate in a champions final which the organisers say will allow darts fans the chance to witness their heroes up close in a unique setting.

“It’s a smaller, more intimate venue compared to some of the big televised darts events you see these days but we see that as an added attraction, the atmosphere will be just the same,” said Laura.

The event follows a surge in popularity for darts in the Kingdom in recent years. Only last month hundreds of fans descended on Glenrothes for the BDO British International Darts Championships, which also provided a welcomed boost in trade for local retailers and hoteliers.

Tickets went on sale this week and can be obtained from the students union building or by contacting Martin on 07976 016740.