STAFF at a Worcestershire pub have launched a junior darts league to keep youngsters off the streets after dark.

The league, which is one of only three junior darts leagues in the UK, has been set up by Hazel Matthews and Alex Philpot at the Gardeners Arms, Vines Lane, Droit-wich. The scheme has been given the backing of West Mercia police's community support officers.

The league members meet in a previously disused hut at the back of the pub gardens and hold supervised practice sessions on Monday and Tuesday evenings. The sessions are open to children aged from 10 to 17.

The league was launched a few weeks ago but has already attracted more than 30 members. Ms Matthews said: "This outbuilding was lying idle, so when Mr Philpot came up with the suggestion of running a junior league, I was keen to offer the space for the kids to use.

"The interest since we launched has been fantastic.

No parent wants their kids hanging around the streets after school and this givesthem somewhere safe and fun to go with their friends."

There has been wide support for the league, which has received donations of boards and darts from companies including Red Dragon and Darts World and professional players such as Bobby George and Droitwich star Dave Honey. But as the league's membership grows, so does its need for new equipment.

For further information on how you could help support the league call Hazel Matthews at the Gardeners Arms on 01905 772936.