TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved Worcester man who was a “stalwart” of the city darts scene.

A fundraising event in memory of Jason Knight has been organised, with more than a hundred people expected to attend.

The 47-year-old was a life-long darts fan and player, turning out for numerous pubs across Worcester including The Saracen’s Head, The New Inn and, for the last three years, The Bridge Inn.

Lloyd Cox, the pub’s landlord, said: “He became a close friend. The moment we reopened the doors on the pub, three-and-a-half years ago, Jason was one of the first customers through the door, offering us our first darts team.

“Since then he has been the inspiration behind building the pub as a darts venue and encouraging all new, existing, young and old players to play darts and in improving their games.

“He was a larger than life character - fiercely competitive but (outside of competition) was popular and well respected.

“When people were thinking of quitting darts he was the one to help them love darts again.

“He was a very good player, he hit hundreds of 180s – I have heard it said he could have gone professional.

“He will be sorely missed by everybody.”

Mr Knight had played county level and had always dreamed of playing on stage at one of the major tournaments.

Just a few years ago he had the chance to play world champions Phil 'The Power' Taylor and Gary Anderson at a charity event held at Worcester Warrior's Sixways stadium, and took legs off both of them.

Darrell Butler, the chairman of the Worcester Darts League, said: “Jason was an avid supporter of the Dart’s League and so many of the players in it, being a committee member for a number of years.

“In honour of him, the knockout cup will be renamed The Jason Knight Trophy.”

Tributes have also been left on his Facebook page. Richard Finch wrote: “What an absolute gent of a man. Gone but definitely never forgotten, rest in peace.”

And Gail Evans said: “So sad to hear the news about Jason Knight, RIP”.

The Bridge Inn in Lowesmoor is holding the commemorative night in his memory from 7.30pm tomorrow (Friday, December 20). Money raised will go to the family to help with funeral costs.

Mr Cox added: “The family are looking for everybody that knew him, played darts with and against him, the wider darts fraternity and his friends to attend so they can give him the send off he truly deserves.”

Mr Knight, who lived in Warndon, is survived by his mum Brenda, son, sister and wider family.

He died of a suspected heart attack, his family said.

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