ONE of the world’s top darts players and his celebrity girlfriend were on hand to officially open a new Darts Zone in Worcester.

James ‘The Machine’ Wade and Soccer AM’s Helen Chamberlain cut the ribbon at Riley’s, Shrub Hill, on Tuesday night.

It is one of 10 darts venues which are being launched across the country and has six new oches and dart boards with electronic scoring systems. Premier League champion Wade, aged 26, said: “The players have been calling out for something like this for ages. Other clubs need to try and jump on the bandwagon because it will attract people. It can be quite difficult to get a decent game in down the pub as there can be loads of people fighting over the one dart board. People want to play seriously and competitively. There are lots of amateur players out there who have set up their own little premier leagues and venues like this will be ideal places for them to play. It could unearth a future world champion.”

His partner, Helen Chamberlain, 42, said: “Darts is such a great sport and it’s good that it is being made more accessible so everybody can have a go.” Ian Mackenzie from Worcester won a Worcester News’ competition to play Wade and was narrowly beaten by the former World Matchplay and Grand Prix champion.

Mr Mackenzie, who is deaf, said he has thought of turning pro but is worried about giving up his job and thinks his disability may be too much of a disadvantage.

Wade also played reporter James Savage.