Play in the 2004 Stubbington Ark Hampshire Darts Open gets underway a week today.

Organisers have completed the exciting preliminary and first round draw which can be viewed online, writes Clive Downton.

The competition, being staged once more at Southampton’s Novotel, has a new sponsor in the Stubbington Ark animal shelter who will have staff on site to spread the message of their vital work.

The animal rescue and welfare organisation is using the Hampshire Open’s popularity to spread the word of its work and to raise funds for its latest project – Paws4Help.

For more than 25 years the Stubbington Ark (RSPCA Solent Branch) Animal Shelter in Fareham has served the community, taking in and re-homing abandoned animals over a 400-square mile radius in Hampshire.

Joint open tournament director Frank Branscombe, of the Hampshire Darts Organisation, said people can still get involved, even though entries are no longer being taken.

“If you like darts it really is worth coming down and watching,” he said.

“Play gets underway around 11am and it is non-stop action from then until early evening when a special board is set up to stage the final.

“The Hampshire Open has always produced quality darts and this year is no different, so, if you enjoy watching darts come down and see what it is all about. I’m sure it will make you want to join in next year.”

Whatever happens at the Novotel there is sure to be a new name on the trophy as current champion Scott Mitchell is busy trying to collect world ranking points in the German Open.

For Hampshire Open full draw go to: dailyecho.co.uk/sport/11127814.Hampshire_Darts_Open_returns/

 

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