Dutch darts legend Raymond van Barneveld is accustomed to performing in front of TV audiences of millions, but it was a crowd of 250 that greeted him in Kirriemuir Town Hall at the weekend.
The five-time world champion went head to head with Scotland’s number one player Gary Anderson in one of the most eagerly anticipated sports events in the town for years.
A scattering of 20 tables of 10 guests were set up in the venue by events staff from Roods Bar, who co-ordinated the match-up.
In addition to the headline tie, 16 local darts players grabbed an opportunity to go up against two of the best arrow-throwers in the business.
The first eight players drawn out of a hat faced ‘Barney’ himself, while the others pitted themselves against Anderson.
A series of qualifying heats held in Roods every Saturday night led up to the main event, with the top two locals playing a warm-up challenge game on stage.
Guests had the chance to have their photographs taken with the stars and collect souvenir autographs, before a raffle and memorabilia auction was held with the proceeds going to the local Girl Guides, Scouts and Boys’ Brigade.
Van Barneveld (43) was born in The Hague, Netherlands, and in addition to his world titles is two-time UK Open champion.
He is one of only three players in darts history to be world champion five times over and is the most successful Dutch darts player ever.
Photo courtesy of www.photosonlocation.co.uk