Liverpool has always been a city with a strong sporting heartbeat, and a new darts initiative is starting to draw attention across the region.
Prospect Darts, created earlier this year by local darts fan Jonathan Liddle, is quickly becoming one of the most exciting grassroots projects in Merseyside.
The idea behind it is simple. Take everything people love about professional darts, including the stage lights, walk-on music, referee calls and even cheerleaders, and hand that full experience to players who would never normally get the chance.
“I wanted to build something that made every participant feel like a star for the night,” says founder Liddle.
“Everyone sees the pros on TV and dreams of walking out to their own song, hearing their name called and performing under pressure. Why shouldn’t everyday players get that opportunity too?”
There is one big rule. To keep things fair, professional and semi-professional players are not allowed to compete. Prospect Darts is for amateurs only. Office workers, students, builders, shop staff and pub regulars all get an equal chance to shine.
“We’re not trying to find the next world champion,” Liddle adds. “We’re trying to give people a night they will remember forever.”
The venture launched with its first event earlier this year and the response was overwhelmingly positive.
Four qualifying weeks brought dozens of hopefuls fighting for a place on the finals night stage. The grand final produced drama worthy of Ally Pally, with a 170 checkout, big comebacks, and Joshua O’Sullivan taking the title in a tight 3–2 finish.
“The atmosphere was unbelievable,” O’Sullivan said afterwards. “It felt like being in a TV major, but with all my friends and family in the crowd. I’ll never forget it.”
Prospect Darts is now building on that early momentum with a Christmas Special, and qualifying rounds for the big night are already underway.
Gustav Tandy shows his emotions as he books his spot in Prospect Darts finals night 🏆 pic.twitter.com/q9QPG0MZYE
— Scouse Sport House (@SHSLive_) November 21, 2025
Last night saw locals Ellis Hancock and Gustav Tandy book their places on the finals night line-up. With two qualifiers still to come, the field is shaping up to be strong despite the player pool being filled with unknown amateurs.
Liddle says this is only the start: “We’ve tapped into something people really want, which is a pro-style experience without the pressure of being a real pro.
“The support has been incredible, and the people have taken to it straight away. We are already planning to expand in 2026.”
Prospect Darts is quickly becoming one of the standout grassroots stories of the year. It brings people together, makes the sport more accessible and puts the spotlight on the everyday players who help keep darts alive.
Whether you are a regular at the oche, a casual fan or just someone who loves a big night out, one thing stands out. Prospect Darts is not just an event. It is an experience, and it is growing fast.
