Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Alan is a darts Diamond
Airdrie Masters to benefit Trust
A Diamond with a heart of gold is combining his love of Airdrieonians with his passion for darts to create the first Airdrie Masters tournament.
Despite a debilitating spinal injury, Alan Stirling has worked tirelessly to ensure some of the top names from the world of darts arrive in Airdrie later this month for the first ever Masters exhibition in the town’s working men’s club on Broomknoll Street.
Sky Sports pundit Wayne Mardle, former major winner Peter Manley, former PDC World Championship star Terry Jenkins, and Scottish chucker Derek Cunningham have all been confirmed for the tournament on Sunday, April 29.
And kind-hearted Alan, who is confined to a wheelchair, says the proceeds will benefit Airdrieonians Supporters’ Trust.
The 48-year-old, who also has Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease ( COPD), admits he can be fatigued at times because of his conditions – but remains upbeat because of the positive impact the forthcoming exhibition is having.
He told the Advertiser: “Two of the things that keep me going is my love of darts and my love of Airdrie Football Club.
“I’m a massive darts fan. With my condition, it’s difficult for me to get out. You’ve got to involve yourself in things you’re passionate about.
“I wanted to help out with the Trust and I’m really grateful that they have backed me and allowed me to do this.
“I know what to expect from this condition and I know what I experience every day but I can’t allow myself to get down.”
Explaining the planning involved in the exhibition, Alan continued: “With the way the darts calendar is I had to think about who I could get.
“I thought if I could get Wayne Mardle, with his appearances on TV, it would be a big coup.
“Because it is charitable, Wayne was happy to book in.
“I have met Peter Manley a few times and he is a fantastic bloke. He can be a bit of a show-off and have a laugh with the fans. He will be great entertainment.”
Alan went on: “Terry Jenkins has just come off the PDC tour and I was delighted that I managed to get in contact with him. And, of course, Derek is a stalwart of the local darts scene.
“Now I just need to make sure everything runs smoothly, but I’m really looking forward to it.”
Alan hopes to see a big turnout for the event – raising thousands for the club he loves in the process.
He added: “It’s not just for darts fans. It will be an event for all the family.
“Exhibitions are a bit different from what you see on TV, and the players will often come out and talk to the fans.”