Walk-on girls check out

DARTS has sensationally axed walk-on girls from TV events.

The shock move by the Professional Darts Corporation, the sport’s governing body, began with the Unibet Masters in Milton Keynes last night.

Players’ escorts have become a regular part of the razzmatazz of the sport, with the girls accompanying players to the oche before a match. Eight-times major winner James Wade even married his walk-on girl Sammi Marsh three years ago.

Daniella Allfree, who walked on with Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor in his final appearance at the Ally Pally on New Year’s Day, tweeted: “Had the best 6 years working for @ officialPDC. Loved every minute of being a walk on girl and will miss the darts family so much.”

Although the decision has come in the week of the Presidents Club scandal, discussions had initially taken place last year.

The move has ended a tradition stretching back more than a decade in the belief it is incompatible with family viewing.

The PDC said: “We regularly

review all aspects of our events and this move has been made following feedback from our host broadcasters.”

Last night, over 2,000 fans had signed a petition to save the walk-on girls, and five-times world champion Raymond van Barneveld was among the first to back it.

He said: “For me they are a part of the darts. Sign their petition so hopefully they can keep their jobs.”

The Masters, anchored by Jacqui Oatley, is being shown on ITV4 this weekend.

Sky Sports, who have Laura Woods assigned to post-match interviews, have the rights to the Premier League and the World Championship.

The BBC have never used walk-on girls during their two years covering the Champions League.

An ITV spokesman said: “The decision was taken in consultation with ITV and we fully endorse the move.”

However, it seems the dancing girls on stage will remain when the Premier League season opens in Dublin next Thursday.