Benefits probe into darts ace ... as he is blind
A BLIND man who held a charity darts marathon was investigated over benefit fraud – after he scored a perfect 180 with three arrows.
Robert Boon, 50, organised the 10- hour game to pay for two guide dogs in memory of two friends who died recently.
He scored a total of 61,000 points standing and playing on his own, with just a five- minute rest every hour.
But someone at the event became suspicious of his abilities, especially when he scored a maximum 180.
Shortly after the event, he was called to a meeting by the Department for Work and Pensions to assess his eligibility to claim benefits.
He was stunned to discover the member of the public had reported him – claiming someone so good at darts could not possibly be blind.
Accuracy
Robert of Paignton, Devon, said that although he can only see shadows the repetitive action of dart throwing means he can maintain a degree of accuracy.
He said: “I got a letter saying I had to attend a meeting.
“I felt humiliated because I don’t think it is right to report me when I have tried to do something good.
“I rang the hospital to get my medical records on my eye condition. I don’t see why people should put me down. I feel really intimidated now.
“I am registered blind and can’t see virtually anything out of one eye and shadows in the other.
“To be fair when I spoke to the DWP they said they would not be taking the benefits away.
“I have other things lined up now including a comedy night and I don’t intend to stop.”
Robert held the marathon at The Pond Coffee Shop, Paignton, in memory of his friends Mary and Wesley.
The event raised £ 500 towards £ 10,000 to fund the training of two guide dogs who Robert wants to name after his pals.
Robert worked in the hotel business until he was registered blind three years ago. As a child he had very limited eyesight and was banned from playing most sport apart from judo – and darts.
The DWP confirmed that, after an investigation, it does not intend to cut Robert’s benefits. A spokesman said: “It’s only right that we investigate a person’s benefit claim when we receive information that suggests they may not be entitled.”