WORLD darts champion John Part will be making a rare apparance in East Lancashire next week and local enthusiasts are being given the chance to take him on.

The surprise winner of the PDC championships will be putting his reputation on the line at The Park, Manchester Road, Accrington on Thursday.

Part will be be throwing for 1001 against 16 local darts players on a night that could spring a few surprises for the Canadian.

The Park's own darts team - which won the exhibition at a Scottish and Newcastle competition earlier this year - has taken eight places.

As landlord Mick Stacey explained, a further four were grabbed during a pub knockout, leaving just four places at the ockey.

"We will be having a final knockout at The Park on Wednesday September 3 and the last four darters left in the competition will be able to throw against John Part the following night," he said.

"The Park is very much a community pub and having a world champion appearing here will certainly make it a night to remember.

"Our own locals are putting in a lot of much-needed practice for the exhibition and I hope we will be able to attract other darts players who will be able to give John Part a game.

"We are also hoping for a big crowd on the big night to see if anyone can wipe the smile off the champion."

Anyone wanting to enter the final knockout on Wednesday, September 3, for a chance to play against John Part should contact Mick Stacey on 01254-237043 or turn up on the night before 8pm.