Plymouth's best darts players all set for 2025 Champion of Champions competition

GIVEN only six men have received the Champion of Champions trophy since 2011, arguably the most difficult darting title to win in Plymouth darts has its opening night this coming Sunday.

- By JAMES COOK Darts correspondent

The most prolific winner, seven-time champion Simon Stevenson, begins his attempt to become the first player to win three times in a row at the Fawn in the preliminary round on Sunday.

The charity event is raising money for Spring Intensive Care, who raise much-needed funds for the two ICU wards at Derriford Hospital, all in the name of Sandie Cook, who was a recent long-term patient of the unit.

The top class talent at the venue includes two former semifinalists in Danny Bull and Lee Roberts, whilst Alfie Ford, Scott Lawrey and Sean Taylor all have finals night pedigree.

Champion back in 1996, Ralph Lancaster will also take his bow in the preliminary stage, beginning his most recent attempt at a second crown at the Indian Inn, amongst several dangerous players.

The 2013 winner, Dan Johnson, also enters at the same venue, whilst Mark Shears, a former finalist, is another noteworthy name that will prove a tough test should Lancaster face them in the draw.