The ninth Frank Irvine Darts Memorial competition will be taking place next month and applications are open for any who believe they can topple James Kempster as champion.

The competition will be held at Castle House Hotel, Walney, on Saturday, August 17, with a midday registration for a 1pm start, and Kempster is sure to have some tough competition as he bids to retain his title, in Ross Rimmer and Chris Irvine to name but two.

During its previous eight years, the competition, which is sponsored by Castle House's Phil Irvine and Len Irvine (no relation), has raised over £3,000 for local charities and individuals and this year's profits will be donated to Macmillan Nurses.

Len Irvine, who set up the tournament in memory of his father Frank, made the decision to donate to them as one of his friends is terminally ill and being looked after by Macmillan.

Registration to enter the singles tournament will cost £6, while it is £4 to enter the blind pairs, which will run alongside the individual event.

The winner will receive £300 plus the annual trophy, and the runner up £100. This is an all-day event with a raffle during the day and a lowest score with six darts competition also being run.

If anyone would like to donate any prizes for the day, they would be greatly appreciated. Contact Len Irvine on 07894 545824 or the Castle House on 01229 471362.