The Isle of Man’s Department of Economic Development is pleased to announce that it will again be supporting the Isle of Man International Darts Festival. Next year’s event will take place at the Villa Marina, Douglas, Isle of Man 10-13 March 2016.

The Festival attracts players from around the world, who are in the pursuit of the British Darts Organisation (BDO) category A+ ranking points in the men’s and ladies’ main events. The ranking points are highly valued on the road to the BBC2-televised World Finals at the Lakeside Country Club, Surrey, UK. The essence of the Festival is a mix of serious competition and fun atmosphere. As an open competition, there is always the opportunity for the grassroots darter to play against or even topple one of their heroes.

The event was previously run by Les France from L.F. Promotions. Mr David Cretney MLC, the Department’s political member responsible for Tourism said:

‘I would like to put on record my personal thanks to Les France and his team for the enormous pleasure the event has brought to darts fans and players. I’d like to wish those taking part in the 2016 competitions the best of luck.’

Following a competitive tender process the organiser of the 2016 Festival will be the England Darts Organisation (EDO).

New promoter Howard Miller from the EDO organising team said:

‘Anticipation is already growing ahead of the 2016 event. We are looking forward to working with the Isle of Man to build on the firm foundations the Festival already has.

‘We are also pleased to announce that PokerStars, the world’s most popular online poker site, will be the title sponsor of the 2016 International Darts Festival.’

Eric Hollreiser, Director of Corporate Communications at PokerStars said:

‘PokerStars is a big fan of open competition - the best in the game competes alongside recreational players and beginners, and everyone is welcome.

‘Darts has a surprising affinity with poker – both take much dedication and practice, and both are adrenaline-infused, intense and very entertaining. As the event’s title sponsor, we’re really looking forward to the arrival of hundreds of passionate darts players and fans to the Island.’

You can keep up-to-date with the latest Festival news on the Isle of Man Darts Festival Facebook page.