Evening Press darts correspondent Dave Fotheringham is running a night school class for people who want to sharpen up their darts.

All aspects of the sport will be covered, including video presentations, darts' rules, chalking up, and organisation.

And there will also be plenty of practical expertise on the oche, said Fotheringham, who is keen to apply the techniques of the world's darts-masters like Phil Taylor to local players.

"This is the first time this has happened and it is in response to bringing a more professional coaching attitude to the sport," he added.

"Over the years I have analysed the techniques used by the top players. There are three or four things that they all do, that local amateur players do not.

"And as well as the theory there will be plenty of practice and I am hoping to arrange an exhibition game."

The darts course will be held at the Clifton Community Education Centre, at Canon Lee School, and is among an extensive 20-plus selection.

The sessions will be run on Tuesday evenings starting from January 30 and are open to either sex over 16 years of age. Sessions should not clash with Tuesday league darts match times.

Would-be course takers can still enrol up until January 30 and even on the first night of the course, added Fotheringham.

Updated: 11:40 Tuesday, January 16, 2001