Back to Latest News

John Murphy, team captain of The Ash Tree in Spennymore, beat Gary Anderson, current Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) World Champion, in a darts event organised by Punch.

John and his darts team received the opportunity to play against Gary after winning the Punch Darts Classic last year. The Ash Tree came out top in a fierce field, with over 900 teams entering the competition. As well as winning £2,500 they were given the priceless opportunity to play darts against reigning PDC World Champion, Gary Anderson, at a World Matchplay Darts event held in Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.

John Murphy, publican at The Ash Tree, said: “I thoroughly enjoy playing in Punch’s Darts Classic event, it is a great competition and lots of fun for everyone who takes part. Last year was the second time we won (and the second time I then beat Gary in our prize event!) so I can’t wait to see the outcome of this year’s competition.”

John Healy, Commercial Director at Punch, added: “Our annual darts competition is also a big hit with our Publicans and customers alike. It’s a great opportunity for Publicans to drive footfall while organising an event that puts them at the heart of the local community. It’s the biggest competition of its kind in the world and we’re looking forward to seeing who wins this year!”

Related Articles

Posted: 2025/07/07

Punch Pubs & Co. triumphs in community clean


Industry-leading pub company Punch Pubs & Co. has completed another clean-up campaign, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to protecting people, the...


Read More

Posted: 2025/07/07

The Red Lion Pub thrives following mammoth £397k investment


After a six-week transformation and a £397k investment, the Red Lion in Lowton has roared back to life, welcoming locals...


Read More

Posted: 2025/06/25

The King Alfred’s Head, Wantage, reopens following huge investment


The King Alfred’s Head in Market Place, Wantage, reopened this April following an extensive investment with leading pub company Punch...


Read More

Posted: 2025/06/24

Exciting transformation is underway at The Fox pub in Bar Hill, Cambridge


The Fox pub in the village of Bar Hill, Cambridge, has temporarily closed its doors to make way for a...


Read More
Punch Pubs
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.