Two keen darts players have set themselves a New Year challenge to hit a treble – that’s three months without alcohol and takeaways – and it’s all to raise funds to fight back against meningitis
Darren Bentley and Fergal Hughes from Bolton hope to raise £2,000 towards our ongoing work from the challenge, which began on New Year’s Day. The pair have vowed not to touch a drop of alcohol or crack a poppadom until the 1st of April.
Both players regularly turn out for Pat’s Lads and have admitted they will not find the challenge easy.
Darren told his local paper, “It’s going to be a nightmare. I’ve done it for one month before but not three."
Steady the nerves
“I think it will affect the way I play at first – most players need one drink to steady the nerves.”
Over the next three months the pair have 12 matches and some competitions but Darren is committed to the challenge. “I’m not being branded a failure,” he added. “I know it’s going to be hard but once you’ve committed, you’ve committed.”
Family, friends and team-mates are all getting behind their efforts. As local league secretary, Darren has been able to make all his matches over the next few months away matches, so he’ll be driving team-mates to them. “I’ve said if everyone gives me £2 a time all the money will go towards it.”
Family links to meningitis
Darren is keen to raise awareness and funds because of family links to meningitis – his cousin Cara’s daughter Mia is still recovering from meningitis and his wife Rebecca saw her cousin Clare lose her daughter Orlagh to the disease at the age of only 21 months.
Rebecca said, “Please sponsor them so we can raise money to help Meningitis Now support people affected by this horrendous disease and to fund research to achieve a future where meningitis is no longer a threat.”
To donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/darrenandfergal
Fundraising evening
Darren and Fergal are also holding a fundraising evening on 24 February at Farnworth Cricket Club in association with Bolton Wado Ryu Karate and Bolton Triple D Darts. There will be lots going on, including a karate break of 300 roof tiles and demonstrations by black belt instructors, alongside a raffle and a disco. If you’re in the area and fancy a fun and social way to support them, why not go along? All money raised will support our work.
Many thanks both, and good luck with your challenge.
