Final work for Grand Slam of Darts underway to get Wolverhampton ready for a bullseye

The final preparations have been made to get a city leisure centre ready to transform into a darting arena full of noise and colour.

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There were work crews from Wolverhampton Council and the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) at Aldersley Stadium putting in the hard hours to get the arena ready for eight days of play.

The sports hall at Aldersley has become the home of the PDC Grand Slam of Darts since the tournament moved there in 2018 and has become a favourite among players for the noise and atmosphere generated on the tables and seats.

The bars are fully stocked with the different beers and other drinks on offer during the week

Ahead of the first session on Saturday, which starts at 1pm, the crews were busy with the final set up of the stage, lights and television cameras, as well as setting out the tables and benches for the arena floor.

It will see more than 20,000 people come to Aldersley during the week to watch the tournament, with many of the sessions already sold out, even as the capacity has been expanded to 1,800 people, and only a few tickets available for some of the mid-week sessions.

Aldersley Stadium is gearing up for a week of darting action

PDC chief executive Matt Porter said he was excited about the tournament, describing it as one the PDC always looked forward to.

He said: “We’re delighted to be back in Wolverhampton, and the Grand Slam of Darts is always one of the highlights of the year.

The previous winners look out over the arena. At least three of them are competing in the 2024 tournament

"It’s encouraging to see fans coming in record numbers to WV Active Aldersley.

"We get great support from Wolverhampton Council and have worked with the venue to increase capacity this year, and we’re excited ahead of one of our annual highlights.

Burgers will also be available for anyone needing a bite to eat

Street Eats have a stall at the Grand Slam

"The 32-player field is full of great talent, and as we’ve seen in recent events there are so many players now challenging for big titles.”

Defending champion and current World Champion Luke Humphries also said he was excited about the tournament and had fond memories of the place.

There will be big screens and lots of lights as part of the show

He said: “I have great memories of playing on this stage. I always enjoy playing at the Grand Slam, and I’m really looking forward to it now.”

Tickets are still available for several of the sessions and can be bought at the PDC Tickets Website.