Betfred World Matchplay darts picture special: The fans are back in Blackpool

The fabulous fans who give the Winter Gardens its unique atmosphere for the world's biggest darts event of the summer are back, with the venue now operating at full capacity.

By Andy Moore

Published 20th Jul 2021, 17:20 BST

Updated 20th Jul 2021, 17:23 BST

Photographer Martin Bostock witnessed this year's party...

1. The World Matchplay was staged behind closed doors in 2020

All pictures: MARTIN BOSTOCK

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2. Last year's World Matchplay at Milton Keynes was the first not to be staged in Blackpool since the championshp was launched in 1994

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3. The players are competing for the Phil Taylor Trophy, honouring the 16-time champion

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4. 32 players contest the World Matchplay each year

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5. Rob Cross was the last winner at Blackpool in 2019

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6. 2020 winner Dimitri Van den Bergh is competing in Blackpool for the first time this year

All pictures: MARTIN BOSTOCK

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Blackpool Winter Gardens