ST HELENS' world sporting champions were given a civic reception at the town hall this evening (Monday). 

World Darts champion Michael Smith, who triumphed at the Alexandra Palace in January, and the Saints squad, who were crowned World Club Champions in February, were recognised at the town hall event for their achievements.

 

Smith defeated Michael van Gerwen 7-4 and landed a memorable 'perfect' nine-dart leg in the world darts final.

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Meanwhile, Lewis Dodd's dramatic 'Golden Point' drop-goal gave Saints a historic World Club Challenge triumph against back-to-back NRL premiers Penrith Panthers Down Under.

 

Meanwhile, teenager Eleanor Cairns, who won the inaugural L-style WDF Girls World Championship in darts at the Lakeside last year, and Michael Callaghan, whose win at the Isle of Man Darts this year put him to world number one in disability darts, were also invited to the town hall for their achievements to be celebrated.

During the civic reception, St Helens-born commentator Stuart Pyke greeted guests and dignitaries and, after a welcome by mayor Cllr Sue Murphy, invited Michael Smith to the stage.

 

Saints' chairman Eamonn McManus, coach Paul Wellens and captain James Roby then also spoke in front of attendees.

 

During the evening, St Helens Darts Academy performed an exhibition.

Then Eleanor took on Saints coach Paul Wellens and also played against Michael Callaghan.

 

Meanwhile, Michael also played a leg against Saints prop Alex Walmsley.

St Helens Star: Michael Callaghan and Alex Walmsley go head to headMichael Callaghan and Alex Walmsley go head to head (Image: St Helens Star)

Singer Jack Bennett also entertained the guests with live music.  

St Helens Star: The World Darts Championship Sid Waddell Trophy and the Rugby League World Club Challenge trophy proudly on show at the town hallThe World Darts Championship Sid Waddell Trophy and the Rugby League World Club Challenge trophy proudly on show at the town hall (Image: St Helens Star)