Bristol's Most Improved Darts Players – Last 100 Legs Analysis

 

Darts is often measured by trophies, titles and tournament victories.

But improvement is just as important.

With that in mind, I wanted to take a different approach and identify the players making the biggest strides in their game across the Bristol darts scene.

This report covers players competing within approximately 50 miles of Bristol and includes only those who have played at least six events and recorded at least 100 legs. Those requirements ensure that the rankings reward sustained progress rather than a single standout performance.

To calculate improvement, I compared each player's most recent 50 recorded legs with the 50 legs immediately before them. The percentage increase between those two periods determines their ranking.

The results highlight players from every level of the game. Some are newer players finding consistency, while others are already producing strong darts and continuing to raise their standards.

Topping the list is Christopher Willcocks. His average increased from 51.47 to 60.40 across his most recent 50-leg sample, representing an impressive 17.35% improvement.

Natalie Baxter sits second after improving from 44.38 to 50.54 (+13.88%), narrowly ahead of SKITZ 007, whose average rose from 61.20 to 69.69 (+13.87%).

One of the standout performances in the report belongs to Gary Hiscock. Already operating at a very high level, Gary improved from 73.26 to 83.10, an increase of nearly 10 points per three darts. Improving at that level is exceptionally difficult and deserves special recognition.

The rankings also demonstrate that progress can be found throughout the grassroots game. Players averaging in the 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond all feature prominently, showing that improvement is possible regardless of current ability.

These rankings are not intended to identify the best player in Bristol. Instead, they celebrate development, commitment and the steady gains that ultimately make players stronger competitors.

After all, darts is often a game of small improvements repeated consistently over time.

Top 20 Most Improved Players

Rank	Player	Previous 50	Latest 50	Improvement
1	Christopher Willcocks	51.47	60.40	17.35%
2	Natalie Baxter	44.38	50.54	13.88%
3	SKITZ 007	61.20	69.69	13.87%
4	Sam Leitch	43.27	49.16	13.61%
5	Gary Hiscock	73.26	83.10	13.43%
6	Alfie Taylor	46.43	52.30	12.64%
7	Kieran McCormick	47.26	53.14	12.44%
8	Owen Smith	62.97	70.75	12.36%
9	Joel Hughes	59.44	66.19	11.36%
10	James Pryer	50.15	55.79	11.25%
11	Arnold Szasz	43.18	47.96	11.07%
12	Harry Swann	42.49	47.00	10.61%
13	Robin Hardy	57.02	63.06	10.59%
14	Todd Marfell	55.88	61.80	10.59%
15	Brad Morgan	58.22	64.32	10.48%
16	Brooklyn Anthony	62.04	68.28	10.06%
17	Kobi Wilkinson	45.86	50.35	9.79%
18	Kieran Thomas	52.99	58.14	9.72%
19	Reece Harding	53.69	58.90	9.70%

20       Jeol Farrell-Humphreys         52.79        57.87 5           9.62 

South & South West Darts Round-Up – 8 June 2026

 

Another busy evening of grassroots darts across the South and South West saw titles decided across open, ladies and veterans events.

At Southwick Sports Club, Ronnie Sumner claimed the opening Vault Break title after defeating William Woolnough in the final. Sumner also produced one of the standout performances of the evening with a 93.94 average.

The Ladies Knockout was won by Sarah Roberts, who enjoyed an excellent night with nine victories and the highest average of the competition. Roberts defeated Emma Hayward in the final to secure the title.

In the Thrive To Survive U65 Division 1 competition, Logun Godbeer emerged victorious after a hard-fought final against John Maggs. Godbeer recorded seven wins on the night during a strong overall performance.

The U65 Average Round Robin title went to Freddie Scratchley, who defeated Craig Britten in the final after a consistent evening's work.

One of the biggest averages from the region came courtesy of Stuart Dutton, who fired a superb 98.02 average during his victory at the Riverside Club in Wycombe.

Standout Performances

🔥 Stuart Dutton – 98.02

🏆 Ronnie Sumner – Southwick Champion

🏆 Sarah Roberts – Ladies Champion

🎯 Logun Godbeer – U65 Champion

🎯 Freddie Scratchley – U65 Champion

Four Players in the South West of England Making Their Mark

 I thought I'd give you the player profiles of four players in the South West of England that are having a successful 2026 - all of them have are close to the top of their game. 

Geoff James – Consistency Meets Scoring Power

Ranked #690 in the Q4QS Rankings, Geoff James has built an impressive record through a combination of consistency, winning habits and the ability to produce standout performances when it matters most.

The numbers speak for themselves. Geoff has already collected 12 tournament victories while maintaining an outstanding 82.5% win rate across 234 recorded matches. Those figures place him among the more successful players currently competing within the Q4QS database.

While consistency is one of his greatest strengths, Geoff's scoring ability is equally impressive. His season-best average of 107.36 demonstrates a level of performance that very few grassroots players achieve. When Geoff finds his rhythm, he is capable of producing averages that would be respected at any level of the game.

His current average of 79.06 reflects the high standard he maintains throughout the season, while his continued success across multiple events shows his ability to perform under pressure.

As the 2026 season progresses, Geoff remains one of the players to watch and a name that regularly appears near the top end of tournament results across the region.

2026 Q4QS Stats

🏅 Q4QS Rank: #690

🎯 Matches Played: 234

🏆 Tournament Wins: 12

📈 Win Rate: 82.5%

🎯 Current Average: 79.06

💯 Season Best Average: 107.36

Whether it's consistency, winning tournaments or producing big averages, Geoff James continues to make his mark on the South West darts scene.

Iain Howie – Turning Consistency Into Results

Some players produce occasional big performances. Others consistently put themselves in contention week after week. Iain Howie belongs firmly in the second category.

Currently ranked #972 in the Q4QS Rankings, Iain has built an impressive record during 2026, winning 84.4% of his matches and collecting 11 tournament victories along the way.

His season-best average of 100.20 proves he possesses the scoring power to compete with the very best players on any given day. Combined with a current average of 76.03, it paints the picture of a player capable of delivering both quality and consistency.

As the season progresses, Iain continues to be one of the most reliable performers in the South West darts scene and a player who regularly features in the latter stages of events.

2026 Stats

🏅 Q4QS Rank: #972

🎯 Matches Played: 224

🏆 Tournament Wins: 11

📈 Win Rate: 84.4%

🎯 Current Average: 76.03

💯 Season Best Average: 100.20

Steve Boundy – Experience, Activity and Success

One of the most active players in the Q4QS database, Steve Boundy continues to demonstrate why consistency over time is one of the most valuable assets in darts.

Ranked #1042, Steve has recorded an incredible 627 matches and collected 29 tournament victories during his time in the database. Those numbers alone show a player who regularly competes and regularly wins.

With a win percentage of 78.8% and a season-best average of 98.72, Steve combines experience with proven quality. Few players can match his volume of play while maintaining such impressive results.

His record makes him one of the standout performers in the South West grassroots scene.

2026 Stats

🏅 Q4QS Rank: #1042

🎯 Matches Played: 627

🏆 Tournament Wins: 29

📈 Win Rate: 78.8%

🎯 Current Average: 71.73

💯 Season Best Average: 98.72

Andy Steed – A Proven Winner

Andy Steed has built a reputation as one of the most dependable competitors on the South West circuit.

Currently ranked #1065 in the Q4QS Rankings, Andy boasts an impressive 80.6% win rate and has already secured 19 tournament victories.

His season-best average of 103.66 highlights the scoring power that sits behind those results. When Andy finds his rhythm, he is capable of producing performances that can challenge anyone in the field.

With nearly 400 matches played and a current average of 75.22, he continues to combine consistency, experience and quality in equal measure.

2026 Stats

🏅 Q4QS Rank: #1065

🎯 Matches Played: 396

🏆 Tournament Wins: 19

📈 Win Rate: 80.6%

🎯 Current Average: 75.22

💯 Season Best Average: 103.66

South & South West Darts Round-Up: Big Numbers Across The Region (7th June 2026)

 

Sunday produced another busy day of grassroots darts across the South and South West, with strong performances appearing across multiple venues.

In Taunton, Jack Walker lifted the Vault 17 title after defeating Brooklyn Anthony 3-2 in the final. The event also saw C-Jay Pipe fire a superb 93.94 average, while Bailey White added a 91.09 average.

Over in Gloucester, Shaun Vernall claimed the title at The Treddy. Although Vernall took the trophy, some of the biggest averages came from Curtis Greenwood (100.20), Andy Hammond (93.94) and Iain Howie (91.09).

At Kentisbeare, Dean Brown enjoyed a perfect day, winning the event and producing a 93.94 average during his run to the title.

Meanwhile in Christchurch, Tom Crocker took the honours, while Rob Crocker produced the highest average of the day with a brilliant 100.20 average.

Elsewhere, Luke Stallwood won Danny's Open, defeating Luke Peacock 5-1 in the final after another strong day's work.

South & South West Standout Performances

🎯 Curtis Greenwood – 100.20

🎯 Rob Crocker – 100.20

🎯 Dean Brown – 93.94

🎯 C-Jay Pipe – 93.94

🎯 Andy Hammond – 93.94

Another excellent day's action across the region with multiple players breaking through the 90-average barrier and two ton-plus performances recorded.

Beyond Beau: Five Women Making Moves in 2026

 When people talk about women's darts, the conversation often begins with Beau Greaves and the established stars such as Fallon Sherrock, Lisa Ashton and Deta Hedman.

But who could be the next players to make a significant jump?

Using the latest Women's Q4QS Rankings, here are five players who are quietly building momentum in 2026.

Eleanor Cairns

Women's Q4QS Rank: #20

Eleanor Cairns continues to establish herself as one of the most promising names outside the very top tier of women's darts. Strong recent form and a solid win rate have helped her climb into the top 20 of the Women's Q4QS Rankings.

The signs are encouraging. If she can continue converting good performances into deeper tournament runs, Cairns could push towards the elite group before the end of the season.

Aurora Fochesato

Women's Q4QS Rank: #19

Italian player Aurora Fochesato is another name worth watching.

Already sitting just outside the highest echelon of the Women's Q4QS Rankings, she has shown the ability to compete consistently against quality opposition and has established herself as one of the strongest emerging players on the continental European scene.

A breakthrough title or major run could see her climb rapidly.

Lauryn Salter

Women's Q4QS Rank: #26

Lauryn Salter has been putting together a series of encouraging performances throughout 2026.

What stands out is her recent form. Winning matches consistently is often the first sign of a player preparing to make a significant move up the rankings.

She's one to keep firmly on the radar.

Kyana Frauenfelder

Women's Q4QS Rank: #34

Kyana Frauenfelder may not grab as many headlines as some of the bigger names, but the numbers suggest she is moving in the right direction.

Strong recent results and a healthy win percentage have helped her establish herself inside the Women's Q4QS Top 40.

If that trajectory continues, she could become one of the stories of the second half of the season.

Ruby Grey

Women's Q4QS Rank: #36

Ruby Grey is another player showing signs of progress.

Still early in her journey compared to some of the more established names, she has already demonstrated enough quality to suggest there is more to come.

The coming months could be crucial in determining how far she can climb.

The Bigger Picture

Women's darts has never been stronger.

While Beau Greaves remains the benchmark and players such as Fallon Sherrock, Lisa Ashton and Deta Hedman continue to compete at the highest level, a new wave of talent is steadily building underneath them.

Whether it's Eleanor Cairns, Aurora Fochesato, Lauryn Salter, Kyana Frauenfelder or Ruby Grey, don't be surprised if one of these names becomes one of the major stories of 2026.

The future of women's darts looks very bright indeed.

South & South West Darts Results Round-Up – Saturday 6 June 2026

 

Saturday delivered another busy day of darts across the South and South West, with standout performances from some familiar names and several players continuing impressive recent runs.

🏆 Tournament Winners

DARTMANN Open

Johnny Haines produced another excellent performance to lift the DARTMANN Open title, defeating Joe Quiney 6-4 in the final. Haines topped the event with nine wins and recorded multiple 90+ averages during a superb campaign.

ADC South West Bi-Monthly Open

Sean McMurray emerged victorious at Portland Social Club, defeating Ian Lloyd in the final. Ian Spann recorded the highest average of the event with 86.51, but McMurray's consistency saw him claim the title.

Vault 17 Tewkesbury

Shaun Vernall continued his excellent form by adding another title to his growing collection. Vernall defeated Clive Burgess 3-1 in the final and produced the highest average of the tournament.

Street Darts Organisation Open

Jack Western enjoyed a superb day, defeating Kelvin Hart in the final and collecting nine wins across the event.

Phoenix Portsmouth Dart Series

Danny Smith came through one of the biggest fields of the day, defeating Samuel Palmer 5-4 in the final after an impressive run through a 155-match event.

💯 South & South West Highest Averages

1. Gary Simpson (Isle of Wight)

107.36

A stunning performance and the highest average recorded across the South & South West venues on Saturday.

2. Ricky Williams (Portsmouth)

101.64

Produced the highest average at the Phoenix Portsmouth Dart Series.

3. Johnny Haines (DARTMANN Open)

93.94

Champion and one of the standout performers of the day.

4. Darren Herbert (Phoenix Hotel)

91.41

Another strong display from one of the South West's most consistent performers.

5. Shaun Vernall (Tewkesbury)

87.41

Backed up another tournament victory with the highest average in the event.

🔥 Players In Form

Several players continue to appear near the top of reports across the region:

• Johnny Haines
• Shaun Vernall
• Darren Herbert
• Joe Quiney
• Gary Simpson
• Ian Spann

🎯 Performance Of The Day

Gary Simpson – 107.36 Average

The Isle of Wight player produced Saturday's standout performance, firing a superb 107.36 average to top the South & South West charts.

Looking Ahead

Attention now turns to Sunday's action, with players looking to build momentum and continue their climb up the Q4QS rankings. After another busy weekend across the region, several names are beginning to establish themselves as regular contenders.

South & South West Darts Results Round-Up – Friday 5 June 2026

 Friday night delivered another busy evening of darts across the South and South West, with titles claimed in Bristol, Somerset, Dorset, Devon and Bridgwater. Several players produced standout performances, while one player in particular stole the headlines with a remarkable ton-plus display.

🏆 Tournament Winners

Vault 17 Bristol

Shaun Vernall enjoyed an excellent evening at Lockleaze Community Club, defeating Zak Knapman 2-0 in the final. Vernall dominated throughout the night, recording four of the event's top averages and finishing with eight wins on the night.

Vault 17 Yeovil

Jack Walker emerged victorious at Bullets Sports Bar after edging Darren Herbert 3-2 in a closely contested final. Walker produced the highest average of the event at 88.70 and continued his impressive recent form.

Vault 17 Exeter

Andy Steed claimed the title at The Darts Lounge Exeter, overcoming Chris Wilcox 3-0 in the final. Steed collected eight wins during the evening and proved the most consistent performer in the field.

Vault 17 Shaftesbury

Nigel Lamb took the honours at Shaftesbury Football Club, defeating Brian Quilter 3-0 in the final. Geoff James produced the standout scoring performance of the night with multiple 90+ averages.

Vault 17 Sturminster

Zac Rendell defeated Andy Crane 3-0 in the final to secure the Sturminster title after both players enjoyed strong runs through the draw.

Vault 17 Weymouth

The performance of the night came from Henry Cooper, who captured the Wyke Regis title and produced a stunning 107.36 average during his run. Cooper defeated David Webb 3-0 in the final and recorded four of the tournament's five highest averages.

BDA Under-18 Series

At Bridgwater Darts Academy, Warren Rixon secured the title after defeating Scott Langdon in the final. Rixon topped the win charts with eight victories during the event.

💯 South & South West Top Averages

1. Henry Cooper (Weymouth)

107.36

A superb performance and the highest average recorded across the South & South West venues on Friday.

2. Geoff James (Shaftesbury)

93.94

Produced multiple 90+ averages despite falling short of the title.

3. Darren Herbert (Yeovil)

88.41

A strong run to the final and one of the standout performers of the evening.

4. Shaun Vernall (Bristol)

88.41

Dominated Lockleaze on his way to the title.

5. Dan Bevan (Exeter)

88.41

Recorded Exeter's highest average of the evening.

🔥 Players In Form

Several names continue to appear near the top of event reports:

• Henry Cooper (Weymouth)
• Shaun Vernall (Bristol)
• Darren Herbert (Yeovil)
• Geoff James (Shaftesbury)
• Andy Steed (Exeter)
• Warren Rixon (Bridgwater)

🎯 Performance Of The Day

Henry Cooper – 107.36 Average

The Weymouth champion delivered Friday's standout display, producing the only ton-plus average recorded across the South & South West events and backing it up by lifting the title.

Looking Ahead

Attention now turns to a packed weekend of darts, headlined by the England Open and England National Singles at Selsey. Many grassroots players will be hoping to carry Friday night's momentum into one of the biggest weekends on the English darts calendar.