A TEENAGE darts enthusiast from Accrington who has found himself in the right 'Place' at the right time, now hopes his career can go through the roof!

Sixteen-year-old Brian Carter, son of the well-known and experienced Fred Carter, has secured a 12-month sponsorship deal with local businessman Dave Place, himself a talented darter.

Brian, who has worked at Dave's roofing firm since leaving Mount Carmel High School earlier this year, is looking to hit the heights with his new sponsor.

"I have been after a sponsor for some time now, as I know that it's essential in order for me to further my career in the sport," says Brian.

"I know Dave quite well, having worked with him for some time. He agreed to sponsor me and I've now got a shirt made with his business on it and I wear it at all my matches."

Belfast-born Fred, 45, who plays for both East Lancashire and Lancashire, has won all three of the major Accrington titles during his career - the Hyndburn Open individual, doubles and mixed doubles.

Fred, who has helped launch a series of successful youth competitions in the Blackburn and Accrington area, said: "My lad was playing well and got selected to play for Lancashire, however there were no local tournaments for players of his age to get that bit of extra match practice.

"

Fred firmly believes that his son has got all the attributes to go all the way:

"He's seen me throw darts from a young age and when he took up the sport it wasn't long before he started to get good accuracy," he said.

"Over the past six months, the improvement has been unbelievable. Brian used to be very good at snooker, but I always told him that his future was with darts and now we can't keep him away from the practice board."

Brian has now dedicated his life to the sport and he knows that if he continues to work hard then he too could become a big name on the East Lancashire scene.

"I would love to follow in the footsteps of my dad and other great players like Dave," he said.

"I've been playing for Lancashire for just one season and won eight out of the nine games. So if I continue to play well and practice hard, I reckon I'll make pro by the time I'm 25."

Any local sponsors who want to get involved can contact either Fred or Brian Carter on 01254 384318.