Fans of darts have paid homage to Bob Potter, the owner of Lakeside, who passed away at the age of 94.
After playing a crucial part in both British and international darts, Potter received the OBE in 1993. He permitted the darts world championships to be held at his renowned Lakeside Country Club from 1986 to 2019.
In addition, Lakeside was the competition’s primary sponsor from 2004 through 2019 and once more in 2022. And the whole darts community joined together to bid Potter a heartfelt farewell on social media.
“Sad news to hear about the passing of Bob Potter OBE today. RIP the owner of The Home of World Darts. Thoughts are with his family and friends at this time,” one fan wrote on social media. “Sad news. A man of great importance to the darts story. Legend. The home of world darts,” another commented.
A third fan added, “if it wasn’t for Bob there would be no Lakeside and no history,” before a fourth fan added a concise but poignant message which read, “Very sad news. Rest easy sir.”
Huw Ware, a darts official, also issued a statement that said, “Dad to hear the loss of Bob Potter. He worked quite hard and was always very hospitable. His location is well-known, and his support of the BDO World Championship was essential. RIP.”
When it was still known as “Wharfenden House,” Potter purchased what is now known as Lakeside Country Club in 1972. The local hall was later expanded to hold 1000 people, first as a venue for comedians and musicians.
But it eventually became one of the most iconic venues for world darts and remained just that for over 30 years. “The World Darts Federation are deeply saddened to learn that Bob Potter OBE passed away earlier today at the age of 94,” a statement from the Darts governing body posted.
They also added, “We look forward to continuing his legacy at the venue over at least the next three years. At this sad time, the thoughts of the WDF family are with Bob’s loved ones and we express our sincere condolences to his family and friends.”