Paul Booth after becoming new BDO Master of Ceremonies: ‘It’s most definitely the start of a new era’

Booth recently caught up with Dartsnews.com and he said he was over the moon with the appointment. He also called the role iconic; as well as one he wants to give his all.

‘I’m over the moon with the appointment. I’ve had so many messages from well wishers including many players and officials from both the BDO and the PDC; to learn nearly a hundred people put themselves forward for the role and to be handed such an iconic position is brilliant,

‘I’m looking forward to giving it my full 180% and hopefully making many new friends along the way.’

When asked whether he believes it is a new era in BDO darts, Booth believes it is but that fans have to give it some time; especially with changes to the venues including Lakeside.

‘Darts fans have to give the new regime their full support and a chance to show what plans lie ahead for the BDO; it’s most definitely the start of a new era, yes.

‘There is obviously reasons behind switching to the O2 and the Circus Tavern; listening to the Chairman its exciting times ahead and I’m so looking forward to being a part of those future plans.’

The Blackburn native is one of the best known MC’s on the exhibition circuit; he gave just some of his memories.

‘I tell everybody I have the best job in the world, Oh wow, where do I start.’

‘The most amazing scoring game head to head between Raymond Van Barneveld & Adrian Lewis; Ronnie Baxter throwing 2 Bullseyes through a blank piece of paper.

‘The legends nights are my favourites, they such characters with great stories; Peter Manley and Tony O’Shea are such gents, Wolfie and his many sets of variety Darts he uses in one leg; Keith Deller and John Lowe’s celebrity tales; and of course the many stories of my great friend Eric Bristow.’

The chairman has begun his tenure with criticism; but Booth said that he wants to steer the BDO in the right direction.

He added that he sat down with him for two hours and enjoyed his honesty; as well as that he can’t wait to work with him starting at the World Trophy.

‘Des is a straight talking successful businessman who is passionate and needs a chance to move things in the direction he’s wanting to steer the BDO,

‘I sat down with him for two hours and loved his honesty, I’m looking forward to working with him and meeting my new colleagues later this month; fresh faces, fresh voices who have earned their right for their chance,

‘I’ve worked with John a couple of times on the circuit already; I think the appointment of Kerrie to referee the female games is a master stroke.’

Being from Blackburn, Booth finally said that he can’t wait to get started and urged fans to get behind Des and the team.

‘It couldn’t have been placed any better for me. King George’s Hall is a fabulous iconic venue which has played host to some of the greatest names in entertainment; I’ll know many familiar faces from both the Blackburn and North West Darts scene.

‘It’ll be great to make my debut as BDO MC in front of many people I know; and to an audience on Eurosport as far away as Australia.

‘Darts fans can hopefully collectively get behind Des and the team on the committee and take the BDO to where it belongs; I’m so looking forward to the great challenge ahead.’