David Holden, a veteran darts organiser, mentor, and former soldier, died in hospital on Monday, June 8, at the age of 89 after a long and influential life.
Born on St David’s Day, March 1, 1937, he spent his childhood in St Helens, growing up in Fingerpost, and went on to become one of the most respected figures in darts, known not only for his achievements on the oche but for his dedication in nurturing new talent at every level of the game.
Dave also worked for nearly 40 years at Bartons Pickles in Fingerpost, earning a reputation as a friendly and reliable delivery man who was said to know every street in town.
His long-time boss, Eddie Barton, described him as a “human Google Maps.”
Dave’s father, Richard “Dicky” Holden, co-ran the New Church Tavern – known locally as the Glass Barrel – and organised darts leagues in the 1950s and 60s.
This early exposure to the game ignited Mr Holden’s own passion for darts, and he quickly became a leading player in St Helens, eventually winning the Pontins Open in 1972.
Balancing a demanding job, Mr Holden poured his spare time and energy into developing darts at every level, often working without pay purely for the love of the sport.
He founded the St Helens Darts Super League and served as its secretary, famously with match reports typed by his wife, Jean.
The team won the first-ever Lancashire Men’s Super League title, earning recognition as the best in the county.
Dave also represented Lancashire in the inaugural County Championships during the 1973-74 season, winning seven of his nine matches and helping his team secure the title.
Family obligations and work commitments meant he stepped back from county-level play after a few seasons.
His contribution off the board was equally significant.
He organised the St Helens Star darts tournaments, which were hugely popular in the 1980s, and played a key role in the News of the World Darts Championship, distributing entry forms to pubs and clubs across the North West.
He even helped out at the regional finals in London.
In 1982, Dave launched the first youth darts competition in St Helens.
He ran the event for four years, drawing up to 220 entries each time.
He insisted that all prize money went directly to the young participants.
Even after a serious injury left him unable to work or play, Dave remained involved in the sport.
He regularly cycled to the St Helens darts shop, A180, which his son Karl had started 20 years ago.
He gave advice and coaching to players of all levels and was especially proud to see Michael Smith – who became PDC World Darts Champion in 2023 – excel after learning from him as a youngster.
He was also good friends with darts commentator and Bullseye co-host Tony Green and also John Gwynne.
David is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
His son Karl Holden said: “We the family would just like to say we loved dad so much. He was our inspiration, always there when you needed him.
“We have hundreds of great memories. On top of this, the Darts Shop would not exist, the academy would not exist, and the town team might not have started without him.
“He created something that will probably never be matched in darts in St Helens.”
His family added that David leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and community spirit.
He was surrounded by friends and family at the time of his death.
His family have expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and the countless messages they have received since his passing.
