Darts icon and owner of Frimley’s Lakeside Country Club Bob Potter …
The owner of a Surrey hotel which hosted one of the world’s most iconic darts events has passed away aged 94. The death of Bob Potter OBE, longtime owner of the Lakeside Country Club in Frimley[1] Green, was announced on Friday (April 14) leading to tributes flooding in from across the darting world. His hotel played host to the BDO (and then WDF) World Darts[2] Championship from 1986 to 2019 and then again in 2022.
He also served as the lead sponsor of the championship from 2004 to 2019 with the World Darts Federation saying in a statement he was an “ardent supporter of darts.” “The World Darts Federation[3] are deeply saddened to learn that Bob Potter OBE passed away earlier today at the age of 94,” they said.
“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[5] and friends.” Tributes were also paid by former competitors including TV presenter and one-time finalist at Lakeside, Bobby George[6]. Tweeting a photo of himself enjoying a beer with Potter he said: “RIP Bob Potter OBE.
Catcha for a pint when I see ya mate!” Meanwhile 2014 champion Stephen Bunting added: “Such sad news. Rip bob potter.
My thoughts are with all the family at this sad time.” Potter established Lakeside[7] in 1972 when he bought Wharfenden House as well as the surrounding grounds and lake. He soon doubled the size of the hall which also played host to comedy acts such as Tommy Cooper and Morecambe and Wise.
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References
- ^ Frimley (www.getsurrey.co.uk)
- ^ Darts (www.getsurrey.co.uk)
- ^ World Darts Federation (dartswdf.com)
- ^ Fashion designer and Surrey resident Dame Mary Quant dies aged 93 (www.getsurrey.co.uk)
- ^ family (www.getsurrey.co.uk)
- ^ Bobby George (www.getsurrey.co.uk)
- ^ Lakeside (www.getsurrey.co.uk)
- ^ here. (data.reachplc.com)