Brandon darts wonderkid Lennon ‘The Force’ Wharf, who trains in Stowmarket, secures second year of sponsorship from Stonham Barns Park

An 11-year-old darts wonderkid with dreams to be the best in the world has secured sponsorship from a Suffolk venue for a second year.

Lennon ‘The Force’ Wharf, of Brandon, has signed with Stonham Barns Park after a successful debut year and looks set to continue his darting journey while they assist with fees for competitions and other costs.

The talented youngster, who also joined Elite 1 programme Target Darts aged 10, has even practiced with icon Phil Taylor and met superstar Luke Littler.

Since he started playing darts aged three, Lennon has won more than 40 trophies and currently plays for Suffolk under-18s at county level.

He recently competed at the U18’s JDC Foundation event in Coventry. Lennon finished 27th out of 206 people despite being a several years younger than the rest of his opponents.

Lennon’s dad, Gary Wharf, 41, said: “The event in Coventry was a massive result for Lennon and with the backing of his sponsors, we both believe he can go all the way to the top.

“He averages a lot better these days and he’s more confident. We’re very proud of our boy and the way he conducts himself on and off the darts stage.

“In the short term, the aim is to win a place on the JDC advanced tour next year and long term he hopes to be the best in the world by 21 years old.”

Lennon, who hit his first 180 aged three, plays for several hours a night after doing his schoolwork and plays about 6 hours per day including competitions.

In the last couple of years, Lennon has relished the opportunity to practice with Phil Taylor multiple times.

Considered widely as the best darts player of all time, Taylor has wished Lennon all the best on his journey.

“Phil Taylor is one of my favourite players so I’m very lucky to have met him,” Lennon said.

“It’s been amazing meeting new people and getting to know my sponsors. It’s a bit crazy that I’m sometimes in the papers and on TV.

“I just like to keep my feet grounded and crack on with my practice.”

Darting action is to be welcomed back at Stonham Barns Park on March 8 as part of the Suffolk Super Series.

Players from across the country will head to the venue in an event presented by Evolution Darts in association with Target Darts.

The meeting will be the third of eight across the county before a Finals Day in December.