Marston’s is calling on punters to step up to the oche in over 500 pubs, to be in with the chance of winning £10,000 and a game of 501 darts against champion Luke Humphries
This February, Marston’s is challenging darts teams up and down the country to step up to their local oche and see if they have what it takes to get their hands on a cool £10,000.
The two Southport pubs where you can take part are the Zetland Hotel (53 Zetland Street, Southport, PR9 0RH) and the Old Duke (290 Scarisbrick New Road, Southport, PR8 5HW).
Following the success of last year’s tournament, the Cool Hand Cup is back. This time Marston’s and Luke Humphries have teamed up to find the UK’s best darts team, challenging them to take on the fan-favourite 501 game.
Over 500 pubs will be hosting four-week, round robin leagues between 2nd February and 1st March 2026, with teams of four invited to sign up to participate in a traditional game of 501 darts.
Team captains have until 25th January 2026 to sign up their teams, either online or via QR code in their local pub.
Following the leagues, teams with the highest number of points will advance to a Regional Knockout, which will take place between 9th-13th March 2026, competing to be one of 16 teams that advance to the Grand Final.
On Friday 10th April 2026, the Grand Final will see the winning regional teams whisked away to Marston’s answer to Ally Pally, competing in a knockout tournament, to see if they can be crowned the ultimate champions. The winners will take home £10,000 and the coveted Cool Hand Cup trophy, as well as winning the chance to play against multiple major tournament winner, Luke Humphries.
Luke Humphries, said:
“The pub is a special place for me and my family, and I grew up playing darts at my local.
“Having the opportunity to meet players from up and down the country last year was fantastic, and I’m delighted to be working with Marston’s again to bring back the Cool Hand Cup.”
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