BRADFORD’S winning machine David Howells showed no signs of loosening his grip on the darts trophy at the National Indoor Games of The British Polio Fellowship, winning his sixth consecutive gold.

The National Games for those with Polio and Post Polio Syndrome are held at the Leicester Marriott and David showed he remains the man to beat in darts, once again proving too strong despite a tough field.

A strong challenge from Howard Parker and Jenny Clark from the North West Region could not stop David bringing home his double hat-trick and helping the Yorkshire region team secure second place overall.

“David’s achievements at the National Indoor Games are unequalled,” said national chairman of The British Polio Fellowship David Mitchell.

“There are regular favourites in a number of the 11 disciplines, but six golds in six consecutive years is some record.

"I’m sure David will be keen to make it lucky number seven in 2019 as the charity celebrates our 80th anniversary at what will be a landmark games.”

Other winners from Yorkshire included Josie Dargen and Dennis Kay with gold in Dominoes; silver for Pauline Henfrey (Cribbage) and Catherine and Keith Mitton (5s and 3s) and a third place for Frank Evers in Boccia (Class 2).

All competitors, including David, received their medals at a gala dinner where captain Rosemary Bilton received the Bryan Rowley trophy for second place on behalf of the Yorkshire region team.

Conceived from the original Stoke Mandeville Games, the National Indoor Games allow people who had Polio and now live with Post Polio Syndrome (PPS) to still compete in a range of sports and games, no matter what their disability.

The event attracts over 200 competitors, who qualify from regional heats held across the country.

Originally held in Walsall, the Leicester Marriott became home to the games 16 years ago due to its facilities and transport links and is to those with PPS what the Crucible is to snooker.

Visit britishpolio.org.uk to find out more about The British Polio Fellowship and to learn about the late effects of Polio and Post Polio Syndrome.