A DARTS marathon expert has once again hit the bull's-eye for charity, and his efforts could well help keep a church choir in good voice.

Richard Lilley of Colerne has just completed his 16th darts marathon for charity.

His exhausting marathon however, has paid off and organisers believe he has succeeded in raising more than £1,000 for the village church.

The marathon was organised by Russell Harding, a trustee of the friends of St John's Church.

He said: "It was a great occasion and Richard was fantastic.

"There were lots of people there to keep him going and he said once he saw the dawn come through the window, he had a second wind."

The marathon started at 1pm on Saturday at the Fox and Hounds public house.

Mr Lilley played for the full 24 hours and was challenged through the day and night by friends and pub regulars.

He was offered little respite from the darts board and was able to take just five minutes break on the hour every hour.

The landlord and landlady, Phil and Anita Burland-Beech, made sure everyone managed to stay awake during the night and were on hand with strong tea and coffee.

"It was either Phil or Anita on duty throughout the whole time," Mr Harding said.

"There were a few people there and I think everyone thoroughly enjoyed the occasion. It was really good," he added.

The Friends of the Church are currently raising money to buy heaters for the choir area. In the winter the choir members have to endure freezing conditions.

The marathon itself is expected to raise well over £1,000 and proceeds from a raffle should boost the figure to nearer £1,500.

The grand total will be announced on May 18 at the church May fair.