CLIFTON Hotel have become the first pub to provide three teams for the World of Darts Punch Tavern Classic grand final.

The sides progressed to the national finale from an 18-strong regional qualifier at Wakefield’s Union Inn.

In group two, Clifton ‘A’ (Neil Hart, Barry Noble, Rich Corner, Terry Temple, Mark Hartley and Stuart Limbert) overcame Clifton ‘D’ (Jo Hodges, Andy Rennie, Barry Smith, Robert Smith and Martin Jackson) 5-0, and then recovered from 4-2 down to win the last three singles and triumph 5-4 against Punch Bowl (Sheffield).

Clifton ‘B’ (Iain Smith, Tommy Heron, Chris Matthews, Andy Lawson, Andy Strangeway and Ian Barlow) were convincing group three qualifiers after beating Innforapenny (Nottingham) 5-4 and Bards (Lincoln) 5-2.

Group four saw Clifton ‘C’ (Dave Scaum, Steve Evans, Ali Wray, Keith Turner, Steve Atkin and Lawrie Morgan) march through with 5-3 triumphs against George and Dragon (Alfreton) and Travellers Inn (Wakefield).

The Clifton pub is planning to run a coach to the grand final, which will take place at Newdigate Sports and Social Club on Saturday, October 24 with a first prize of £1,000.