Eric Bristow dead: Darts legend’s name rings round Echo Arena as news of his passing reaches fans

CHANTS of "there's only one Eric Bristow" rang around the Echo Arena as news of the darts legend's death reached the fans.

The Crafty Cockney was at a corporate darts event in Liverpool before Thursday night's Premier League action when he suffered a heart attack.

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Bristow was a pioneer within darts and one of the first stars of the sport.

And his popularity was evident as videos emerged of the entire crowd chanting his name in unison as they showed their appreciation.

Legends of the sport lined up to pay tribute.

Raymond van Barneveld tweeted: "Eric Bristow died tonight.... I am lost for words and really devastated!! He was darts he meant so much to me, cannot believe it !! My thoughts go out to his wife and family."

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While Michael van Gerwen posted: "Just heard the latest horrible news that Eric Bristow has passed away. My thought are with his family at this sad time. True legend in the game!"

Another ex-world champion Dennis Priestley added: "Absolutely devastated to be told earlier that my good friend Eric Bristow has passed away.

"We shared some great times together and I’m so saddened that we won’t get to share anymore. Rest in peace old friend."

While Keith Deller labelled his pal “an icon of British sport”.