Jamie Hughes Gets a Huge Lift
Jamie Hughes believes that a brand new local backer can lift him to new heights in the PDC world rankings.
The Tipton ace has linked up with local firm Flexi Narrow Aisle in a long-term sponsorship to boost his bid for more title glory.
Hughes, 34, is already a multiple title winner and most recently picked up the Czech Darts title midway through last year.
The World No.33 admits he’s delighted with the new partnership with the firm which make world-leading forklift trucks.
He said: “There’s no doubt that confidence and belief are a massive thing in darts. To get this sort of sponsorship gives me a huge boost.
“Donald Houston and everyone at Flexi Narrow Aisle have been fantastic and I think it’s extra special it’s a local company. You can clearly see they want me to be successful for myself and the local area.
“This backing undoubtedly allows me to focus even more on my game and nothing else but that. I feel that could make such a big difference.
“Now it’s up to me to get the results. It’s been a tough year for everyone but I know I can keep improving and go up the rankings.”
Houston, from Flexi Narrow Aisle also based in Tipton, admits that the association came from a chance glimpse of seeing Hughes on TV.
He said: “I was in a hotel and watching the UK Open and I just happened to see that a Tipton boy Jamie Hughes was very successful from the Black Country.
“We are very proud of our heritage and the success we get from the people in our area.
“I’m from Scotland and I’m very passionate about that and it’s the same feeling for Tipton and where we are located.
“We are a very successful company, we turnover roughly £25.5million and making not far short of £3million profit. We employ 80 people which the majority come from that area.
“Just seeing a figure like Jamie doing well in the sport and can do with all the potential to improve as well. We have the same values.
“We always wanted to be associated with the local boy. Over 40 per cent of our turnover goes around the world.
“We make a very niche product which is an articulated fork truck. It can turn in its own circle allowing it go round tight corners and through narrow spaces where other forklift trucks can’t. We are the world market leader in our sector with a desire to better.
“I think Jamie represents what we want to represent. We want to be the best that we can do and he is exactly the same.
“We will be proud to have Jamie at some of our events. This is an investment in a local boy who we want to see get as successful as he can in the Premier League and beyond.”
By Phil Lanning