Legendary darts referee Russ Bray has urged fans to take action against disruptive whistling at major events, following recent incidents at the Premier League in Glasgow that affected top players.
The issue came to a head during night two of the Premier League, where Gerwyn Price, Luke Littler and Luke Humphries were targeted by whistlers in the crowd.
Bray, now a PDC ambassador, has described the problem as a "thorn in the side of the game" and called for spectators to help identify those responsible to security staff.
The 67-year-old believes audience members must play their part in combating the disruption, as referees face significant challenges in pinpointing culprits among thousands of spectators.
Luke Littler beat Luke Humphries in the Premier League on Thursday night
PA
During the final against Littler, referee Kirk Bevins was forced to intervene, demanding "stop whistling" from the crowd.
The official's plea backfired, drawing jeers from spectators, with Littler later commenting that it "made it worse."
The incident echoed similar concerns from last year's Grand Slam, where Mike De Decker criticised Bevins for not taking stronger action against whistling during his match against the teenager.
Luke Littler and Luke Humphries were targeted with whistles during their Premier League match on Thursday
PA
The disruption was particularly evident in Price's performance, with the usually composed star showing visible signs of agitation during play.
Referees find themselves in an "almost impossible position" when attempting to address the issue, highlighting the need for alternative solutions to combat the problem.
"The worst thing you can say as a referee is, ladies and gentleman, please don't whistle, because all the idiots will start whistling. That's the mentality of them," he told the Daily Express.
"All you can say is say, ladies and gentlemen, please give the best of order. Then it's up to the security to do something about it, to get those idiots out. We don't need them in there, it drives you nuts," he added.
Bray emphasised the crucial role spectators could play in addressing the issue.
"How you police it, it's very difficult. It's hard to pinpoint one person when you've got thousands of people in the audience. It really needs the people in the audience to point them out," he explained.
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"If an idiot next to me was whistling, I'd turn round and have a go at him. You're there to enjoy the game, not have some clown spoil it."
Bray highlighted the unfairness to professional players trying to earn their living.
"It's their work. If someone was laying bricks, you wouldn't go down there and play with his cement to put him off," he stated.
Darts legend Russ Bray believes action must be taken after whistlers controversially targeted Luke Littler, Luke Humphries and Gerwyn Price
PA
While acknowledging crowd reactions in other sports, Bray insisted darts players are particularly vulnerable.
"I absolutely detest whistlers. The minute someone whistles, they should be thrown out. Get rid of them, you don't need idiots like that," he declared.
