ST HELENS darts stars have paid tributes following the death of legend Eric Bristow MBE yesterday evening.

Eric, who was at Liverpool's Echo Arena for last night's Premier League matches, suffered a fatal heart attack.

His passing was announced during the final match of an emotional evening at the venue between Peter Wright and Daryl Gurney.

Eric, 60, was a five-time World Darts Champion and arguably the game's first's superstar.

The 'Crafty Cockney', who also mentored 16-time World Champion Phil Taylor, was world number one between 1980 and 1987.

He was one of the players involved in the creation of the breakaway WDC (later PDC) after darts' split in 1992.

Clock Face thrower Michael Smith, who had beaten Raymond van Barneveld 7-0 during last night's action in Liverpool, took to Twitter to commemorate Eric.

He said: "Eric Bristow = legend. Creator of darts. Made our sport what it is today and all round great guy. Will be sadly miss. And deepest condolences to family of Eric's and loved ones."

St Helens professional Dave Chisnall wrote: "Such sad news about Eric Bristow RIP".

Windle-based thrower Stephen Bunting tweeted: "Very sad news tonight. To hear of @ericbristow passing away. The impact he has had on this sport was amazing and he really was the true champion and showman. We will never forget you. #RIPEricBristow #RIPEric"