Professional darts walk-on girls have been axed by PDC chiefs. Photo / Getty
Two model walk-on girls have defended their role in the sport of darts in the wake of organisers controversially axing them from major televised events.
The models, who escort players onto the stage and up the oche, have been a regular feature of the Professional Darts Corporation tournaments around the world.
The models are also used in the hugely popular world darts championships, which are held annually at the Alexandra Palace in London.
However, according to the Mirror, PDC chiefs have confirmed that the walk-on girls would no longer be a part of any televised events in 2018 - all in the name of inclusive family viewing.
"We regularly review all aspects of our events and this move has been made following feedback from our host broadcasters," a PDC spokesman said.
Two walk-on models told the Sun newspaper that they have never been subjected to sexual harassment and that they "can't think of a female job that's more safe".
Charlotte Wood and Daniella Allfree appeared on ITV's This Morning defending their role in the sport.
"We're nine per cent of the advertising, we wear a sash with the logo of the sponsor of the tournament," Allfree argued.
"It just brings a bit of glitz and glamour to an event that's predominately male.
"I can't think of a female job that's more safe. We've got four big security guards with us constantly, it's such a safe environment."
Allfree added that similar jobs were now in jeopardy.
"It's scary really where it's going to lead this industry. We do a lot of sport, we do the horseracing, F1 grid – which for me is such a prestigious job."