John McDonald and George Noble Honoured with PDC Hall of Fame Induction as Ally Pally Era Nears Its End

Legendary Master of Ceremonies John McDonald and long-serving referee George Noble have been confirmed as the latest figures to be inducted into the PDC Hall of Fame, in recognition of their outstanding service to the sport over the past 30 years.

The much-loved pair will make their final appearances at Alexandra Palace during Saturday’s Paddy Power World Darts Championship final between Luke Littler and Gian van Veen, bringing the curtain down on two of the most recognisable on-stage careers in modern darts.

McDonald: the voice of modern darts

McDonald has become one of the most instantly identifiable voices in the sport, renowned worldwide for his distinctive player introductions and commanding presence on the biggest stages.

He joined the PDC on a full-time basis in 2007 after taking over from Phil Jones, although his association with the organisation stretches further back. McDonald first appeared on the PDC stage during the inaugural Showdown event in 2004 and was also involved during the early years of the Premier League.

Before his darts career took centre stage, McDonald served in the Parachute Regiment and later worked as a news photographer. His background as a professional sports MC was forged in boxing, before expanding across a wide range of sports during a career spanning more than three decades.

His ability to build atmosphere and elevate major moments has seen him become a central figure in the rise of darts as a global entertainment spectacle.

Noble’s officiating legacy

Alongside McDonald, George Noble’s contribution to the game has been equally significant. The 57-year-old has been a fixture on the PDC circuit for almost 20 years, having previously led refereeing duties within the BDO before crossing over.

Noble has overseen some of the most iconic moments in World Championship history, including seven nine-darters on the Alexandra Palace stage. Notably, he was the official who called the first perfect leg ever recorded at a PDC World Championship, achieved by Raymond van Barneveld during the 2008/09 tournament.

Saturday’s final will mark the end of Noble’s on-stage refereeing career, fittingly introduced one final time by McDonald’s unmistakable voice.

PDC tribute to two icons

PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter paid tribute to both men, highlighting their lasting impact on the organisation and the sport as a whole.

“John and George have played a huge role in the growth of the PDC over the last two decades,” Porter said.

“John’s passion, energy and ability to create an atmosphere have helped make darts the sport it is today. Someone has to set the scene, and John’s voice has done that better than anyone.

“When George joined the PDC, it felt as significant as signing a top player. He strengthened our refereeing team enormously and has been outstanding for us ever since.

“We are immensely thankful for everything they’ve given to darts, and their Hall of Fame induction is a fitting recognition of their influence.”

Joining darts royalty

McDonald and Noble now take their place among an illustrious group within the PDC Hall of Fame, joining figures such as PDC President Barry Hearn OBE, founders Dick Allix and Tommy Cox, iconic referee Russ Bray, and legendary players including Phil Taylor, Eric Bristow MBE, John Lowe MBE, Dennis Priestley, Rod Harrington and John Part.

Former PDC Master of Ceremonies Phil Jones, along with referees Freddie Williams and Bruce Spendley, have also previously been honoured for their exceptional service to the sport.

As the World Championship final brings this era to a close, darts will bid farewell to two voices that have helped define its modern identity — both leaving behind a legacy that will be heard and remembered for generations.