By Mathew Taylor

PALS who tricked their mate into dressing as a smurf on a night out have been amazed by the online reaction to their hilarious prank.

28-year-old Darren Buckley, was left blue faced after three of his friends fooled him into donning the cartoon outfit for a trip to watch premier league darts in Manchester.

A video of the joke, posted to Facebook by Brody Walmsley, 26, from Deane, on March 23, has since be viewed more than one million times.

Warning: Video contains some bad language

Mr Walmsley concocted the plot with friends, Bradley Mills, 25, and Anthony Smith, 28, from Westhoughton.

Mr Walmsley said: “We had organised to go on a night out at the Manchester Arena as the darts was on.

“The idea of fancy dress popped up and Darren was sold on the idea. Me, Anthony and Brad thought it would be funny to let just Darren dress up on his own.

“He was sending ideas over and so were we. But the only thing was, ours weren’t real.”

The video shows the trio pulling over to pick Darren up in a car.

Dancing excitedly on the kerb, Mr Buckley’s face soon drops as he realises his pals are all smart-casual.

“When the video ended he asked us to take him home to get changed but we didn't let him,” said Mr Walmsley.

“He was a good sport and enjoyed his night. Darren has forgiven us. He's loved the attention he's received from the video.”

The video has certainly raised a lot of smiles. It’s been viewed by people all over the world on various social media sites.

Mr Walmsley added: “I'm really shocked how popular it's been. I've had companies offering me money for the video but I haven't replied.

“We always play pranks and have a laugh but this is the first thing that has been recorded and has gone viral.

“I've received so many messages telling me how people have enjoyed the video and it has had a positive response in general.”