Announcements

STORM Emma has wrecked Craig Winstanley's chance of competing in the 2018 Coral UK Open — the so called FA Cup of darts.

The 30-year-old from Sutton qualified for a place in the tournament featuring some of the sport's elite players which takes place this weekend at the Butlin’s Minehead Resort, Somerset.

But the extreme wintry conditions has meant, despite numerous attempts at trying to get through to the venue, Winstanley is among the players who have been forced to pull out.

After the surprise and elation at qualifying, Winstanley, who works as a fabricator with Universal Arches, could not hide his disappointment at having to withdraw.

Last night he tweeted: "Snow 1-0 Wonderboy. Car got stuck three times, gonna have one more try. Wasn't meant to be, #I'll be back."

Alas that attempt proved unsuccessful and today he added: "On route home. Had a go but trying to get to Minehead was too dangerous.

"Absolutely devastated."

The PDC have already confirmed 10 players have been forced to withdraw from the £350,00 tournament.

St Helens will still be represented by elite darters Michael Smith, Stephen Bunting and Dave Chisnall.

The Butlins venue have also taken steps to close the competition to spectators.

A statement from the organisers read: "Due to the unprecedented extreme weather conditions, we have regretfully decided to not allow guests to attend this weekend’s PDC Coral UK Open at our resort in Minehead, Somerset, for safety reasons – however, the tournament will take place behind closed doors and be broadcast on ITV4 as scheduled."