The Sheppey Darts Classic is a month away and organiser Tony Cox believes a home-grown talent is due for glory soon.

The prize fund remains at £7,000 despite some major backers pulling out this year and Mr Cox wants to see someone from the Island take the crown from last year’s winner Andy Belton.

Norfolk pro Belton has dominated for the last four years, missing out on a victory only once, as he received surgery to remove a brain tumor.

"Nobody seems to be able to knock him off his pedestal," said Mr Cox (pictured). "He never seems to do that well elsewhere but when he plays on the Island, he seems to do well every time. He is the man to beat."

Local entries for the ninth Sheppey Classic are currently low but Mr Cox expects that to change soon and for Belton to face tough opposition.

He added: "We have plenty of people who are capable of beating him, including Paul McDine and Geoff Harkup.

"There are also two players in Ryan Hope and Pat Scurfield who are on form. They have both been playing for Kent and stand a good chance.

"Nobody from the Island has won it before but it’s got to happen eventually."

Mr Cox will again be left hoping sponsors can come in at late notice to help plug the hole in the prize fund.

He said: "We’re left with a £1,500 shortfall in the prize fund and are looking to see who can help. We have a guaranteed £7,000 prize fund and if we don’t find it, I will be digging in my pockets."

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