Heydon breezes into TV stages of Coral UK Open

Former UK Open finalist Mark Walsh and 1995 world champion Richie Burnett were among Heydon’s victims as he reached the fifth round on Saturday before losing to eventual winner Gary Anderson 6-3.

The following day in the sixth and final qualifier, Heydon had two match darts on his way to a 6-5 third-round defeat at the hands of losing finalist Michael Smith.

The Lillington thrower gained £1,250 in prize money for the two days, comfortably putting him among the 106 qualifiers for the finals which will be held from March 7-9 at the Butlins Minehead Resort in Somerset.

The finals will see 138 players do battle live on ITV4 across eight stages, with the professionals being joined by 32 Rileys amateur qualifiers.

Heydon is hoping the TV exposure will encourage local businesses to sponsor patches on his shirt.

Anyone interested should contact him on 07722 177118.

Steve Beaton, who was already assured of qualification for the televised stages, bowed out in the fourth round on Saturday to Andrew Gilding.

A third round defeat to Glenn Spearing followed, leaving Beaton with prize money of £6,250 for the six qualifiers.

 The Mayor’s Charity Darts Night will take place at the Sydenham Club tonight (8pm).

Entry to the random pairs is £2 per individual, with a charity raffle also taking place.

Meanwhile, the Holly Bush is hosting a youth event on March 15 (1pm).

There will be an under-16, under-21 and pairs competition alongside senior players, with entry to each competition costing £2.