The organiser of the Sheppey Darts Classic has warned a lack of interest could force the event to move off the Island.

This year’s competition at Merlin’s Complex, Leysdown, on June 5 and 6 will be the eighth but Tony Cox has warned that unless local players turn out in force to support the event, they could lose it in future.

He said: "The Classic started off in Sheppey and I would hate to lose it but that could happen if we don’t get enough support.

"I know for a fact that Maidstone would love to have it.

"People should not take it for granted and should make the most of it while they’ve got it."

He added: "Darts is taking off and I’m often asked about putting on other classics elsewhere."

Mr Cox revealed entry numbers were well down on last year but remained hopeful that entries would increase before the draw.

He said: "I think what’s happened is that the locals have all left it to the last minute but that doesn’t help me.

"I need their forms in my hand because I’ve got a draw to make.

"Last year was a slow year and this year we are about 60 down on the 189 we had then.

"I think with the way things are, maybe people haven’t got the money.

"We have had problems with sponsorship, too. Some of the companies who have sponsored us in the past can’t do it any more because they are in trouble.

"When you lose one or two £400 or £500s it takes a lot of making up. Last year was slow financially, I thought things might be a little better this year but actually they are even worse."

He added: "There is a guaranteed prize fund of £7,000.

"A lot of events say ‘dependent on entries’ but I haven’t done that so I’ll have to meet it, even if it is out of my own pocket and I don’t want to do that.

"I’d love to be able to raise a big total because I want to support (the charity) Help for Heroes this year."

Mr Cox said sponsors interested in being included in the Classic programme had until the end of the weekend to come forward, while any other potential sponsors or those with raffle prizes to contribute would also be welcome.

For more details, ring Mr Cox on 07747 676676 or 01795 875263 or visit www.sheppeydarts.com