Final fling for Panel beaters (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Final fling for Panel beaters

6:49pm Tuesday 4th March 2008 in Sport By Steve Tinniswood, Sports reporter

THE line-up for the grand final of the St Wilfrid's Panel Darts competition is now complete following the latest round of qualifying matches.

After eight tough qualifying rounds, the top 16 players have emerged to go for glory at the Longridge club later this month.

Now those elite darters will contest the £1200 prize fund as the competition reaches its climax on Friday, March 14.

The event has attracted darters from across East Lancashire and two well know local players Andy Gudgeon from Clitheroe and Keith Lynch from Blackburn won through from week six.

Gudgeon, who plays for Oldham in the Lancashire Super league and represents Lancashire in the Inter Counties League, went through as winner after beating Lynch 3-0 in the final.

Runner-up Lynch plays for The Fox and Hounds in the Blackburn League.

Losing semifinalists were Mark Taylor from Preston beaten by Gudgeon 3-0 while Ian Robinson from Walmer Bridge lost 3-0 to Lynch.

The night saw the first ladies knockout competition which was won by Claire Cooke who beat Jennette Bond in the final.

Week seven saw darters from further afield book their place in the grand final with Dave Johnston from Bolton beating Fran Lynch of Lancaster Losing semi finalists were Rick Peddar form Garstang, beaten by Johnston 3-1, and Gareth Jennings, also of Garstang, who lost 3-0 to Lynch.

And it was a real family affair on the night as the winner of the second ladies competiton was Nicky Johnston - wife of men's winner Dave - who beat Mary Cooper in the final.

And the grand final line-up was completed by Richard Winder from Chipping who beat Pete Connolly from Stockport in the week eight qualifier.

Losing semifinals were Andy Alcock from Scorton and John Tiffin from Longridge.

In the ladies event, Karen Sharples beat Lisa Whiteside.

Now the 16 qualifiers will now compete for the first prize of £500 next week and a total prize fund £1200. The first games will start at 8.00pm.