Relieved Shropshire darter Steve Farmer booked his place in the last 16 of the PDE World Championship after beating German newcomer Kevin Munch at Alexandra Palace.

The pair were locked at 2-2, with Munch initially having the better of proceedings, but the 46-year-old from Hadley in Telford took the fifth set in straight legs and was equally clinical as he wrapped up the next to reach the last 16.

Farmer will play James Wade in the last 16 after the world No 3 was at his ruthless best when he hammered Jelle Klaasen.

“It’s the best feeling in the world to be in the last 16, but it was a struggle,” said Farmer who guaranteed himself £15,000 in prize money with the win.

“I’d never heard of Kevin before the tournament and thought I’d win it 4-0, but the flow wasn’t there for me.

“Kevin played quite well and put me under pressure, but I think my experience told in the end. I’ll have a nice Christmas now, relax and put plenty of practice in, and it should be a great game against James.”

Wade lit up the final session of the tournament before Christmas with a 4-0 win over his opponent, including three 180s.

Kevin Painter also progressed from the second round after getting the better of an epic 4-3 match against Mark Walsh.

The tournament will resume following its Christmas break on December 27, with 15-time world champion Phil Taylor back in action against Dave Chisnall.