Steve Farmer first for Sky darts screen test

Shropshire darter Steve Farmer will have the honour of being first on the oche at this month's PDC Ladbrokes.com Word Darts Championship.

Farmer's first round tie against former quarter-finalist Paul Nicholson has been selected to start the tournament on Thursday, December 16.

Debutant Farmer, of Church Stretton, must win that last 64 clash to prolong his interest in the tournament - which will be screened live on Sky Sports - beyond Christmas.

Meanwhile, it's not only outdoor sports which are feeling the chill as the cold snap bites.

Shropshire darts have seen their British Inter Counties Championship division four trip to Northumberland postponed due to the adverse weather which has made travelling difficult.

"We were due to head up there today but common sense has prevailed and the game has been called off," said team manager Mel Seaman.