Darts chiefs led the condolences to Wayne Mardle after the tragic death of his wife Donna.
The former player, and charismatic face and voice of Sky Sports’ coverage, was absent from tonight’s coverage from the opening night of the Paddy Power World Championship. Sky colleague and anchor presenter Emma Paton was full of emotion as she confirmed the loss to viewers. Paton said: “Now if you are a regular viewer of Sky Sports Darts, you will notice that Wayne is not here with us this evening.
“Wayne is the heart and soul of everything we do here at Sky Sports Darts. But the heart of his world, his wonderful wife Donna, sadly passed away earlier this week after a short illness. We will be remembering Donna throughout this tournament. Wayne, you are in our thoughts, you are in our hearts, we love you very much. And we will see you very soon.”
PDC chiefs took to social media to say: “All our thoughts and condolences are with Wayne Mardle and his family, after the passing of his wife Donna earlier this week.”