THE Professional Darts Corporation have been asked to issue the following statement on behalf of Sid Waddell.
Dick Allix, manager of broadcaster Sid Waddell wishes to make the following statement:
"Following recent tests, Sid has been diagnosed with bowel cancer.
"He is now undergoing treatment and during this period will be focussing on his health.
"I would ask that everyone respects his privacy at this time.
"Any and all communications should be conducted please through me on 01430 423991 or 07850 548217, or by email through this link."
ENDS
Waddell, 71, has been part of Sky Sports' coverage of PDC events since 1994, and was inducted into the PDC Hall of Fame in 2008 alongside fellow commentator Dave Lanning.
Waddell - often called 'The Voice of Darts' - has been involved in darts since televising the sport in the popular 'Indoor League' series in the 1970s, and he began commentating on darts in 1978.
He has also written a number of books, including 'Bellies and Bullseyes' and his memoirs 'The Road Back Home', and wrote the children's television series 'Jossies Giants' in the mid-1980s.
PDC Chairman Barry Hearn said: "Sid is a hugely popular character throughout the sport of darts and I'm sure I speak on behalf of the PDC, our players and fans in wishing him a speedy and successful recovery.
"Our thoughts will be with him and his family as he begins his treatment."
Sky Sports darts presenter Dave Clark added: "Everyone at Sky Sports wishes Sid all the very best. We'll miss him and look forward to having him back with us whenever he is ready."