THE prize fund for the 2008 Stan James World Matchplay will rise to £300,000, with the Winter Gardens winner taking home £60,000 next year.
The World Matchplay prize fund increased to £200,000 this year, and will rise once more for the 2008 tournament following another hugely successful event.
The first prize will rise by £10,000 to a cool £60,000, with the runner-up taking home £30,000.
The semi-finalists' prize money will increase to £17,000, with all 32 competing players guaranteed £4,000.
"This year's event was arguably the greatest ever, and it was certainly the best field of 32 players anywhere in the world," said PDC Chairman Barry Hearn.
"James Wade deserves great congratulations for their victory, and I'm sure this news will be a huge incentive for him to regain the trophy in 2008!"
Steve Fisher, Managing Director of Stan James UK, said: "We have been involved with the Stan James World Matchplay for eight years and the 2007 tournament was truly memorable.
"We're delighted to be able to continue our association with such a famous and prestigious event with this increase in prize money.
"We look forward to seeing the best players in the world back at the Winter Gardens next July."
Stan James World Matchplay - 2008 Prize Fund
| Winner | £60,000 |
| Runner-Up | £30,000 |
| Semi-Finalists | £17,000 |
| Quarter-Finalists | £12,000 |
| Second Round Losers | £8,000 |
| FIrst Round Losers | £4,000 |
| Total | £300,000 |