THE greatest show in darts rolls into town today (Tuesday, December 15) with the start of the William Hill World Championship at Alexandra Palace in London.

And on Thursday evening (December 17) Cardigan sporting hero Jamie Lewis embarks on his campaign with a round one match against Luke Woodhouse from Bewdley in the Severn Valley, Worcestershire.

Lewis took a temporary break from darts recently, but returned in style during the final qualifier for the world event, the 29-year-old defeating former UK Open and World Grand Prix champion Robert Thornton 7-5 and also accounting for David Pallett and Alan Tabern.

With prize money of £2.5m up for grabs, Lewis faces a tough round one game against 32-year-old Woodhouse, popularly known as ‘Woody’.

He has been competing in PDC events for nine years, is ranked number 51 in the Order of Merit, – 12 ahead of Lewis – has won a Challenge Tour event and been in fine form of late.

If Lewis wins the tie he will come up against Wales team-mate Gerwyn ‘Iceman’ Price of Markham, Caerphilly in the second round on Monday evening (December 21).

The 35-year-old former hooker with Neath and Cross Keys in rugby union and South Wales Scorpions in rugby league, is ranked in the world top three.

In October he won the World Grand Prix by beating Dirk van Dukjenbode and recently teamed up with Jonny Clayton of Pontyberem to lift the World Cup of Darts title for Wales.

There are strict rules for spectators at the tournament, the final of which is on Sunday, January 3, with social distancing measures in place throughout.

Fans are required to arrive at specified times and gain admission through one of two entrances, while food and drink will be served directly to tables and booked via a dedicated App.

Spectators will also be required to ensure they understand and will abide by the specific procedures and regulations.