Darts ace aiming to make his mark

At just 22 years of age, Gray is one of the sport's rising stars and the clash against the flamboyant Jamie Harvey serves as an ideal opportunity to raise his profile in the area.

The Hastings hot shot has already beaten world champion John Part and world number 11 Kevin Painter in 2003 and is optimistic he can add the world number 14 to his list of impressive scalps. He said: "I'm looking forward to it and I'm confident. He's a good player but he's not as good as he used to be. I haven't been playing to my ability but I'm sure I will bring it out on the night."

Tough draws have restricted his recent progress since reaching the last 16 of the Skybet UK Open at Bolton in the summer and his present ranking is 60 despite winning the Sussex Super League singles crown recently.

He would like to thank Dave Harris, who is hoping Gray will become the first world champion from this area, for organising the event and his ongoing promotional work. Tickets are available on the door at a cost of 5 for adults and 2.50 for concessions. A leading comedian will also be in attendance with the doors opening at 7.30pm.

Entries are still being accepted for the money-spinning Open Darts Competition at the same Little Common Road venue on Sunday. The cost is 10 in advance and 12 on the day with total prize money of 1,000 up for grabs. The action gets under way at 10am.