The Sheppey Darts Classic takes place next weekend – but a lack of sponsors and participants is putting its future at risk.

Organiser Tony Cox is facing a £1,500 shortfall in sponsorship while entrance levels are down to under half of the anticipated figure.

And that could mean the end of the iconic Sheppey event.

“It is pretty bad,” said Mr Cox, who has faced pressure to fund the BDO-ranked tournament for the last few years.

“I am receiving calls every day about the event but the entry levels are really disappointing, particularly from the Island.

“We used to get 30-40 from the Island but now we’ve got about 12. I’m even considering calling this one the last one.

“I’m 71 and I just don’t need the stress. I know (the hosts) Merlins don’t want to lose it and we are already booked in for June next year.

“I do understand that some of our sponsors just can’t afford it, but it’s very frustrating when local people don’t attend and support the event.

“It was originally started for Sheppey players and we want them to be involved.”