Two-Time World Darts Champion Dennis Priestley has asked that the following statement be placed on his web site to clarify the situation in regards to his health.
Dennis, said:
Following several months of tests I have recently been diagnosed with cancer of the prostate.
This was confirmed before the recent John McEvoy Gold Dart Classic in Ireland and unfortunately I was forced to withdraw during this event suffering from pains in my abdomen.
I have visited two specialists this past week, firstly regarding radiotherapy treatment and the second regarding possible surgery.
My feelings at present are that I will opt to have surgery at some point, probably in the early New Year, although the diagnosis is not a cause for immediate concern and I am confident that I will return to full health.
I have decided to announce this news so as not to create any unneccesary speculation as to the state of my health, or to detract from my preparations for the PartyBets.com Grand Slam of Darts or the Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship.
I fully intend to participate to the best of my ability in both tournaments and believe I can win them.
I would like to thank my family, friends and all of the darting fraternity and my sponsors for their support during this time.
I have been in touch with my web guy regarding keeping everybody updated with any developments on my web site.
