Wayne Mardle steps back from Sky Sports duties after tragic death of wife Donna on eve of World Darts Championship

Today at 02:56 PM

WAYNE MARDLE will be off screens for the foreseeable future following the death of his wife Donna.

Donna, 52, sadly passed away earlier this week after a short battle with an illness.

The devastating news was announced as the Darts World Championship got underway at Ally Pally.

Mardle, 51, was set to be one of Sky Sports‘ main men during the tournament, working as a pundit and commentator.

But the much-loved broadcaster will understandably step away from duties, with no date set for his return.

Presenter Emma Paton held back tears as she delivered a touching tribute to Donna as the World Championship began.

She said: “If you are a regular viewer of Sky Sports Darts, you will notice that Wayne is not here with us this evening.

"Wayne is the heart and soul of everything we do here at Sky Sports Darts.

"But the heart of his world, his wonderful wife Donna, sadly passed away earlier this week after a short illness.

"We will be remembering Donna throughout this tournament.

“Wayne, you are in our thoughts, you are in our hearts, we love you very much. And we will see you very soon."

Nearly seven years ago, Wayne revealed on social media that Donna had come through a battle with cancer.

Back in June this year, Wayne posted a tribute to his wife on their 22nd wedding anniversary.

Mardle has become of the voices of the sport since launching his commentary career in 2011.

As a player, the legend is a five-time semi-finalist at the World Championships.