Bennett misses out on Grand Slam selection due to safeguarding

Leighton Bennett will not be involved at the Grand Slam of Darts next month, it was revealed yesterday when the line-up was confirmed.

LiveDarts revealed yesterday that discussions had been held between all parties and that all agreed that due to safeguarding issues, it was agreed that for now; he would not form part of the line-up.

This was discussed last week before the announcement was made by PDC Chief Executive Matthew Porter who said that it is a big issue; as well as that everybody was in 100 percent agreement with what was decided.

"Safeguarding is a big issue," said Porter to LiveDarts; in an interview last week at the World Grand Prix.

"We've spoken at length to appropriate people about things to do with that; we've spoken to Leighton's management and people close to Leighton and a decision has been made over Leighton's participation; which everybody is in 100 per cent agreement with.

"Safeguarding is the single most important issue.

"You put a 13-year-old into a professional; adult sporting environment; there are challenges that that will throw up so you have to deal with that in the most appropriate manner, primarily for the boy and secondly for the event."