Rude darts placards cause Sky problems

Fans holding rude messages on placards at the World Darts Championship have caused problems for Sky.

Audience members at the Alexandra Palace have used blank cards from event sponsor Ladbrokes to pen messages for cameras.

HD viewers have been able to pick up the supporters' messages, which have included comments about Sky Sports presenter Helen Chamberlain's relationship with young darts star James Wade.

"This is the first year the darts has been filmed in HD so bosses are really paranoid about what's on these cards," an insider told The Sun.

"So if someone's holding up an offensive card then it could potentially be broadcast to millions.

"Most people are just offering their support to their favourite player or they write the old favourite 'Hi Mum'. But some have crossed the line and they have had to be spoken to."