David Pallett coming of age in UK Open

The Newport darter, who turned 26 today, competed in a trio events at the Robin Park Centre in Wigan from Friday to Sunday,

And runs to the quarter-final, second round and last 32 leave him in a healthy position for next month's UK Open finals, to take place at Minehead's Butlins from March 4-6.

Pallett opened with his best exploits on Friday, setting up a second round World Championship rematch with Kim Huybrechts after beating Joe Murnan 6-3.

As he did at the Alexandra Palace in London, the Shropshire thrower downed the Belgian, this time by virtue of a 6-4 scoreline.

Two 6-2 wins over Ryan Palmer and the useful Ian White put him on course to share the oche with the legendary Phil Taylor, who reversed the scoreline to progress past the last eight.

Pallett returned to the same venue on Saturday, first defeating Terry Temple 6-3. White exacted his revenge to make him miss the money stages by an identical verdict in the second round.

The third and last tournament closed the weekend in Wigan yesterday, with Pallett back in the prize funds after reaching the last 32.

A comprehensive 6-2 victory over Andy Parsons and a 6-4 success against Ryan Palmer surpassed Saturday's setback.

He had to battle to surge to the finishing line against the slow throw of Justin Pipe, prevailing 6-5 from a last leg encounter. His friend Ricky Evans then put him out 6-3.

Pallett banked £2,750 in total for his exploits to put him joint 13th on the first UK Open Order of Merit. As it stands, he would enter the finals at the third round stage.

He's risen three places in the Pro Tour standings, going up to 35th, and stands 42nd overall.