By Steve Roberts 

Ortho-k lenses  may save Gary Anderson's pro darts career after he admitted prior to his Ladbrokes PDC quarter final knock-out by tournament favourite Michael van Gerwen that his deteriorating eyesight could prevent him competing at the top level. Known as ‘The Flying Scotsman', the popular Anderson confessed that he is virtually "playing from memory" as he ¬struggles to focus on the target. He will seek specialist ophthalmic advice in the New Year after the one-time Ladbrokes PDC world championship finalist slipped down to No.18 in the pro rankings. Anderson said: "I'm blind, I'm just aiming for the blurs or the bits I can see - mainly the red bits."

Having considered his options, Anderson is unsure of whether a solution exists which would enable him to remain a top player. "I can't really play with glasses because, with the way I throw my darts, I'd knock them off my face. I don't know whether I qualify for laser surgery but unfortunately I'm squeamish about my eyes". This is where custom-designed ortho-k lenses  could provide him with the perfect solution since they correct short-sightedness overnight while the wearer is sleeping. After the lenses are removed each morning, the wearer enjoys perfect natural vision all day long until reinserting the lenses at night.

Former pub landlord Anderson, now based at Burnham-on-Sea, said: "I am really struggling with my eyes now and cannot see the scores up on the board. I have to ask the referee umpteen times how many I need because I cannot see properly. I am 43 years old and I have only been to the doctor about five times in my life but I've got to do something." With ortho-k lenses , Anderson will discover a new world of vision from a breakthrough treatment which many experts believe may seriously challenge the strong market position enjoyed by laser eye surgery.