THE chips are down for The Pie Man as he heads south for a crack at darts' world championships.

Andy 'The Pie Man' Smith has qualified for the event at Purfleet which started this week and will be up against some of the world's leading players.

It may be Smith's first time at the televised event, the highlight of the darting calendar, but he knows just what to expect.

"I went down there last year to watch a friend of mine so I know what it's all about," Smith explained.

"I've been on the TV before but this will be different. It is really hot down there and the atmosphere is something else.

"I'm a big lad and sweat a bit so I'll be laying off the drink for a few weeks and going for a few walks before the event.

"Because I have been doing so well I have not been working as much recently so I've put on a bit of weight," the tree surgeon admitted.

Smith had hoped to book his place at the PDC World Championships on the back of a place in the top 32. But the Studley ace missed out by just one place and had to win through a qualifying event earlier this month in Hull.

The championships began on Monday but Smith will pick his darts up for the first time tomorrow with a first round match against Colin Monk.

"Colin is a good player and always does well on the TV," he added. "But I beat him earlier this year and am confident of going through.

"I am playing really well at the moment and hope I can get through the first few rounds. I just want to do as well as I can."

Smith picks up £3,500 even if he loses his opening game but the Studley dartsman has his sights set on a bigger pay-day - the winner and new world champion will pick up a cheque for £100,000.