TWO former champions are into the last four of the Ridley League men’s singles as the competition nears its conclusion.

Compasses captain Martin Compton, winner in 2015, looks the man to beat at Chelmsford City FC on May 8 and he was in imperious form at Little Waltham SC - a 12-dart leg (52-140-180-129 out) the highlight as he brought his record for the season to 16 wins from 17.

However, the one player to have beaten him is also through. Black Bull’s Martin Saunders defeated Graham Millbank (Chequers) en route to qualifying on his home board.

Compton’s clubmate Chris Cook will also offer tough opposition after bringing his season’s singles tally to 13 wins in 14 this season. Chequers’ Steve Hills, losing finalist in 2010, was the only player to take a leg off him at the Dog & Partridge.

City FC’s Des Vickers, with experience gained in three finals (one won, two lost), completes a quality line-up.

>The league’s best wishes go to Black Bull’s Matt Doe, 34, who missed the event after a reported heart attack. He is said to be back home and recovering well.