BEN Ward is eager to right the wrongs of 12 months ago when he goes for glory at next week’s UK Open.

The Dorchester ace suffered a 5-0 whitewash against Steve Maish on his tournament debut last time around.

And after booking his place in this year’s event on Sunday, Ward is determined to enjoy his experience a lot more than he did in 2014.

“I remember last year well because Steve came out and hit 100 per cent of his checkouts,” he told Echosport. “I think he had four ton-plus checkouts as well.

“Every chance I gave him he took it and before I knew it I was out after one match.

“I’m looking forward to playing in the tournament again and hopefully I can win a game there.

“The seeds come into the event in round three but there will still be a lot of top players involved in the first couple of rounds.

“It could be that I end up being on television if I play a big name early on, though I’d rather have a kind draw and get to the third round as that's where you start earning money.”

On getting the necessary £500 in prize money to get through qualifying, he added: “After winning £250 in the first qualifier the weekend before last I thought I wouldn’t have many problems getting the rest.

“But I only got the money I needed in the last qualifier on Sunday when I played well and won three games.”

Ward will be one of 149 players travelling to Butlins Minehead Resort in Somerset for a shot at the title.

The so-called ‘FA Cup of darts’ is set to feature all of the PDC’s top names, including reigning champion Adrian Lewis.

The draw for the Coral-sponsored UK Open, which runs from March 6-8, takes place today.