Colin Lloyd decides to spend time away from the PDC circuit after losing his tour card

Former world number one Colin Lloyd has decided not to pursue a return to the PDC circuit after losing his tour card.

The 42-year-old's last ranking victory came at the Players Championship in 2012 and he chose not to enter this week's qualifying school after dropping out of the world's top 64.

Lloyd, who carries the nickname 'Jaws', won over two dozen PDC ranking titles, including the 2004 World Grand Prix and 2005 World Matchplay, and topped the rankings a decade ago.

After becoming the highest profile player to lose his card at the end of last year, Lloyd admitted he is struggling to compete with his fellow players, but did not completely rule out a return to competitive darts.

"It's been a big decision for me and not one that I've taken lightly but I've decided not to enter Qualifying School or compete this year," said Lloyd.

I still love the game and I'm still keeping busy on the exhibition circuit - and who knows, I might even return to competing in the PDC in the future too.

"The standard has continued to rise on the PDC circuit in recent years and despite giving it my all in every event I've played in, the reality is that I've not been good enough.

"Darts has been a massive part of my life for the last 17 years since I joined the PDC circuit and I'd like to thank everyone around the world who's helped make it so enjoyable, as well as to thank the sponsors, including Target Darts, who've supported me through thick and thin.

"I still love the game and I'm still keeping busy on the exhibition circuit - and who knows, I might even return to competing in the PDC in the future too."

Sky Sports expert Wayne Mardle tweeted: "As a friend I'm sad @ColinJawsLloyd has decided not to compete anymore...as a friend I'm happy Colin can't be beaten anymore."