IN THE GAME OF THE FATHER

Cameron admits dad's health struggles got the better of him| Chat with Ally McCoist was boost after exiting competition

- CRAIG SWAN

CAMERON Menzies has spoken of his heartbreaking TV breakdown when he shed tears as he was abused by thousands of baying fans at the World Darts Championship.

The Scots star admits he was so broken over his dad's ill-health he didn't even want to play at the event but a pep talk from Rangers legend Ally McCoist has helped him recover.

The shattered Scot yesterday lifted the lid on the personal anguish which led to him breaking down on stage in front of watching millions.

Menzies has been through the mill in recent weeks with the battles of his father Ricky uppermost in his mind. The 35-year-old has been sickened with the worry of a parent undergoing a serious operation and stuck in hospital.

It all became too much during the loss to Leonard Gates as he was hit with thousands of fans showering him with anti-Scottish chants.

He said: "My dad went in for a triple heart bypass and a new valve and it didn't go well.

"They had to basically put a pump in and he was on dialysis, so that's when I saw him - at his worst.

"When I saw him, my mum was there and I basically broke down. It's been a struggle since. He's basically on the mend but, being six hours away, it's a struggle."

Crowds in the Ally Pally bombarded Craig with antiScottish abuse during the match - and he admits it affected him due to his emotional state.

He said: "Usually, when I'm up there, I don't really get involved with the crowd.