LADBROKES have apologised to TV darts host Dave Clark after appearing to mock his battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
The bookmakers published a tweet last night which poked fun at the appearance of the popular Sky Sports star as he presented the World Championships at Alexandra Palace.
It read: “Dave Clark looks like he’s caught the whiff of something nasty and wants to murder the person that caused it.”
It is understood that those responsible had no idea the host has been struck by the illness, and soon deleted the tweet when their error became evident.
And this morning Ladbrokes apologised, and said they will be making a £10,000 donation to the charity fighting the debilitating condition as a gesture of their contrition.
A spokesperson said: “We sincerely apologise to Dave Clark for an ill-judged and inappropriate tweet, and we would also like to apologise to all sufferers of Parkinson’s.
“We will be making a donation to Parkinson’s UK in support of this excellent charity.”
Ladbrokes appear to have been unaware his facial expressions are a result of the brain condition.
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Clark was made aware of the post, and tweeted a classy response to his 68,000 followers during a break in broadcasting last night’s action.
He wrote: “That’ll be the chronic degenerative neurological condition that will eventually rob me of the ability to walk,talk and smile @Ladbrokes #parkinsons “
Wow! Two people tweeting. One is a gentleman, who inspires us all. The other a little prat on a keyboard hoping for a cheap laugh. I know who I stand with. You’re an inspiration Dave. F**k them. Keep doing yourself and everyone else proud.
#parkinsons #hero https://t.co/FE1RVUuw0t
— Alan Shearer (@alanshearer) December 22, 2017
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The incident was more embarrassing for Ladbrokes given they sponsored the darts for years and had worked closely with Clark in the past.
They contacted him this morning to say sorry and to inform him of their donation to Parkinson’s UK.
Clark tweeted: “Thank you so much for all the amazing messages. I have to admit I had a little tear in my eye reading some of them. Merry Christmas to one and all.”
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