A KEEN schoolboy runner who underwent a life-saving operation eight years ago is to raise money for a heart unit.

Ten-year old Joel Atkin, from Sacriston Junior School, near Chester-le-Street, will take part in this year's Tesco Junior Great North Run later this month.

Joel was born with a hole in his heart and had to undergo surgery on his second birthday.

He will raise funds for the Children's Heart Unit at the Freeman Hospital, in Newcastle, as well as the main race charity, the UK's Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre.

Joel has been in training for the event for the past year with Derwentside Athletics Club. He has taken part in competitions and fun runs as far afield as Darlington, Beamish, Hetton Lyons Country Park and Newton Aycliffe.

During his challenge, Joel will be sponsored by Wallis staff at the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, in Durham.

Joel's father, Mike, said: "This is the first year that Joel has been entered for the event.

"The Newcastle/Gateshead quayside is a fantastic course, and he is immensely excited to be taking part. It promises to be a real highlight of his year."

Ann Ward, a boss at Durham fashion store Wallis, said: "He is running for an excellent cause and we are only too pleased to be able to support him.

"We look forward to cheering him on and will definitely be there to greet him at the finish line."