A DOCTOR'S campaign to buy insulin pumps to help improve the lives of young diabetic patients has been given a cash boost.

Bishop Auckland Rotary Club has donated £2,500 raised at a charity sports dinner to the Run 500 Miles Appeal, launched by paediatric consultant Dr Bill Lamb.

The dinner, at The Park Head Hotel last Thursday, featured an auction of sports memorabilia and was boosted by a £250 donation from Darlington Building Society.

The cash will pay for one insulin pump a young patient to stabilise blood sugar levels giving them greater freedom.

Keith Patton, president of The Rotary Club of Bishop Auckland, said: "The Children's Diabetic Insulin Pump is an important piece of equipment and will improve the lives of many local children."

Peter Rowley, chief executive of Darlington Building Society, said: "When we heard of this appeal, we were keen to play our part. We are dedicated to looking after local interests so this was an ideal opportunity for us to support a cause that will provide huge benefits to the local community."

Dr Lamb has raised more than £69,000 through sponsored runs and donations to give 24 children pumps.