A POLICEMAN who was diagnosed with leukaemia four months ago is to take part in the Bupa Great North Run.

Paul Walmsley, 38, from Durham, has chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, which occurs when white blood cells fail to die at the end of their normal lifespan.

Mr Walmsley, who has two children, Angus, four, and Alastair, one, does not require treatment at the moment, but most people with the disease need chemotherapy when it progresses.

The Durham policeman, who has vowed not to let his condition hold him back, will take part in next month's run to raise funds for Leukaemia Research.

He said: "At the moment, I am living a completely normal life, working, running around after my kids and getting ready for the big race in September.

"But I know I may have to live with this disease for the rest of my life. Once treatment begins it may last a long, long time.

"I'm really looking forward to running the half-marathon for the Leukaemia Research Fund.

"I know that every drop of sweat and every ounce of effort will help doctors to find a way to beat leukaemia and related cancers of the blood, such as lymphoma and myeloma. This will be all the motivation I need to make sure that I finish."

Anyone who wishes to sponsor Mr Walmsley can visit www.justgiving.com/ paulsrun2003.