BUSINESSES and gym members in the Stanley area are rallying to raise funds for a stroke victim.

Julie Manson, 32, of Craghead, suffered a stroke which has also brought on a tumour. Her condition means that she needs alterations to her house to make her life easier and the community is raising the cash.

Members of the Pulse Fitness gym, in Stanley, are leading the way, with a family event at Craghead Social Club.

Margaret Coulson, who runs the gym, said: "It is a real community effort. It started out with just one lad having his head shaved, but in a fortnight we have really got it together."

Women from the gym are taking part in a range of sponsored activities, while the men have volunteered to have their heads shaved - and some are raising cash through a sponsored body wax.

There will also be a disco at the event and Craghead Children's Variety Group will perform. Businesses in Stanley and Craghead have donated prizes for a raffle.

The fundraising night takes place on Wednesday, starting at 7pm. Admission is £1.