A BUILDING society chief executive in Darlington has received an award as best charity group fundraiser in the London Marathon.

Peter Rowley, chief executive of Darlington Building Society, received the award from the Building Societies' Association (BSA) in recognition of his achievement in being the top male fundraiser for the homeless people and housing charity Shelter.

He was the lead fundraiser on the building society's team and has raised more than £8,000, with donations continuing to flood in.

Mr Rowley and his colleague, general manager David Dodd, were both competing in their first marathons, although they have clocked up numerous half marathons between them during the past few years.

The association put together a 66-member team of runners, but Mr Rowley was the only chief executive to take part.

Alan Gooschalk, director of fundraising at Shelter, said: "The support we have received from BSA members like Darlington Building Society is incredible.

"The amazing efforts of Peter and David will help Shelter to benefit thousands of homeless and badly-housed children across the country."

Mr Rowley was presented with his award by paralympic gold medallist Tanni Grey-Thompson.