CHEFf Darren Foster hopes pedal power will boost a charity close to his heart.

Darren, 35, of Woodham Village, County Durham, who is head chef at the new Gala Theatre in Durham City, plans to cycle 100 miles through the Scottish countryside next month to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

This week he paid a visit to the charity's shop in the city's Silver Street and was joined by actors Lionel Blair and George Sewell, who are appearing in Who Killed Agatha Christie at the theatre.

Darren will be part of a team of seven, including his brother-in-law William English, who lives in Troon.

Darren said: "My mother-in-law has skin cancer and my fiancee had cancer of the bone when she was 14 but has been in remission for 22 years.

"I have got just short of £400, from workmates, company directors and suppliers, but I'd like to get as much as I can.

"I would be grateful for more sponsorship."

Anyone who wants to supports Darren, who will be riding on Friday, May 10, can contact the Gala Theatre on 0191-332 4040.