AS John Waterson crossed the finish line at last year's 2km Darlington fun run, he received one of the biggest cheers of the day - despite being last.

The organiser of the Darlington Cardiomyopathy Self Support Group, who suffers from the heart illness, will do it again in this year's event.

The fun run takes place ahead of the CD Bramall 10km Road Run, and it will be the third time John has taken part in aid of the group.

Running alongside him will be his daughter Lisa, and Maria Jones, a rehabilitation nurse at Darlington Memorial Hospital.

Mr Waterson said: "I'm very lucky. I've got two MBEs on my list who have pledged money, Joy McCulloch and Mike Neville."

Darlington Mayor, Councillor Isobel Hartley, has also donated £50 from the mayor's charitable fund.

This year's race is on Sunday, August 12, with the 10km race starting at 10.30am, an hour after the fun run. The event is supported by The Northern Echo, sportswear firm View From and Alpha Radio.

Details and entry forms are available from Leisure Services, The Dolphin Centre, Horsemarket, Darlington, DL1 5RP, or by telephoning (01325) 388427.

The closing date for entries has passed. There is a £2 late entry fee for anybody still wanting to take part.

Anybody wanting to sponsor John or find out more about the group can ring (01325) 264806.

l THIS week is the eighth of ten in a training programme set out for people planning to take part in the CD Bramall 10km Road Run.

Wednesday's run should stay at 25 minutes, with another 25 minute run on Friday and the weekend run should increase to 50 minutes.