A FORMER Great Britain swimmer battling terminal cancer will bravely tackle the Great North Run for charity.

Gordon Johnson, 57, of Crook, County Durham, was diagnosed with oesophagus cancer in 2010 and seemed to have beaten it following treatment.

However, it returned in April and doctors warned Mr Johnson he could have just six months to live.

Undeterred he will race the 13.1miles between Newcastle and South Shields in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support this Sunday. (September 7)

He will be pushed round in his wheelchair by wife Sue, 47, and friend Steve Griffin, 60, of Oakenshaw, near Willington.

Mr Johnson, who will jog as much as possible and is determined to cross the finishing line unaided, said: "We’ve done some training. I’ve been out hobbling around trying to only use the wheelchair a little bit.

“Sue has done a ten mile walk and we try to keep on the go. Steve has run every Great North Run and he volunteered to help.

“I’m hoping to raise £1,000 as Macmillan has been really supportive. I aim to take about two hours 50minutes. I’m really looking forward to it.”

Mr Johnson, of High West Road, swam for Consett and the City of Southampton swimming clubs plus Northumberland and Durham Counties Swimming Association between 1972 and 1975.

As a Great Britain swimmer he just missed out on the 1974 Commonwealth Games at Christchurch, New Zealand.

Mrs Johnson said: “I’m a bit nervous. I’ll get him to the finishing line and I’ll make sure he jogs as much as he can.”

Michelle Muir, Macmillan fundraising manager for County Durham, said: “They are truly inspirational.

“Their support will enable us to carry on providing local services, helping cancer patients and their families.”

Donations can be made to justgiving.com/Gordon-Johnson1 or via text gorj56 to 70070.