TATTOOISTS from across the country will put ink to skin in Darlington as part of a charity day inspired by brave cancer victims.

Resident ink-slingers at the town’s Heavy Duty tattoo studio have invited guest artists to join them in raising funds for cancer charities.

Having watched two of their friends battle against the deadly disease, the team of tattooists decided to do what they could to raise money for Trekstock, which supports young people with cancer.

The charity was suggested by their terminally ill friend, a Darlington man who lost a leg to rare bone cancer and is now fighting the disease for the second time.

Matt Hadden, 28, has vowed to spend the remainder of his life fundraising for cancer charities and will take part in the Great North Run in September.

Inspired by Mr Hadden's tireless fundraising efforts, and by the strength shown by him and another friend in battling cancer, the Heavy Duty team hope to raise as much money as possible on Sunday, September 17.

Owner Kenny Ackerman and resident artists Ben Roberts, Rachel Bell and Mia Gibbs will join five tattooists from Wales, Scotland and Leeds in working throughout the day to give their customers a permanent reminder of the good cause.

They will offer a series of bespoke set designs to anyone willing to be tattooed for a minimum donation between 11am and 7pm.

Mr Roberts said they expected the day to be a busy one and urged those interested to get there early.

He said: “It’s amazing to have people coming from all over to help us raise money for this charity.

“When you have to watch friends go through something like this, you want to help them as much as you possibly can.

“There’s nothing we can do to help them medically but if we can help the charities that help them, it’s better than not doing anything.

“This charity and others support people in the situation our friends are in – it’s not nice to see them having to go through this and it’s nice to try and give something back to those who are helping.”

The event, which also features a raffle and silent auction, will take place at Heavy Duty on Tubwell Row. Customers must be over-18, with ID required.

The organisers are currently appealing for help from businesses who may be able to provide prizes for the raffle.

Anyone who is willing donate a prize should contact the studio on 01325 484432.

For more information on Matt Hadden’s fundraising, or to donate in support of his charitable efforts, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/matthewhadden.