A FUNDRAISING event is being held to raise money for a Darlington-born Great British canoe coach who became paralysed from the waist down after a cycling accident.

Darren Cresser, a father-of-two who is from Darlington, was travelling home from his job as a refueller at Leeds Bradford Airport in July when the accident happened.

The 39-year-old’s injuries were so severe that he was airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary when he underwent emergency surgery.

He suffered collapsed lungs, a broken neck, fractured skill, fractures to his face, broken jaw, shattered right shoulder blade, broken right collarbone, as well as major nerve damage and a dislocated and broken spine.

An event is being held later this month to help raise money for Mr Cresser's Just Giving page.

The fundraiser will take place at Durham Kayak Club, which is opposite Durham Cathedral, where Mr Cresser first learnt about the sport.

There will be a "light up paddle" along the river, as well as river walk and a BBQ.

Anyone attending is asked to bring a small donation and their own food for the BBQ.

Louise Holt, who set up the Just Giving page, said: “Darren has made a remarkable recovery - doctors are hoping that within the next two weeks, he will start intensive rehabilitation.

“It is going to be a tough time and the family are very grateful for the continuing love and support.

"Lenny and Dougie can’t wait to have their daddy home.”

Mr Cresser was a competitive canoeist and a Great Britain coach in the slalom discipline.

The event will be held on Thursday, September 21 at 6pm.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/louise-holt