A POPULAR author has signed up to take part in a pirate fun run for charity.

Horrible Histories author Terry Deary will tackle the Durham Pirate Fun Run for Grace House North-East Children’s Hospice Appeal.

Mr Deary has previously run the Race for Grace, in Sunderland, and says he is looking forward to the Durham event, planned for Sunday, June 21.

"It is a great idea to have a fun run in Durham to raise money for the appeal. The original fun run in Sunderland is a marvellous event so now I can enjoy it twice over.

"The theme of pirates is marvellous because it ties in with a couple of piratical books I’ve written."

The 5km run will begin at Durham Rugby Club. There is also a 1km mini-run. For more information, call 0191-516-6302.

Meanwhile, Mr Deary will meet fans at Durham High School for Girls on Saturday, May 16, when he will perform a show including songs, role play and video.

The event will raise money for Brooke, a charity for working horses and donkeys overseas.

The entertainment starts at 6pm. Advance tickets, priced £6 for adults and under 16s, can be booked by calling 0191-384-3720. All tickets will cost 50p extra on the door.