A HEART attack victim is planning to take part in a charity race to raise money for the hospital unit that cared for him.

Father-of-two Peter Stemmer was taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital after suffering a heart attack last Easter.

He was transferred to a hospital in Middlesbrough for a heart bypass operation but credits the Memorial Hospital's coronary care unit with helping his quick recovery.

Now 52-year-old Mr Stemmer, of Parkside, is hoping to raise funds for the unit by taking part in Dar*ington's 10K Road Run on Sunday.

He will be joined by his wife, Marilyn, and friends Alan and Diane Wright, of Northallerton.

More than 1,000 competitors are expected to take part in the 10km run. There is also a one-mile fun run and a 3.5km run for youngsters aged 14 to 16.

The race, which is organised by Darlington Borough Council and the town's Rotary Club, is sponsored by Sherwoods car dealership and this year is traffic-free.

Runners must be over 15 to take part in the 10km race, which costs £9 for athletic club members (£10 for non-members). The fun run is £4 for adults (£3 for children) and entry to the junior race is £5. Forms are available from the Dolphin Centre.