BIG-HEARTED fundraisers are helping a world-leading cardiac care department maintain its lifesaving qualities.

Darlington Rotary Club will sell raffle tickets in Darlington’s Cornmill Shopping Centre on Saturday, May 30 in a bid to raise money for the James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

The club is attempting to raise £500,000 to provide the hospital’s world-renowned cardiac care department with a lifesaving heart scanner.

Urging people to buy a raffle ticket and show their support, David Hayward, Darlington Rotary Club’s charity co-ordinator said: “This is such an important cause, for the hospital and the region. James Cook is currently the area’s leading hospital in cardiac care.

“Right now the machine serves 1.6million people across the area.

“Anyone suffering a heart attack is sent to James Cook, and without this vital piece of equipment the hospital risks its world leading heart consultancy department being downgraded.”

Raffle prizes include a Skoda Citigo, home cinema system, weekend breaks and restaurant meals.

Tickets for the raffle, set to be drawn in June, can be purchased from the club’s stand in the Cornmill Shopping Centre between 9am and 5pm.