A HEAD TEACHER from Darlington who donated a kidney to a relative is looking to raise funds to help others in need.

Alison Maddison, head of school at Hurworth Primary School, donated the organ to her brother who is suffering from kidney failure.

She now plans to take part in the Great North Run to raise money which will be split between Kidney Research and her school, which is part of Lingfield Education Trust.

Ms Maddison said: “The decision to put myself forward as a live donor was not an easy one - I had to consider my children, my family and the school.

“It is an absolute privilege to be able to give the gift of life and I hope I’ve inspired others to do the same.

“Watching someone you love deteriorate gives you the motivation to do something, and although I’ll hate being away from work for an extended period of time, I feel that this is something I need to do.

“I have been training for the half marathon since October of last year and I’m now at a good level of fitness prior to my operation. I look forward to getting back to running following my recovery.”

Nick Blackburn, chief executive of Lingfield Education Trust, said: “We completely understand the decision which Alison has made and have assured her that the school will be in safe hands while she is away.

“Parents have been contacted and we have guaranteed that there will be no detrimental impact on the high level of education provided by the school.”