A DISABLED man from the North-East has raised almost £550 for charity by taking part in a blind drive.

Paul James, 31, from Consett, County Durham, took part in the event on the test track at Nissan, near Sunderland, on Sunday.

Mr James, who is visually impaired himself, raised the money for the Guide Dogs for the Blind.

He was born with glaucoma and suffers from Lowe Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder.

Mr James, who works for Durham County Council, said: “I was driving a dual controlled car around the test tack of up to the speeds of 90-95 miles.

“The track had different types of surfaces on it. I was guided around the corners. I loved it when he told me to put my foot right down on the gas.

“It was great to go such speeds. I loved every minute of it and because I raised over £150 I was able to be a passenger in a rally car.

“The first corner of being in the rally car was a bit scary, but then it felt amazing, breathtaking. Thank you everyone who donated.”

Over 100 people took part and over £5,000 has been raised.

Andy Drake, production director at Nissan said: "Fundraising has never been so exhilarating.

“As well as the blind drive run by BSM there was a rare chance to go round the test track at full throttle in a rally car and a 0-100mph challenge.

“This is the 12th year Nissan has supported Guide Dogs for the Blind by hosting the event.

“As well as raising thousands of pounds for the charity, it is rewarding to see people, including those who are blind and visually impaired, enjoying driving so much.”