CHEMISTRY student Stuart Blair was using his brawn instead of his brain when he took part in the New York Marathon yesterday in memory of his cousin.

The 25-year-old, who is studying for a PhD at Newcastle University, dedicated his marathon effort to his cousin, Peter Arkless, who died of cancer in May.

The pair grew up together in Durham and Witton-le-Wear, and Stuart came up with the idea of taking part in the marathon on the day of Peter's funeral.

Stuart is an insulin-dependent diabetic, but it has not stopped him training.

Peter's mother, Sylvia, 59, said: "He told me on the day of Peter's funeral that he would do the marathon to remember his cousin and to raise funds for others who suffer from the condition. He has trained so hard and it is a fitting way to remember him by, because they were so close."

Peter worked for 11 years at Morrisons in Bishop Auckland, but his final years were spent in and out of hospital, receiving treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, for which he underwent a transplant operation at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary.

But despite the transplant, his battle was not over and he had to receive radiotherapy at The James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, and chemotherapy at Bishop Auckland General Hospital.

He died before he could benefit from a bone marrow transplant. His brother John, 36, who lives in New Zealand, and 34-year-old sister Caroline, were both suitable donors.

All funds raised by Stuart will be donated to the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust. To make a donation, call (01388) 488620.