JAMES Hanson is taking on the Great North Run for Stephen Darby’s MND foundation.

Hanson will be among the 60,000-strong field covering the 13.1 miles from Newcastle to South Shields on Sunday, September 8.

City’s all-time third top scorer is raising money for former Valley Parade team-mate Darby’s charity and the ongoing fight against the incurable motor neurone disease.

Stephen Darby with fellow MND sufferer Marcus Stewart at Valley Parade before the March of the Day charity walkStephen Darby with fellow MND sufferer Marcus Stewart at Valley Parade before the March of the Day charity walk (Image: Tom Pearson)

Hanson said: “Having played with Darbs for more than five years, he wasn’t just a team-mate but a true friend.

“It is an honour to take part in this run to help his foundation.

“He is and continues to be an inspiration to everyone through his personal battle with MND. Any donation, big or small, would be most appreciated.”

Donations to support Hanson and the Darby Rimmer Foundation can be made by clicking HERE.