LEGENDARY darts players have donated prizes to help support a March man’s attempt to raise money for the hospital ward that treated him for breast cancer.

Mark Cross is holding a darts tournament at the GER Sports Club aiming to raise money for the Oncology Department at Peterborough City Hospital.

The 42-year-old police officer, who had his left breast removed after being diagnosed with the disease in 2009, has been touched by a growing list of donations from local businesses, sports clubs and darts players.

Former World Number One Colin Lloyd has given a signed shirt and photograph, while fellow professionals Martin Adams, Steve Beaton, Kevin Painter and Peter Manley have also donated prizes.

Mr Cross said: “The response has been overwhelming. It will be an emotional day and I’ll have to keep it together.

“I’ve had some great help from friends and family. My 86-year-old grandmother has helped get nearly 20 prizes from the residents of Elliott Lodge. I have got people giving me money at work and people are already buying draw tickets.

“The thing that’s nice is that people are responding because there are local people out there that are treated in that ward. You don’t realise how many people they help.”

The fundraising tournament will take place on Saturday February 19 from 11.30am. The signed darts merchandise will be auctioned and there will be prizes for the winners of individual competitions including a high score board. Entry is �5.

The list of around 70 donated prizes also includes holiday vouchers, food vouchers and an ‘England Pack’ provided by the Football Association.

Mr Cross realised a dream in December when he took to the Alexandra Palace stage to compete in a national darts tournament with the team he has been playing with for 27 years.