A STROKE victim from Galashiels has repaid the care and kindness of staff at Borders General Hospital by nominating the ward to receive funds raised from a local darts tournament.

Darren Thomson suffered a stroke while recovering from an operation last June.

The 20-year-old became so ill he had to be transferred to the Intensive Care Unit at Edinburgh Western General four months later.

The following month, after showing signs of improvement, Darren was returned to Borders General Hospital, where he spent two more months recovering in the Borders Stroke Unit.

Following the recent Galashiels Darts League annual charity tournament at Niki's Bar, where over 40 players took to the oche, winner Joe Spence presented the fundraising total to Darren and his carer dad, Phil, to decide where the money should go.

And they both nominated the Borders Stroke Unit.

A cheque for £300 was handed over last week by Darren and Jim, along with members of the Darts League.

Darren's dad Phil told us: "Darren and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped and supported us throughout these difficult times.

"A special mention must go to all staff from the stroke ward at the Borders General Hospital."