A TEST VALLEY pensioner hosted a classic car show to raise money for a Southampton cardiac unit that "saved his life."

More than 45 cars from the 60 and 70's were on display outside the Luzborough pub on April 28 to raise money for Wessex Heartbeat.

The event was organised by Darrell Cunningham, 72 from Kings Somborne.

Darrell who describes himself as a "classic car enthusiast" organised the event to raise money for the cardiac unit after the team there treated him for a heart condition in 2016.

They treated him for two years and fitted him with a pace maker after doctors discovered that he had a heart condition during some pre operation tests that he was having prior to having a knee operation.

Darrell said: "If they hadn't had treated me and fitted the pace maker I would not be alive today."

More than 45 people attended the event and the driver's of the classic cars took a 45 minute drive around Hampshire.

The money the event raised through donations is yet to be confirmed but Darrell described the day as a "great success."

He said: The weather was great and some of us had a lovely pub lunch afterwards.

"I have always been a fan of classic cars.

"My first one was when I was just 16."

Darrell added: "I am very thankful for everything that Wessex Heartbeat have done.

"They always need money for the hard work that they do.

"I definitely have a lot to thank them for."

On June the 2 Darrell is set to take part in the London to Brighton classic car run in aid of the cardiac unit.

To sponsor Darrell visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/darrell-cunningham3