A MAN who collapsed with a heart attack aged just 26 is taking on a gruelling 20km obstacle race for charity.

Joseph Tanner’s heart stopped for seven minutes when he collapsed at the finishing line of the Hastings Half Marathon.

Volunteers and medics battled to save him in front of spectators and competitors before he was transferred to hospital where he stayed for three weeks.

Mr Tanner, now 32, from Brighton, was eventually diagnosed with Brugada syndrome, a condition that causes a disruption of the heart’s normal rhythm.

He had an internal defibrillator fitted which will kick-start his heart if it suddenly stops, and is now doing well.

He and colleagues from Alive Fitness and Natural Health in Brighton are doing the Spartan Race in south London on October 11 for the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young.

Mr Tanner has been given permission from his cardiologist to take part.

The team of 20 are hoping to raise more than £1,000 to support the charity's work raising awareness of the dangers of undiagnosed heart conditions.

A fundraising day with an Eighties workout theme will also be held at the gym in Castle Street on October 7.

To support the team, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/AliveSPARTAN.