A MAN who almost died from malaria while living in Africa, has returned to Britain to help raise funds for the biggest killer disease over here.

John Barlow, 60, suffered hallucinations and delirium from the deadly illness.

He said: "I had an awful lot of malaria. In my last seven months I had malaria five times.

"While you have it you're delirious, sick and dehydrated."

Now he is working as a branch manager for Cancer Research's Friargate store and hopes to raise money to fight the dreaded 'C'.

John, who worked for 25 years as a government advisor in South Africa, spent time travelling between different parts of the continent, including Malawi, Kenya, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Tanzania.

He said: "South Africa is one super place to live, there's no doubt about it.

"The problem out there is the divide between those that have and those that don't.

"I particularly got involved in dealing with orphans. There are terrible things going on, sexual assault and children born with HIV."

It was a particularly bad bout of malaria which provided the impetus for John's move back to the UK.

Now he is hopeful his hard work will help the sick and dying in this country.

John, from Cleveleys, only started the job six weeks ago and has already organised an auction on Saturday, October 19, as part of Cancer Research UK's Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Up for grabs are some unusual football memorabilia for Lillywhite fans, including a special top prize -- a day out for two, along with two tickets, a tour of the ground and free parking for the day.

To join the fun, visit the shop from noon to 3pm on Saturday, October 19.