Scots comics to raise MND funds for Gordon Aikman

Gordon Aikman, who is fundraising for MND research. Picture: Ian Georgeson

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A HOST of top comedians are taking part in a one-off show to raise funds for a motor neurone disease (MND) campaigner.

Gordon Aikman launched a fight for more research funding after being diagnosed with the incurable neurodegenerative disease last year.

His campaign, which calls for funding for MND research in the UK to be doubled, has now raised almost £250,000 with £25,000 coming from ticket sales for a comedy gala including performances by Frankie Boyle, Fred MacAuley and Stewart Lee.

Stand Up For MND: Gordon’s Fightback comedy gala is being staged at Glasgow’s King’s Theatre next Monday as part of the Glasgow International Comedy Festival.

The Burnistoun team, Craig Hill, Des Clarke and Janey Godley are also taking part.

Mr Aikman - a former Labour staffer and director of research at the pro-UK Better Together campaign - spoke at the Labour conference in Edinburgh last week.

He called on party leaders to unite behind his plea to double research funding into the disease and wants to see fast tracking of benefits for sufferers.

As the line up for the comedy gala was announced, Mr Aikman said: “It’s amazing to have so many big names coming together to fund a cure for MND.

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“Thanks to everyone involved we are £25,000 closer to finding that cure. Please dig deep and donate what you can at gordonsfightback.com.

“It’ll be too late for me, but we can and we must find a cure for future generations.”

Fred MacAulay, said: “This promises to be a brilliant night to support a brilliant young man. What Gordon is doing in the face of his MND diagnosis is incredible.

“I hope everyone has a great laugh on the night but gives generously too because we really need to find a cure for this horrible disease.”

Sarah Watson, manager of the Glasgow International Comedy Festival, said: “This is probably one of the best line ups you’ll see at any festival and it’s happening right here in Glasgow.

“The way Gordon is fighting back against MND to help future generations is incredible.

“When I heard Gordon’s story I just wanted to do something to help. I’m delighted the show’s sold out, but we need to raise more money for research to make a cure for MND a reality.”