ALMOST £1,000 has been raised for the Motor Neurone Disease Association by two friends of a former driving instructor and shipyard draughtsman from Walney. 

Gordon Cooney was just 55 when he was diagnosed with incurable muscle wasting condition Motor Neurone Disease in 2014. The shock diagnosis came just months after Mr Cooney's 22-year-old daughter, Vicky, died suddenly in her sleep following a convulsion. 

His condition has since forced him to give up his beloved hobby of playing bass guitar but his friends and family, as well as the wider Furness community, have continued to give the 57-year-old their unwavering support. 

Mr Cooney's wife, Gillian said it has been heart-breaking for both her and their 22-year-old son Thomas to watch him deteriorate over the last two years but she praised his positive attitude. 

"It's affected his breathing and he has very little use of his arms but he has been so positive," Mrs Cooney, 52, said. 

"It has taken a lot away from him. Pretty much straight after he was diagnosed, Gordon lost the use of his arms. He can't really walk, so he's tied to his wheelchair."

Mrs Cooney continues to cares for her husband from their Strathnaver Avenue home, with support from Hey Days Care Agency on the days she works at Barrow Blind Society. 

Two of the couple's friends from Barrow, Matthew Robson and Dan Hayes, who Mr Cooney both taught to drive, are set to take part in the Manchester Marathon this Sunday in a bid to raise money and awareness of Motor Neurone Disease. 

Mrs Cooney added: "They've set themselves the target of raising £750 each and they're doing really well."

Mr Robson and Mr Hayes have so far raised almost £1,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. You can donate to the fundraiser by visiting Mr Hayes' page  here