A BARROW man says he completed a gruelling fitness challenge "for Gordon" in a bid to pay tribute to a much-loved Walney dad who died last month.

Gordon Cooney bravely fought Motor Neurone Disease since he was diagnosed with the muscle-wasting condition in 2014, just weeks after his 22-year-old daughter Vicky died suddenly in her sleep following a convulsion.

Mr Cooney played bass in bands locally for 35 years – including Admiral Jellico, The Game, Mayfair, Rain Town, Park Avenue, and the duo Rebound. He also taught thousands of youngsters to drive during his 18 years as a driving instructor and was well known for his quiz nights at the West Shore Club on Walney.

The 57-year-old died at his home in Strathnaver Avenue, Walney, last month, surrounded by his close family.

Since his diagnosis, family friends Dan Hayes and Matt Robson, who were both taught to drive by Mr Cooney, have taken on a series of fitness challenges in a bid to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

Fundraising challenges so far have included the Keswick to Barrow, Manchester Marathon and, on Sunday, Mr Hayes, 30, took part in the Great North Run in Newcastle. Mr Robson was unable to take part after suffering a broken leg while taking part in a roller derby.

Mr Hayes, who works at the shipyard, completed the Great North Run in two hours and eight minutes, placing him 15,594 out of a total of around 57,000 who registered.

"I did it for Gordon," Mr Hayes said proudly, echoing the words printed on the back of his running T-shirt.

Mr Hayes added: "I was determined to do it for him. It was tough because it was a hot day but I was so pleased to pass the finishing line. The thought of doing it for Gordon is what got me through it."

On Wednesday August 31, friends and family gathered at a packed-out St Mary's Church on Walney for Mr Cooney's funeral.

A video clip was played during the service, in which Mr Cooney spoke directly to his loved ones, including his wife Gill and son Tom.

Mr Hayes and Mr Robson have raised more than £6,000 in Mr Cooney's name for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, and have applied to take part in next year's London Marathon.