A charity evening held in honour of local man Simon Selkin raised over £30,000 for the MND Association and Simon’s ongoing care needs.
Simon was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) last year. Known by family and friends as energetic, positive and full of life, he has continued to inspire those around him with his courage and honesty despite the challenges of the illness.
Speaking about his diagnosis, family man Simon said: ‘In May 2024, aged 64, I was training regularly and going to the gym. In June, I developed a limp in my right leg. By November, I was wheelchair bound.
‘In March 2025, after months of tests, I received a definitive MND diagnosis, and now my voice is failing and I am becoming weaker by the week.
‘Like every other person with MND, I wasn’t expecting a far shorter life, with the frustration of remaining mentally sharp while everything else falls apart. I am incredibly supported by my family and dear friends, but please also support the MND Association, who have supported me from my very first conversation with them.’
Determined to create something positive, Simon’s family and friends organised a fundraising evening at Prestwold Hall. The event celebrated friendship, raised awareness of MND and generated vital funds for Simon and the MND Association.
A JustGiving campaign and ticket sales raised more than £10,000 before the event had even taken place. On the night, further donations came through silent and live auctions, with prizes donated by local businesses and supporters, helping push the final total beyond £30,000.
Marc Holland, founder of training company PTP, sponsored the event, while entrepreneur Alfie Willis, founder of the Choo Choo train app, sponsored the photobooth. Donations also included health and well-being packages from Balance Health Nottingham, a golf day from former England cricketer Graeme Swann, and a bespoke dining experience from Michelin-starred chef Sat Bains.
Motor Neurone Disease is a rapidly progressing condition affecting the brain and spinal cord. It attacks the nerves controlling movement, gradually causing muscles to stop working.
Alistair Laing from the MND Association said the charity relies heavily on fundraising support to provide services, fund research and raise awareness.
Marc Holland from PTP added: ‘Simon and I have shared countless wonderful moments, so learning of his diagnosis was devastating. We decided to turn this situation into an opportunity and bring some light into a very dark moment.
‘The evening was a complete success and we were delighted that Simon could be with us throughout.’