Generous Carlisle United fans raised more than £2,800 to support former player Tony Hopper's mission to help the battle against motor neurone disease.

The former Carlisle United has been diagnosed with the devastating condition, but is determined to help ensure others do not have to endure the same heartache his family is having to.

And he has set out to raise £10,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, supported by the News & Star's Fighting Back For Tony Campaign.

Tony, 40, made an emotional return to Brunton Park for last Saturday's game against Portsmouth, where he was guest of honour.

Touched by his bravery in facing up to - and going public with - his illness, fans gave generously to bucket collections. United chiefs also donated part of the proceeds from programme sales to the cause.

The total of that collection has been confirmed as £2,860.67. That money will go direct to Tony's appeal.

It's a figure that's delighted the Hopper family.

Tony's wife, Sue, told United's website: "I can’t thank everyone enough. It’s a fantastic sum of money and it’s going to a very good and worthy cause.


“Tony was overwhelmed by the reaction from the fans when he did the half-time draw and our boys [Dan, Adam and Jack] thoroughly enjoyed their experience as match day mascots.

“Everyone really has been fantastic and that has meant a lot to us.

"As I say, we just want to thank everyone for coming to the game and for helping the MNDA as they continue to do their research into the causes and potential cures for the illness."

It's been a week since the News & Star launched its part to support the Hoppers and the response has been tremendous, with people coming forward with a range of fundraising ideas.

If you're getting behind the campaign, let us know by emailing jon.colman@cngroup.co.uk

To donate to Tony's Fightback Fund, click here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Tony-Hopper