The family of Cumbrian footballer Tony Hopper say they are overwhelmed by the way people are rallying round the former Carlisle United and Workington Reds player.

A fundraising campaign, set up after it was revealed that Hopper has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease, has already gone far beyond its initial £10,000 target with the total now at just over £15,000.

The 40-year-old and his wife Sue, who live in Brampton, set up the appeal because they want to take their three young sons on a two-week holiday to Disneyland as part of a bid to make as many memories as possible over the next two years.

Hopper’s condition, bulbar-onset motor neurone disease, is a life-limiting illness with an average prognosis of two to three years from the start of symptoms. His symptoms began last May.

Sue said: “We are really grateful and overwhelmed by the response.

“It is amazing to see how people are pulling together for us.

“We just want to say a big thank-you to everyone.”

Those contributing to the appeal include fans of Carlisle United and Workington Reds, where Carlisle-born Hopper was a popular player during a 20-year career after coming through the youth ranks at Brunton Park.

He also played for Barrow and Irish club Bohemians.

Several former team-mates have been donating cash, while United are also rallying around their former player, with the Hoppers due to be guests of honour at the Blues’ home game against Portsmouth on Saturday, February 25, with sons – Jack, four, Adam, seven and nine-year-old Daniel – set to be mascots.

United are inviting the family to be boardroom guests with the offer of full hospitality on the day, with Hopper also set to perform the half-time draw.

Blues spokesman Andy Hall said: “It will be a fantastic way for us to help Tony, Sue and their wider family say thank you for the way people have rallied round them from the moment this came into the public domain.

“In one sense it has been breathtaking – but also not surprising when you know the type of lad Tony is and how much he put into our football club.”

The Hoppers are also planning to help raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

To donate to the family's Creating Hoppy Memories fund visit the website here .