A HEALTH spa worker from Peebles has raised more than £3,000 in honour of her seriously ill auntie.

Gemma Balmbra organised a fundraising evening and auction at Peebles Rugby Club recently for MND Scotland.

The 22-year-old’s aunt, Audrey Balmbra from Newtown St Boswells, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease just over 18 months ago - the day before rugby star Doddie Weir was told by doctors he had the same debilitating condition.

The former Scotland and British Lions star has brought the need for a cure to the fore with a high-publicity campaign.

Gemma, who works at Stobo Castle Health Spa, aimed to raise £2,000 towards the charity that provides care and support for people affected by MND as well as funding research into finding a cure.

But friends and family rallied round and the evening resulted in £3,360 being raised.

Gemma told the Peeblesshire News: “My auntie, from Newtown St Boswells, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease 18 months ago, the day before Doddie Weir.

“Since then, I have wanted to raise money for the charity, MND Scotland and last week’s fundraiser collected a lot more money than I had expected.”

Motor neurone disease can lead to sufferers losing the ability to walk, talk, eat and even breath unaided.

And, as yet, there is no cure.

Charities such as MND Scotland are currently funding major research into making a breakthrough.

Everyone who attended last Friday’s fundraising evening made a £10 donation, with funds bolstered by a raffle and an auction.

Many generous businesses rallied to support Gemma, offering a range of items for her auction - among them was a weeknight stay at the Barns Tower at Neidpath Castle, a signed rugby ball, a two-course meal and a round of golf at Craigielaw Golf Course, and a round at Peebles Golf Club.

There was also a new TV, a signed print by Ibrox RFC, plus a day for four people at Edderston Cross Country and Livery Yard, north of Peebles.

Gemma added: “I’d like to thank everyone who came along, supported my family and I. Thanks to the many local businesses for their generosity, giving me prizes for my raffle and auction, and anyone else who donated to the event.

“In particular I’d like to thank my dad’s friend George Purvis, who held the auction for us. I had a great night, and couldn’t have done it without everyone.

“For those still wanting to donate, there is a money cup at Peebles Rugby Club for any folk wanting to do so.”