PALS of a courageous young Greenock dad who has Motor Neurone Disease have smashed their fundraising appeal target as the community rallies around the cause.

Marc Fairbairn was just 18 when he was diagnosed with MND - a rapidly progressing terminal illness which stops signals from the brain reaching the muscles.

His best pals have organised two fundraising events - a climb up Ben Nevis and a glittering ball.

Marc's best pal Paul Stinson says they have been blown away by the support they have received so far.

He said: "After the story appeared in the Greenock Telegraph, a lot of people have got in contact with us and people we don't even know have been donating on the Just Giving page online.

"We have now surpassed our £5,000 Just Giving target and have raised about £6,562, which is amazing.

"Everybody has been so kind, including local businesses who have donated prizes.

"The main thing is that its given Marc a bit of a lift - he's buzzing about it."

To raise as much money as they can, Marc's friends together with 66 supporters will trek up Ben Nevis on April 18.

They have also organised a ball at the Greenock Town Hall on May 2 featuring radio stars George Bowie and Suzie McGuire.

Paul added: "We have already sold 180 tickets for the ball to our friends and family before more tickets go on sale for general release next week.

"It's brilliant how it's all come together."

Marc's parents Karen and Frank say they are so touched by the kindness shown by the local community.

Karen said: "Marc is overwhelmed by it all.

"We just can't get over it, people have been so nice."

Marc is turning 30 this month and the money raised will be split between him and the charity MND Scotland.

Anyone who would like to support the ball including local businesses can email knoxy130185@gmail.com or paul.stinson@graham.co.uk

To make a pledge log on to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jennifer-mcallister?