TT star and TV adrenaline junkie Guy Martin helped raise an incredible £17,000 at a dinner for the Huntington’s Disease Association (IoM).

The event was held at the Comis Hotel, Mount Murray, on behalf of the Watson family.

Event organiser Lee Watson, who owns Extreme Art & Gadgets in Douglas, said: ’Having a personality of Guy’s stature was a huge coup for our family in what is a cause very close to our hearts.’

Every generation of the Watson family has been affected by Huntington’s.

’He’s an extremely busy man who seems to dream up world record attempts on a daily basis,’ Mr Watson added.

’However, on a trip to his house just after TT, Guy pulled his diary out and a date was selected.

’I’ve been working professionally with Guy since 2005 and it has progressed into a really good friendship - so much so when asked what sort of fee he required for attending he refused to take a single penny. We provided his travel and accommodation.’

Guy’s partner Sharon and daughter Dottie were also guests at the event.

Many audience members joined Guy on stage to ask a question to which answered honestly with many inducing tears of laughter. He posed for photographs with every single attendee.

The night included a raffle, lucky dip, auction and everyone in the room left with a goodie bag containing a selection of Guy merchandise and humorous items donated by Extreme Art & Gadgets.

The funds will help increase awareness, provide a support group for patients, carers and professionals who live in the island to get together and share information to help each other.

It will also provide financial assistance to patients and carers to enable them to attend seminars and other educational events organised by the association.

The Watson family thanked the Stars Group for their financial assistance, everyone who attended the event, those who donated prizes and those who gave moral support.

If you would like more information regarding this neurological disorder or to make a donation via Paypal, email [email protected]