SPENSTOCK 5 hit all the right notes by raising much-needed money to help people battle motor neurone disease.

The night of live music at Weymouth Pavilion was held in memory of Balance Of Power drummer Spencer Bates, who died in August, 2011, aged 49, after battling motor neurone disease.

Weymouth musician Spencer raised more than £30,000 with the event he set up and organised – and inspired his family to take on the legacy.

Spencer’s mum Mary Bates said this year’s event had been a huge success thanks to performances from Replay, Restless and The Mighty Fine.

Nick Barron also performed on the night – crooning the hits of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

Mr Barron said he remembered Spencer as a ‘generous, well-liked, happy-go-lucky’ person who got on with everyone.

There was also a raffle and tombola with lots of prizes.

Mrs Bates said: “We are so pleased with the amount of money we raised, especially as people are struggling at the moment.

“The money will go to help local people and we want to thank everyone for coming along.”

This year more than £1,800 was raised which will go directly to helping people in West Dorset affected by the degenerative condition.

The money will help to provide light writers for when people battling MND lose the power of speech and for any equipment they may need, or taxis to help them to and from appointments.

At present there are 20 families in West Dorset with someone battling the condition.

MND affects both children and adults – in adults it occurs most commonly in men and women over 40.

Mrs Bates said: “It’s those 20 families we’re trying to help. No one knows who’s next – that’s the frightening thing.

“Whether it’s getting recognised more or it’s on the increase, we need the money to not only to help the families but to also fund research.”

Mrs Bates said she thought about her son every day.

“He’s not forgotten. Everyone I see who knew him says they miss him.

“We just remember him for how brave he was and how he dealt with it.

“He was an inspiration.”