MONEY raised at a fundraiser held on behalf of a Carryduff man who suffers from Multiple Sclerosis will help pay his expensive medical bills.

Recently the Star reported that staff at Carryduff Auction Group had organised a fundraiser on behalf of a former colleague Morgan Costello, 32, who had to leave work when his debilitating illness took hold in 2004.

Over �10,000 was raised at the event, which was held at the Ascot in Carryduff. Richard Smith, a former colleague and childhood friend, who organised the fundraiser with his fellow workmates to help Morgan raise enough money to have his treatment as soon as possible said: "I am delighted that the night was so successful. We have arranged a night at the races to raise some more money and my boss has added a generous donation so the total amount will be in excess of �10,000.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who gave so generously." Morgan's mother Ida Costello was touched by the special night organised for her ill son. She said: "I am delighted that so much money was raised. It was a fun night

for a worthwhile cause and the money will help with Morgan's treatment."

Richard added: 'Morgan is well known amongst the car dealers and is thought of highly by all.

"Our aim is purely to make life a little better for him - the life most of us take for granted."

Speaking about the fundraiser his friend's organised Morgan said: "I enjoyed the night and really appreciate the efforts of all involved in organising it and those people who donated so much money.

"My treatment isn't available on the NHS and costs around �15,000 so the money raised is fantastic.

"I hope after my treatment in Cork next year I will be able to walk again and eventually go back to work. It would be a dream come true."