The Pirrie Hall in Brook was rocking, with more than 100 guests supporting a charity event to raise money and awareness of Motor Neurone Disease.

The event was aimed at promoting 50 Million Gin – a London dry gin produced by the Village Spirit Collective, a micro-distillery in Hambledon. 50 Million Gin is based on Hambledon’s Vann Lane Gin, and £8 from every bottle sold is given to the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

The project was inspired by Paul Jameson, who has Motor Neurone Disease and received a British Empire Medal for his services to fundraising.

“50 Million Gin is a thank you gin to all those who campaigned so successfully to obtain the government funding,” said Paul through speech-to-text software.

“It is also dedicated to all those who suffer from this devastating illness and to all those who fundraise.

“Sales are booming and everyone loves the gin. We never imagined how well the project would take off, but it has caught the imagination of so many people.”

David Setters, who is also living with Motor Neurone Disease, explained to the launch attendees how the campaign to acquire the £50 million of funding began. David was part of a group ‘United To End MND’ who presented a petition to be discussed in parliament.

“It is only right to celebrate this additional £50 million of funding,” said David. “There is an awful lot of inspiration in the community and – despite the huge downsides – there is a lot of fun to be had.”

The Junction 4 Big Band played music, and food was provided by Burrito Street.

The event raised more than £2,000 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. The Pirrie Hall waived the hall hire to support the charity event and the food van also donated a sum of money. The band performed just for expenses.

“We are so grateful for the support from the local community,” said Mel Redman, a Brook resident and one of the organisers of the event. “This is such a worthwhile cause. By buying a bottle of gin, you can enjoy a delicious drink and support the amazing people in the MND community at the same time. They are truly ‘ginspirational’ and are working so hard to raise awareness and funds.”

A bottle of 50 Million Gin can be bought at www.50MillionGin.co.uk or directly from Village Spirit Collective.