A FUN cabaret evening is to be held in Purfleet in aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

The Circus Tavern, at Meads Corner, will be hosting “the Only Way is Cabaret” on Saturday, August 30, to help Jody Duff, who suffers with the condition, to raise cash for the charity.

Mr Duff, 37, from Chatham, was born with spina bifida – when the spine does not develop properly in the womb – and was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2004.

After smashing his fundraising target of £5,000 in just a matter of days and winning a £10,000 donation from the group Coldplay, Mr Duff has now increased his target to £25,000. He has already raised more than £20,000.

The Circus Tavern is hoping to help Mr Duff reach his target through hosting the cabaret night.

The show will include a performance by international cabaret star, Reuben Kaye, and burlesque performer, Isabella Bliss.

Motor neurone disease is a progressive disease that attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord.

This means messages gradually stop reaching muscles, which leads to weakness and wasting.

On the night, doors will open at 7.30pm for the show, which will start at 8pm.

The event is aimed at anyone aged 16 and over and there will also be a raffle and disco till late.

Tickets cost £12.50, including a booking fee, and can be booked through the Circus Tavern box office by calling 01708 863838.