An Otley man who suffers from multiple sclerosis is supporting a new appeal to raise funds to create a world class Yorkshire Brain Research Centre.

The Leeds Teaching Hospitals Charitable Foundation appeal aims to raise £2 million by 2015 towards a final total of £6 million to create a centre which will help tackle Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and dementia, including Alzheimers.

Matthew Collins, of Otley, said: “Being diagnosed with MS was a bit of a game changer, having an effect on both those around me and me directly..

“I think that everyone has something to contribute and a diagnosis of MS doesn’t necessarily mean that that should change. It’s what you do about it that counts.”

To donate to the appeal, visit ybrc.org.uk