A FAMILY is staging a Halloween ball in aid of the hospice which is supporting them as their children battle a rare genetic brain disease.

Luke and Chrissie Gorringe, from Wilsden, are raising money for Martin House – where their children Dollie, four, and eight-year-old Leighton receive care.

The youngsters have Aicardi-Goutieres Syndrome, an incurable disease which usually results in severe mental and physical disability.

Around 400 children a year globally are diagnosed with the condition.

The masked ball – which takes place at the Mercure Bankfield Hotel, Bingley, on Friday (Oct 25) – is being organised by Luke’s sister Michelle Gorringe, who runs her own business, Fantazie Events.

She hopes the ball may become an annual event in support of the hospice, near Boston Spa.

“I have been to Martin House and seen what they do,” she said.

“It is so personal and sensitive and it ripples out. Their ethos is about the children, their families and extended families.

“It’s an essential resource – it has been a lifesaver for us. If Chrissie and Luke need a break or Dollie requires attention, the staff are on hand. It is completely different dealing with specialised illnesses – you want people who are familiar with the children’s needs.”

The ball is being sponsored by Steeton-based Acorn Stairlifts, where Luke works as an installer, and the BIST group in Bingley.

The venue has extra significance for Luke and Chrissie – they were married there last December.

Michelle said there had been a fantastic response to the ball.

“I am overwhelmed with the generosity of people who want to support the event and for it to be successful – and for Luke’s employer to offer their support really shows where their ethics lie. They are willing to invest in their workers.”

Luke also expresses his appreciation to the company.

“It is brilliant,” he said.

“And with so much support and generosity, I would like to see our Martin House hospice fundraising figure reach £100,000 in three years’ time.”

Acorn operations director, Nick Wilson, said the firm was delighted to be providing support.

“We have more than 500 staff working out of Acorn Stairlifts – from the factory floor to our installers – and collectively we want to do what we can to help Luke and Chrissie,” he said. “We’re sure they’ll have a fantastic evening that ultimately will make a difference to so many families in need, and we wish them all the luck in the world.”

For further information about the ball, visit HalloweenMaskedBall.eventbrite.co.uk.