THE flag was flying on Peel Tower as sisters opened up the historic building for a fundraising day in memory of their brother who died last year.

More than 150 people made the trek up Holcombe Hill to the tower in Ramsbottom to help raise funds and awareness for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).

Colin Lee was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2015.

MND, a fatal rapidly progressing disease, affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time.

Sisters Barbara Shelton and Vivien Lee, from Ramsbottom, along with sister-in-law Christine Lee, organised the open day on Sunday, June 24, to raise funds for the MNDA who provided emotional and practical support to the family.

Ms Shelton said: "More than 150 people bought tickets and went to the top of the tower, and even more came in to enjoy a well-earned cuppa along with a piece of cake or a scone.

"So many people came to wish us well, and to support the MNDA with donations — it was overwhelming.

"One person even carried a huge bag of coins up the hill to give us — the contents of their coin bottle collection — it was amazing.

"And we had a boost in the afternoon when 20 members of the East Lancs Long Distance Walkers Association dropped in partway around their 20-mile hike, the Ramsbottom Round. The amount raised, which was more than £800, far exceeded my expectations."

MND affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time and kills six people every day. There is no cure.

The MND Association is the only national charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland focused on MND care, research and campaigning.

Denise Davies, head of community fundraising at the MND Association, said: "Without the amazing support of people like Barbara and Viv, the MND Association simply would not be able to provide its vital support services, fund research to find a cure and campaign and raise awareness of MND. Together we are making a real difference for people affected by this devastating disease.”