Special Northern Soul night for Jon

A special night of Northern Soul has been organised to help a stricken Wigan DJ.
Former racing driver Jon BatesFormer racing driver Jon Bates
Former racing driver Jon Bates

Friends of Jon Bates have rallied around after it was revealed he needs £35,000 to travel to Mexico to receive vital treatment to help him combat primary-progressive multiple sclerosis.

The 43-year-old was diagnosed in 2010 with the illness which has gradually got worse and three-and-a-half years ago he lost the ability to walk.

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Jon, from Ashton, believes the treatment in Mexico will cure him and help him regain the ability to walk.

“The treatment is available here but the UK is so far behind Mexico, who are the world leaders with regards to this stem cell treatment,” he said.

“I did try to get it over here but it has been declined because of how disabled I am.

“I was accepted in January and I’ve got a date to have the treatment on January on 30 but I have to have the funding in place 12 weeks before.

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“I’m really good at giving as a Christian but to receive and ask for help is a different kettle of fish.”

Friends of Jon, who is also a keen racing driver, have been quick to rally.

One of those is Wigan Casino DJ Russ Winstanley who has organised a special day night of Northern Soul this Sunday at the Rose Club in Hindley between 4.30pm and 11pm.

All acts and DJs have agreed to perform at the event free of charge, while the Rose Club has also waived the cost of the venue.

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The day will act as a big fund-raiser too with an auction and a raffle with entry for £5. All proceeds go to Jon’s fund.

Jon added: “We have had lots of donations. Ashton MOT centre has donated a free service and MOT, Pemberton Tyres have given some baseball caps and an umbrella.

“Wigan Warriors have donated a family ticket for a game and Everton have given four tickets for a stadium tour at Goodison and Corkhills have donated a weekend car hire.

“I am so overwhelmed by it all to be honest, I can’t thank people enough for all their help and support.”

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Russ said: “It should be a great event with some brilliant acts.

“When I heard about what had happened to Jon I just wanted to help.

“He is a great guy and we have worked together many times.

To donate visit www.crowdfunding.justgiving.com/jon-bates.

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