A mother is set to host a charity evening in a bid to raise money and awareness for Parkinson’s UK.

Tracey Bird, 43, of Stewards Green Road in Epping is set to host the event at Macs Social Bar in Farm Hill Road, Waltham Abbey, next month (October 10) in a bid to raise money for a charity close to her heart.

In 2013, the mother-of-two was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, a progressive condition which effects the muscles.

Since then, Mrs Bird said it has been her goal to raise awareness of the condition, which affects one in 20 people under the age of 50.

She said: “I was diagnosed myself quite young.

“I had known for about three or four years before that that something was wrong.

“I pushed and pushed and eventually got an answer.

“My family and I try to run regular charity events to raise awareness.

“People say Parkinson’s and instantly think of the frail and elderly.

“I know a man aged 23 who has been diagnosed, people are often quite young.

“I am hoping the event will raise around £1,000 for the charity and help fund medicine to prolong the quality of people’s lives.”

Husband, Justin Bird, said: “It is not just about the night and the marathon.

“We are trying to raise awareness about this condition, especially that it is not just something that affects the elderly.

“Tracey herself was diagnosed aged forty one.”

On October 11, family friend Shane Yerrell is also set to run in the Parkinson’s UK Royal Parks Half Marathon in a bid to raise further funds.

To purchase tickets for the evening event on October 10, which will see residents entertained with fire breathers, live music from BBC One’s The Voice stars and a raffle, call Tracey on 07947 465967.