Recognition for unsung Leeds man with Parkinson's who raised £15,000 through comedy

An inspirational Leeds man who has tried to bring smiles to others during his battle with Parkinson's disease has been praised for raising £15,000 for charity.
Mark Wilson pictured with comedians Peter Brush, Jonathan Mayor and Eddy Brimson ahead of his first fundraising event in early 2015. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.Mark Wilson pictured with comedians Peter Brush, Jonathan Mayor and Eddy Brimson ahead of his first fundraising event in early 2015. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.
Mark Wilson pictured with comedians Peter Brush, Jonathan Mayor and Eddy Brimson ahead of his first fundraising event in early 2015. Picture by Jonathan Gawthorpe.

Mark Wilson, 47, from Beeston, had to quit his job as a private hire driver in 2009 after doctors confirmed his headaches and poor reactions were signs he had developed degenerative disease Parkinson’s.

But after seeing Sarah Millican perform in 2013, he found comedy helped him to forget about his symptoms, prompting him to set up his own events in aid of Parkinson’s UK.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The grandfather-of-one staged his fourth and final Leeds Laughter Extravaganza at the Leeds Marriott Hotel on Sunday despite his condition affecting his mobility.

Robert Ingham, a friend who often goes to comedy gigs with Mark, said: “To me he’s an inspirational guy. He had three standing ovations on Sunday night – people couldn’t stop clapping him.”

Mark may be stepping away from fundraising but Parkinson’s will not stop him enjoying his beloved comedy nights.

He has made new friends on the circuit, with many acts giving their time for free in support of him, so he is still keen to attend gigs.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Parkinson’s UK has praised Mark’s efforts, the proceeds of which will help to fund support and research into better treatments for the disease.

Chrissie Fielden, regional fundraiser for Parkinson’s UK in Yorkshire, said: “I’d like to say a big thank you to Mark for all of his hard work in aid of Parkinson’s UK.

“His comedy nights always proved popular and to raise such a fantastic amount is a great achievement.

“The money he has raised will go a long way to helping people affected by Parkinson’s, including their families and carers.”