A COLLECTIVE of market organisers and traders have joined forces to support a colleague following a life-changing diagnosis.

Andrew Mortimer of BuyFudge, who was recently diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) - a rare neurological condition that causes the immune system to attack the nerves.

The Smokehouse Social, at The Aussie Smoker headquarters in Penryn on Thursday, April 9, raised more than £1,100 in a single evening for

The event featured live music from Steve Panter, a message board from local artist Molly Biscoe and plentiful food and drink provided by Holly's Gin, The Magic Whisk, Pink Peach Cake and Langley's Rocky Road.

It marked the first phase of a massive fundraising drive, which has been followed by the launch of the Ultimate Cornish Prize Draw. For just £5, members of the public have the chance to win donations from more than 35 local small businesses from a prize pot valued at over £1,750, including foodie treats, handcrafted jewellery, wellness sets, creative workshops and more.

The prize draw is hosted by Truro Farmers Market, Cornwall Shop Small, Newquay Farmers Market and Discovery Market. Participating businesses include Barratt Boards, Bkaha Ceramics, Hattie’s Beach Hut, The Cornish Cheesemonger, Method Bakery and Wild Sage.

A well-known face at markets across the county, Andrew found the rapid onset of GBS moved from tingling sensations to severe weakness that has left him struggling to walk. As a self-employed trader, he now faces months of intensive rehabilitation without a financial safety net.

"It was overwhelming to see the whole community come together,” he said. “Knowing how many people are involved in helping me get better is incredibly humbling. I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart. I’m now determined to get well, raise awareness of GBS, and eventually help support others in this amazing community."

The prize draw is open until midday on Friday, April 24. Tickets are £5 and can be purchased online via https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/a-fundraiser-for-andrew, where a full list of prizes is available. The goal is £1500.