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Photographer hit by MND to release book of images for charity

Donald StewartA freelance photographer diagnosed with motor neurone disease is planning to release a book of the best images taken during his career for charity.

Donald Stewart, pictured left, who began his career at Aberdeen Journals in 1974, has been forced to give up taking pictures at Aberdeen football matches after being diagnosed with the illness.

However, Donald hopes to continue working at other events and is hoping to publish a book containing his photographs of the royal family, film stars, footballers and other pictures, as part of his fundraising efforts.

He has already raised £1,750 through a bucket collection at a recent Aberdeen match, and wants proceeds from his book to go towards the Edinburgh-based Euan MacDonald Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Research.

Donald first became aware he had a problem while working at the Aberdeen v Dundee United league game in August 2014.

A specialist confirmed in April had contracted the diseases, which progressively damages parts of the nervous system and claimed his father’s life in 1986.

Donald told Aberdeen’s Evening Express: “I know the disease will eventually get the better of me, but I want to keep going for as long as my body will allow.

“And if that means I can do something to help the Euan MacDonald Centre, all the better.”

He added: “The response from almost everyone else I know has also been overwhelming.”