A POET living with Parkinson’s has raised more than £3,000 for research into the disease after releasing a book of Christmas jokes, riddles and rhymes.

John Foster who lives at Standlake, near Witney, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2005 and developed a severe tremor.

He had Deep Brain Stimulation to help control his tremor which enabled him to continue writing and performing his poetry in schools, libraries and at festivals.

He released his book Christmas Crackers in October and has so far sold more than 700 copies, with proceeds going to Oxford Parkinson’s Disease Centre.

Oxford Mail:

Mr Foster performed a reading at the concert held at Christ Church (pictured) at the weekend and met with comedians Ian Hislop and Rory Bremner at the event. 

He said: “It was great to have the support of Ian and Rory at the concert and to be able to discuss Christmas Crackers with them.

“I also took the opportunity to show them the brilliant illustrations by Oxford artist Korky Paul and cartoonist Gerald Scarfe which have really helped to bring the book to life.”

“I’ve been overwhelmed by the response to the book from people all over the UK.

“It’s wonderful to have raised such an amount for Parkinson’s research.”

Director of fundraising at Parkinson’s UK Paul Jackson-Clark said: “I’d like to say thank you to John for donating the proceeds of his popular book to research into Parkinson’s.

“There are a lot of exciting studies happening in Oxford which we are pleased to fund, but this wouldn’t be possible without the determination of fundraisers like John.

“I hope even more people decide to add this book to a Christmas stocking this year.”