An inspirational firefighter who bravely spoke out about his childhood abuse, says he was blown away by the support his charity gig received.

Partygoers dug deep in their pockets to raise £5,000 at Ade Kevern's Big Bash at Egremont Market Hall.

The firefighter, from Whitehaven, organised the event to raise money for The Bridgeway in Penrith, which provides support for victims of rape or sexual abuse, and The Fire Fighters Charity.

Both organisations have been vital supports for Ade, who was sexually abused when he was a child by a neighbour. Last August his abuser was jailed for four years.

Ade hoped to raise about £3,000, and cannot believe how generous people were at last Saturday's Big Bash.

"I'm well chuffed," he said. "I'm gobsmacked. The generosity of people - it's amazing. I'm blown away."

Ade is going to split the money equally between the two organisations. The money was raised through ticket sales, a raffle and auction. Lots included a signed Manchester United match ball, tickets to a Newcastle Falcons match and tickets to Kendal Calling.

Ade surprised the crowd of about 200 at the sold out Big Bash, by taking to the stage to perform with fellow firefighter Darren Elliot, of Stainton. The pair, who call themselves Mr Volatile, performed six songs by a range of artists including Oasis, The Jam and The Undertones.

It was the first time Ade has ever played in front of people - many of his friends didn't even know he played guitar.

Ade said: "My hands were shaking and my face was purple I was so stressed out. I made a few mistakes but no one noticed it."

Playing guitar is like therapy for Ade, who was praised last week by Cumbria's police and crime commissioner Peter McCall for his bravery in speaking out about the sexual abuse he suffered.

He said: "Music has really helped me over the years. I used to plug my earphones in when I was feeling down and I used to zone out."

In a very emotional performance, Ade and a fellow survivor of sexual abuse performed Mumford and Son's Timshel . The chorus had particular poignancy for them both as it includes the phrase: "You are not alone in this, As brothers we will stand and we'll hold your hand."

Ade said: "There were folk just crying. It brought the house down. I have never been anywhere where I have felt so much love. It was incredible."

On the afternoon before the Big Bash, Ade was presented with his long service and good conduct medal at Whitehaven Fire Station in front of his family and friends.

Ade said of the whole day: "It was a bit like a wedding, when you've got all the emotion and in the night everybody's dancing."

Ade says the fundraising was so successful and the feedback so positive, he has pencilled the date of Saturday, March 10, next year for another Big Bash. This one is planned to be held at Whitehaven's Civic Hall.