Ex-gangster Dave Courtney takes his role as godfather very seriously.

But unlike the hoodlums of the movies, the former London-based hardman turned celebrated author has only charitable intentions in mind when he offers to help.

His godson, Ben Daly, ten, has developed severe epilepsy in the last month and his parents Jerry and Kate found themselves needing to buy expensive medical equipment.

The couple, of Alfred Road, Eastbourne, have been friends with Dave for years and were delighted when he offered to perform one of his "Audience With . . . " shows for free with all proceeds to help Ben.

Dave said: "Being godfather to Ben is not just a name and wasn't just an excuse to have a party for a day. I have always felt it meant you were prepared to do something real for someone and was a big commitment.

"I have got six child-ren of my own so really felt for Kate and Jerry. If it is just financial matters that can make them feel better then I can provide that."

Mrs Daly said Ben was a normal, healthy boy until he was four but he has gone on to develop a host of problems, including autism, learning difficulties and epilepsy.

Mrs Daly said: "On the last day of school this year Ben had a huge fit and had to be taken to casualty. Since then we have been terrified as it had never been that bad before and we didn't know what to do."

After several more fits, his parents were so worried about him injuring himself at night he slept in their room.

"Then we found out about a thing called an MPS monitor. This goes under his mattress and picks up the sounds and movements if he has a fit. It sets off a really loud, flashing alarm in our room if he does.

"I was talking about it to Dave and straight away he said he loved Ben and was eager to do whatever he could to help.

"Ben has adopted him like an uncle but I was surprised at Dave's offer because he has got a lot on himself at the moment.

"He's really got a heart of gold."

Dave will be performing his one man show at the Tally Ho pub, Church Street, Old Town, Eastbourne, on Friday at 8pm.

Tickets cost £5 on the door and all the money will buy medical equipment for Ben and go towards his treatment at the Brain Injuries Rehabilitation and Development Unit in Chester.