A popular cricket club member and his daughter are helping a close cause after he was diagnosed with cancer.
Nigel Hill, 72, from Woodbank Cricket Club on Stafford Street, will be walking 20 laps of the grounds to raise money for Bury Hospice.
Described as a key part of the community and a much-loved member, Nigel is bringing the hospice and the cricket club together through his fundraising on Friday, August 26.
His daughter, Sarah, 43 along with other members, players and friends will be supporting Nigel at 6 pm by walking alongside him.
Nigel was diagnosed with prostate cancer in July 2018, pancreatic cancer in January 2021 and lung cancer in January this year.
He recently spent time in Bury Hospice’s inpatient unit receiving pain management.
Nigel said: “The treatment I received at the hospice was amazing. All the staff were so thoughtful and considerate and the care I received was second to none.
“It made me question how I could show them my gratitude. As Sarah works in their shop and understands how they battle to raise funds, she suggested a fundraising event.”
His daughter Sarah is the manager of the charity’s shop in Ramsbottom so the pair have decided to complete a sponsored walk to show their gratitude to the Hospice.
Participants are invited to walk 20 laps of the club, approximately 4 miles, however, they can walk anything from one lap if preferred.
Third team captain and second team wicketkeeper at the cricket club, Aidan Allcock, 20, said: “Nigel is one of the most loved and appreciated members of the club and has done so much to improve the club and help make it a better place.
“Even with his walk, he wants the focus to be on the hospice and the club coming together.
"He is always around the club doing something and is the type of person clubs like ours just wouldn’t survive without.
“He is one of the friendliest, kindest and hardworking people I have ever met and it is great to see the club and the local community come together in support of him and a brilliant cause.”
Nigel has been a member of the Woodbank Cricket Club for five years and is said to be an integral part of their volunteer maintenance team.
He said: “Since my diagnosis I’ve been keeping myself busy at the cricket club, helping with DIY and socialising with my friends and other members.
"When I suggested the idea to Club Chair, Martyn Ward he jumped at the chance.”
Club chairman Martyn Ward added: “When Nigel approached me and asked if he could host the event at the club we jumped at the chance.
“Nigel is well known and loved at the club, and we all want to do whatever we can to support him and his family and of course Bury Hospice.”
The evening will have raffle prizes from businesses including Taste of India and designs by Jasmine.
Brandlesholme Chippy and Tesco Bury will also be donating water to the walkers.
Rachel Krafft, community coordinator at Bury Hospice said: “We think this is a great idea and we’re most grateful for Nigel’s fundraising and support.
“He certainly made his mark when he stayed with us and we’re certain that he will have as big an impact on his fundraising attempts.”
For more information go to https://www.justgiving.com/team/Woodbankcricketclubwalkfornigel
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