A much-loved cricket club volunteer was joined by hundreds of people in an emotional walk to show gratitude following his cancer diagnosis.
Nigel Hill, 72, walked 20 laps of the Woodbank Cricket Club grounds on Stafford Street, aiming to raise money for Bury Hospice, as a thank you for all their help.
Nigel was diagnosed with prostate cancer in July 2018, pancreatic cancer in January 2021 and lung cancer in January this year.
He has recently spent time at the hospice inpatient unit receiving treatment for pain management.
Lisa Schofield, digital and communications officer at Bury Hospice, said: “We are a small team raising vital funds and that is why we value the support of the community so much.
“We are so grateful for Nigel’s fundraising and support.
“He told us the treatment he received was amazing and he wanted to show his gratitude by joining forces with Woodbank Cricket Club and organised a fundraising event.”
Nigel raised a total of £5,343.20, including gift aid, which will be channelled towards patient care.
The event was emotionally charged, with the love that the cricket community as well as the hospice, have been made visible by the sheer amount of people who turned up to support him.
Third team captain and second team wicketkeeper at the cricket club, Aidan Allcock, 20, said: "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 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.”
Nigel walked 20 laps of the ground, approximately four miles, supported by family, friends, players and other members of the club who walked beside him.
There was also live music from Simon Winstanley, a DJ, and a grand raffle with amazing prizes.
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