Tributes have been paid to a “true gentleman” who never stopped even after receiving his cancer diagnosis.
Nigel Hill, 72, has died after being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018, pancreatic cancer in 2021 and lung cancer in 2022.
Described by Woodbank Cricket Club members as one of the “friendliest, kindest and hardworking people” Nigel touched many lives and helped to raise more than £5,000 for Bury Hospice as a thank you for all their help.
Woodbank Cricket Club announced the news today, sharing their thoughts with his family and praising him for all he did for the club.
A spokesperson said: “As a club, we are devastated at the passing of our club stalwart and current Clubman of the Year, Nigel Hill.
“Nigel touched so many lives and we know everybody will share our sadness and send condolences to all his family.
Read more: Hundreds join in an emotional walk to support much-loved cricket volunteer
“Nigel wandered over to the club one evening to see what was going on as he heard the music at a T20 and instantly brought his special qualities of getting involved, being a do-er, his technical engineering knowledge and his wonderful humour and smile.
“He was key in driving the club forward, involved in junior and senior development, ground maintenance, key events and, of course, the wonderful sightscreens he codesigned and built.
"He will be missed in every single aspect of this club and he did not stop, not even after his cancer diagnosis.
“The club was proud to support him with his wish to thank Bury Hospice and, the high regard he is held in was demonstrated by the hundreds of people who turned out to his sponsored walk.
“Good night Nigel, you will be missed by all, we simply can never thank you for all you have done.”
Read more: Woodbank Cricket volunteer's Bury Hospice fundraiser
Nigel proudly spoke about the hospice, their treatments and his gratitude for the care he had received after his diagnosis.
In August, he decided, with the help of the cricket club, to organise a fundraising walk of 20 laps, approximately four miles around the grounds.
Joined by hundreds of club members, volunteers, friends and family, the beautiful event helped raise thousands.
A spokesperson from the hospice said: “Nigel Hill was a true gentleman and will always be remembered by everyone at Bury Hospice.
“He wanted to show his gratitude for the care he received so organised a fundraising event in August last year, the Walk for Nigel, raising £5,343.20.
“The event was emotionally charged and the love from Woodbank Cricket Club was made visible by the number of people who turned up to support him.
“RIP Nigel.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here