A new fundraising group in the Isle of Axholme is organising a cricket tournament and family day in memory of Liam Fitzgerald, who died last year from kidney cancer aged only 42. It will be at Outcasts Cricket Club, Hirst Priory, near Crowle, on Sunday, July 15.
The new group, the Smegal Sixes, is now an established Macmillan Supporter Group - wanting to give back to the charity for the support given to Liam and his family through his cancer journey.
Well-known Lincolnshire League cricketer with Outcasts, Anthony Fitzgerald, Liam’s brother, is a main driving force behind organising the event.
Anthony said: “We wanted to support Macmillan due to all the care, both physical and emotional, advice and support given not only to Liam but also his family without which it would not have been possible for Liam’s final wish of spending the rest of his time in his own surroundings encircled by the people he loved.”
The organisers are aiming to provide fun for all the family. Youngsters can enjoy a children’s entertainer, bouncy castle and face painting. Adults can watch some enthralling cricket between ten local teams. Later they can enjoy a performance by Steve Womack, as well as local bands.
Food, provided by local farmer Bob Johnson of Medley Farm, Belton, and other kind donations of fare, will be available throughout the day alongside licensed bar and a summer drinks tent “so the ladies do not feel like ‘cricket widows’.”
The Smegal Sixes have been writing to many companies to generate some excellent donations and prizes for the raffle. These already include a Spa Weekend, Ascot Races tickets, an Ipad and £250 in vouchers. Raffle tickets are now on sale.
Amy Hebdon, local fundraising manager, said: “I hope people will show their support for this event. Not only will people benefit from such a wonderful day, they’ll be helping to raise vital funds for those affected by cancer.
“We rely on 96 per cent of voluntary donations so without events like this, we wouldn’t be here as a charity to support people through their cancer journey.”
Can you help?
The Smegal Sixes still need prizes for their raffle, additional raffle tickets sales (check out the prizes already confirmed), and a key speaker. Get involved! You can also donate to the cause via the Smegal Sixes’ Just Giving page.
For further information, contact Anthony Fitzgerald via Anthony.fitzgerald1@nhs.net
