Fitting tribute to a great friend

Fun day in memory of Jimmy

A FATHER and daughter who were stunned at the death of a close friend have organised a fund-raising day in his memory.

Jimmy Biggins collapsed and died of a heart attack when he was only 38-years-old — a matter of days after feeling unwell.

His sudden death in March, last year, shocked his friends and family, who are still struggling to come to terms with their loss. John Thomas, his daughter Catherine and another friend Christopher Whittaker, decided they wanted to do something in Jimmy’s memory.

They agreed on a fund-raising effort in aid of the special care baby unit at the Royal Oldham Hospital.

It takes place next Saturday at Waterhead Rugby Club. John, a great friend of Jimmy’s for 17 years, said: “Jimmy never had children of his own but he loved them to bits.

“His death came as an extremely big shock and we still can’t get over it.

“You couldn’t wish to meet a better guy, he was absolutely brilliant and he just adored children.

“His death has left a big hole in our lives.

“This seemed the ideal way of doing something for him.”

Jimmy lived in Derker most of his life, but moved to Royton five months before he died.

He worked as a warehouse supervisor at Mobilis Healthcare in Shaw Road, Oldham and for Auto Gleam Valets in Royton and Waterhead. He also played football for Parkside in his spare time.

John is now appealing to anyone who knew Jimmy to join in the fund-raising spectacular and help give him the send-off he deserved.

Around 40 well-wishers have already signed up for a five-a-side football competition which takes place during the fun day.

There will also be the usual fun day attractions, including face-painting, an auction and raffle, as well as a special draw for the ladies — two men undergoing a sponsored wax.

The event runs from noon until late, and anyone who knew Jimmy is welcome.