A FAMILY fundraiser set up to help raise cash in memory of 22-year-old Sam Nicholls who lost his battle to cancer was hailed an ‘amazing’ event.

Susan set up Sam’s Gift in memory of her much-loved son along with his brothers Tom, aged 22, and Daniel, aged 19 as a lasting tribute.

Sam, who attended Tottington High School, was diagnosed with T-Cell Lymphoma in May 2014, when he underwent treatments before passing away in November 2014.

The family pulled together with dad Steve, to raise £5799 by holding a fundraising memorial match and fun day on Sunday at Elton Vale Sports Club.

Susan, a teacher at Radcliffe Hall Primary School, said: “It was brilliant to be able to raise so much money which will enable us to help more people diagnosed this year.

“All of Sam’s friends came, a lot of their parents and my other boys’ friends turned out as well.

“It was amazing to see because despite them all at that age now where they’re all moving on and doing their own thing, they all came back together to support Sam’s Gift.”

Sam’s Gift aims to support teenagers and young adults diagnosed with cancer, by creating boxes which are donated to the Youth Oncology Unit at The Christie in Manchester, where Sam underwent his treatment.

Each box includes items to help patients keep hope during treatment, all inspired by Sam.

The boxes include a journal, letter writing kit, photo album and a pen drive including helpful websites for young people with cancer.

Susan added: “There are currently around 150 diagnoses of cancer per year for 16 to 24 year olds in The Christie alone.

“That means we would need to raise £15,000 to get enough boxes for each patient.

“The money raised on Sunday is a huge boost towards the charity.

“Our whole family felt really supported by everyone that came.”

The cash was raised through entrance fees, contributions from match players, a raffle and an auction – which alone raised an impressive £2,000.

More than £1,000 was raised by an impromptu beard shave by Conor Henry in memory of Sam and good friend Rhys O'brien, who played in the game last year but died a few days later.