Oldhamers piled into a cricket club to raise thousands for a father who is fighting a "traumatic" terminal cancer diagnosis.

Organised by Oldham's very own prolific fundraiser, primary school teacher and charity founder, Steve Hill of the Team Hill Charitable Trust, residents packed into Crompton Cricket Club on Friday (April 28) to lend their support to a family who have been rocked by a heartbreaking terminal cancer diagnosis.

Ryan Simonaitis, a father of three from Shaw, was a "fit and strong" joiner before he was diagnosed with ampullary cancer last year - a rare cancer that forms in the digestive system.

The Oldham Times: Crompton Cricket Club was packed with residentsCrompton Cricket Club was packed with residents (Image: Steve Hill)

Ryan said he was "scared and upset" when he was given the diagnosis while his wife, Emma, said it has been "traumatic" for the whole family.

The 36-year-old's family are now looking to raise funds to help him live as long as he can and spend as much time as possible with his family.

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Ryan's daughter also happens to be in Steve's class and so when the teacher heard about the devastating diagnosis, the Team Hill Charitable Trust sprung into action.

The Oldham Times: Steve Hill said the event was brilliantSteve Hill said the event was brilliant (Image: Steve Hill)

During the Easter holidays, the charity partnered with another Oldham-based company, Conexus Tuition, where they not only delivered a free SATS workshop but raised £100 toards Ryan's fundraiser.

Now, another £2,152 has gone into the pot following the successful fundraising efforts at the cricket club.

"Ryan's race night" saw dozens cram in to sponsor a "horse" in the race and take part.

Steve said: "We had a great night with the local community coming together to raise money to support the family with Ryan's private cancer treatment.

"It was a room full of love and support for a wonderful family.

"Huge thanks to everyone for your support and for helping to make a difference", he added.

Donations can still be made to Ryan's GoFundMe page by clicking here.

If you have a story, I cover all things Oldham from food reviews and local business news to education, crime, property, health, community concerns and much more. Please email me at Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk or send me a message on Twitter @Livbridge with your news.