A FUNDRAISER is to take place in aid of a well known local cricketer who fell into a diabetic induced coma.

In June, Buckley Cricket Club's Simon Nicholls was rushed to hospital in a diabetic coma believed to be caused after he took too much insulin.

After many weeks in hospital he is now on his long road to recovery.

However, with Simon, 56, being laid off work and his wife, Christine, having to care for him they have been forced to put their Holywell café - Kassidy’s Tea Rooms - up for sale.

Therefore on August 17 Buckley Cricket Club will be hosting a virtual 'pig racing' evening to raise money for Simon and Christine.

The event starts at 7pm and will also include a barbecue, prize auction and raffle. Prizes on offer include a signed England cricket bat and two hospitality tickets to any Manchester City FC Champions League game.

People can sponsor a race at £25, buy a pig at £5 - or just go along to buy a burger, raffle ticket or bid on an auction prize.

The Leader:

Simon - who was in hospital for eight weeks - has reflected on the way his life changed in an instant.

He said: "The doctors said I took too much insulin. I was unconscious for 16 hours, and was only spotted because we have a dog camera in our house which was checked by my wife as I hadn't turned up for work.

"I've been left with brain damage but the doctors said there were cloudy spots on the brain scan caused by damage to braincells.

"This happened so quickly, it's just so frightening how your life can change so much in such a small space of time.

"I'm so frustrated because I used to be such an active person, but I can't be now and I've found myself relying on other people."

But Simon - who had played in North Wales' cricket leagues since 1984 - has spoken of the kindness, love and support family and friends have shown has helped him get through these difficult times.

He added: "Some of the lads at the cricket club have donated materials which will help with the building of a downstairs bathroom which I now need.

"The club as a whole have been absolutely fantastic, everyone came to visit me in hospital. People's general kindness has just been so touching to me and my wife.

"I also run a window cleaning business and all my customers have shown their support.

"I fell over recently and bashed my head - needing 17 stitches - and I've just been overwhelmed by support from friends, customers or members of the community have shown me."

Simon has also warned other diabetics to make sure they do not become complacent with their insulin injections.

He said: "I've lived with diabetes for 25 years and got overly casual, and that's all it took to leave me in this position. So it just goes to show people how careful you have to be."