A FATHER battling cancer has paid tribute to volunteers who have helped transform his garden which was prone to flooding.

Andy Shaw, from Haslingden, was diagnosed with incurable lung cancer last month after noticing a tumour on his pelvis.

A fundraising group called ‘Andy’s Angels’ is organising a family fun day on Sunday, May 28, to try and raise money to support him and his family.

Volunteers have also come forward to help repair his garden, so the dog lover can get some fresh air and allow his pets the exercise they need.

He was previously unable to use the garden because of the state of the grass after flooding but various people and companies have helped out.

Peter Green from Rossendale Gardens dug out the garden for free and laid the groundwork while Valley Skips donated hardcore and sand.

Rossendale Carpets provided the astroturf at a discounted cost.

Mr Shaw, 46, said: “It’s mind blowing the support we’ve had. They just came to us and offered to help

“It just means I can let my dogs out in the garden, it makes day to day life that bit better.

“I’m feeling good and I’m feeling positive.”

Mr Shaw is taking chemotherapy tablets and undergoing targeted therapy to help manage his cancer.

He has a 12-year-old son with wife Sally and used to work as the garage cafe manager at Tor View Community Special School.

So far £2,310 has been raised towards the £5,000 fundraising target but the family are expecting most of the money raised to come from May’s charity event.

The family are now looking for help with their fundraising day at St Mary’s Chambers in Rossendale on Sunday, May 28.

The event will include entertainment from DJs magicians, singers, stalls, as well as raffles and auctions.

Prizes donated for the fundraising auction so far include four hospitality tickets to a Manchester United home game and a short break to Italy.

Mr Shaw’s sister Nicola Bezer said: “It’s made a massive difference for Andrew.

“It’s absolutely amazing what people are giving us.

“It’s just wonderful to see how kind and generous people are being.”

To get involved visit the ‘Andy`s Angels Family Charity Event’ Facebook page.

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/nicola-bezer.