A fundraiser for a well loved Longridge football coach has been set up by his family after his death.

Jeff Flitcroft, 68, passed away on Sunday, August 6, from a heart attack after being diagnosed with testicular cancer 10 years ago.

He had a passion for junior football and cricket, and he coached many children over the years and had close ties to Longridge Cricket Club and Ribchester Rovers football club.

His daughter, Joanna Bamber, said: "When my brother was younger he started playing football for the Cubs, and so my Dad started coaching them.

"They also needed a referee, so my Dad earned a qualification and started running it.

"One time he was coaching, there was a scout for Manchester United who asked my Dad to come and work for them as a youth coach, and he was also a goalkeeping coach at Myerscough College.

"He did a lot of sports in the community, and along with his pizza shops he donated a lot of raffle prizes.

"So, we decided as my Dad was so big within the community, we wanted to donate half the money to Longridge Cricket Club and the other half to Ribchester Rovers."

Jeff owned two pizza shops, one in Longridge and one near Preston North End's stadium in Deepdale Road.

In his memory, the family would welcome donations towards Longridge Cricket Club and Ribchester Rovers Juniors Football Club, both where Jeff's grandchildren currently play.

Jeff won his battle with testicular cancer, but was also diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus, on which he had an operation that weakened his heart.

The family's original aim was £500, but they have already raised £680 and counting.

Joanna added: "The fact we've exceeded the target is really lovely and we are really honoured.

"It's been a bit strange these last few weeks but we're getting there.

"There are also quite a lot of people who aren't really online and are planning to give some money to my Mum personally, so we are hoping to raise around £1,000.

"He would be super proud and very honoured, and I think it's going to be a busy funeral as he was so well known."

Jeff's funeral is on Wednesday, August 30, at St Paul's Church in Longridge.

To make a donation in honour of Jeff, click here.