Cricket community raises £19,000 in memory of much-loved Dan Woods

The team mates, friends and wider cricket community have honoured the memory of much-loved figure Dan Woods by donning their trainers and running 5km to raise funds for the Magnolia Centre at York Hospital.

Dan, who was a popular figure and talented player for Hyde Cricket Club, tragically died after a long battle with cancer in March. He was 32 and is survived by his wife Heather.

A talented spin bowler, Dan visited the Magnolia Centre for over a year before his passing and the treatment, care and support he received is now being rewarded to the tune of £19,000.

And it's all because his friends, family members, and team mates have laced their trainers and taken part in a 5km #RunForDan.

The response to the idea has been well received with a great mix of ages and abilities all taking part - some in super hero costumes - to raise funds for the Centre.

Former Hyde team mate Rob Brierley donned a Superman costume to run around Gee Cross and Woodley, whilst one person completed the 5km on a treadmill in his garage. Participants have tweeted their pictures after completing the run, as seen below.

Dan, who enjoyed two stints with Hyde from 2006-2008 and then again in 2015, was regarded as one of the finest spin bowlers in Cheshire County Cricket Club's history. After helping Hyde to the ECB Cheshire County League Premier Division title, Dan then returned to Cheshire as part of his duties to captain the County side.

Dan also spent a considerable period with York CC, collecting numerous honours during his tenure and becoming a club legend in the process.

Speaking to Reporter Sport, Brierley described Dan as a fantastic cricketer, whilst adding he was a great person as well. "He was really approachable and friendly and would have time for anyone at the club" said Brierley.  "He was a great help to me coaching the juniors at Hyde and had a great rapport with the younger players - something I’m sure helped him as he moved into teaching.

"On the field he was undoubtedly the best spinner I’d played with. He had two stints with Hyde, with the most recent one him being crucial in winning the Premier Division in 2015. We were lucky enough to spend time with Dan and Heather out in Australia when Dan was playing a season in Brisbane a few years ago. Overall, I'm very proud to call Dan a good friend and someone I, along with all members at Hyde CC will never forget."

Those wishing to donate to the cause can do so via the following link:  https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/magnolia-york