A MUCH loved father-of-two will be remembered with a day celebrating his life at the weekend.

Martin Simm, from Padiham, died in October, aged 40, after a four-year battle with throat cancer.

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Mr Simm, who was well known as a songwriter and guitarist with band Pretend Girlfriend, will be remembered on ‘Simmy Day’ on Saturday with money raised going to Pendleside Hospice, where he was a day patient, and Macmillan Cancer Research.

He worked as a benefits assessor for Hyndburn Council.

The day will take place around Padiham FC’s game against Runcorn and events have been planned by a group of his close friends, who have dubbed themselves ‘The Padiham Pirates’.

One of the organisers, Andrew Higginson, 38, said: “Simmy meant so much to his friends and family but also the people of Padiham and Burnley.

“We miss him every day and we thought that this fundraiser in his memory would be a fitting tribute.”

Various events taking place from 1pm at Padiham FC including ‘Simmy’s bench’ unveiling by family and friends before kick-off with special guest, Clarets cult hero Roger Eli. Evening events from 6.30pm include live music from Aspire and DJing by Padiham FC’s Gareth Birchall. There will also be a charity auction and raffle.

Martin left sons, Liam and Oliver and his brother Stephen along with parents David and Sheila.

Dad David said: “Since we lost Martin the support his many friends have given us has been simply overwhelming.

“We knew he was popular and loved but since he died we only realised how many people counted him as a friend.

“That they care enough to organise these events for two fantastic charities that helped him so much is brilliant.”

A spokesman for Pendleside Hospice said: “During the 12 months that Simmy accessed hospice services, the staff observed a young man who faced his illness with courage and demonstrated great resilience.”

“He always managed to maintain his sense of humour, show concern and compassion for others regardless of any challenges he was facing himself.”