On Monday 22nd April, Azz/Azza Hickman passed away suddenly at just 43. To say we are all deeply shocked and saddened is an understatement. Azz was not just a name or face in our town, to those who knew him, he was a reliable, down to earth man, with his permanent scaffolder tan, a big cheesy grin and his solid easy going nature.

Nic and Azz met at school and by the time they were 19 they had two children, even though they became parents at such a young age, they were still together almost 25 years later. That is no mean feat, and they really were perfect for each other. I have known Nic for 15 years and being best friends with Nic meant being best friends with Azz because anyone who knew them, knows they were rarely apart. They have raised two beautiful children together and now was supposed to be their time. They were looking forward to planning a holiday together and they had even discussed getting married.

When something like this happens, it really does put things in perspective. You realise just how short life is and how cruel it can be by taking away a man who gave so much to everyone he knew and loved. I have sat and read well over 750 comments on Facebook, and while everyone is obviously in complete shock, they are also full of praise for Azz. I know that all of your comments, messages and calls have been a huge comfort to Nic and her immediate family.

Azz adored Nic, Dannii and Rhys. He would have done absolutely anything for them and for his family. I knew him well enough to know that he would agree with the sentiment that we are here for a good time, not a long time. So i have set this up to help Nic and Azz’s family give him the send off he deserves because Azz, truly was, one in a million.

(Every penny raised from this will go directly to Nic, so she can arrange Azz’s final journey and i have been given full permission to set this up, on her behalf.)