Daughters’ charity ball in memory of Brierfield businessman

Stanley Batty (64) who ran his own carpet business, was diagnosed with the aggressive form of cancer last year which has just a 3% survival rate.

But despite a brave 14-month battle against the little-known form of the disease, Mr Batty died on September 29th.

His eldest daughter Rachael Allen (37) of Kyan Street, Burnley, said: “He had never been ill before in his life. He had never been to the doctors. He got up one morning last May with a stomach ache. He didn’t understand because he was never ill. He went to the hospital so we knew something was wrong.”

At first the doctors though it was kidney stones, but it soon became apparent it was something more sinister when his skin turned yellow.

“One day he told is in a matter of fact way without a tear in his eye. It was cancer.

“He never gave up. He just wanted everything to stay the same. He didn’t want pity he just wanted to carry on as normal.”

Just before his died Rachael and her sister Victoria Dean (33) decided they wanted to do something to help others affected by the uncommon disease.

Rachael said: “Unlike breast cancer, there is not a lot known about it. The statistics have not changed for 40 years. If you get pancreatic cancer you only have a 3% chance of survival. It is a really fierce cancer. It is horrible.”

The pair are now hosting a charity ball at the Oaks Hotel with a three-course dinner, music and an auction. They hope to raise money for research into pancreatic cancer and Pendleside Hospice and are appealing for local businesses and organisations to come forward with donations for the auction.

Rachael said: “We have already had a wonderful response and got gym memberships, beauty treatments and champagne but we need more.”

To book tickets for the ball on November 26th, which cost £25 per head, call Victoria on 07853943207 or email [email protected].