Staff at Francis House Children’s Hospice are mourning the loss of Northern Irish comedian Jimmy Cricket, who has died at the age of 80. The entertainer, known for his trademark wellington boots and catchphrases, was a devoted supporter of the south Manchester hospice, having been introduced to the charity by its founder, Sister Aloysius.
A Legacy of Laughter and Fundraising
Jimmy dedicated decades to bringing joy to audiences across Greater Manchester, raising thousands of pounds through numerous tours performed in aid of the hospice. His remarkable career included his own television and radio series, Royal Command performances, and in 2015 he was awarded a Papal Knighthood in recognition of his charitable work.
That same year, to mark his 70th birthday, Jimmy kick-started a charity fun run at Cown Reservoir. A decade later, he hosted a sell-out gala show for his 80th birthday at the Lowry Theatre, generously donating the proceeds to the hospice.
Decades of Dedicated Support
For ten years, Jimmy packed the Oldham Coliseum alongside his friend and fellow performer Jim Nicholas for the ‘Stars Come Out for Francis House’ – a charity gala night of music, nostalgia, comedy, and entertainment. These events helped Jim reach an incredible fundraising milestone of more than £250,000 for the hospice over three decades.
Paying tribute, Rachael Taylor, CEO of Francis House, said: “Jimmy was much more than a wonderful supporter of Francis House, he was a dear friend to so many of us. For decades he gave his time, talent and boundless generosity to help children and families facing the most difficult of circumstances, asking for nothing in return except the chance to make people smile. We will remember Jimmy with enormous affection, gratitude and a smile – exactly as he would have wanted.”
An Enduring Legacy of Kindness
Eamonn O’Neal OBE, trustee of Francis House, also paid tribute: “Jimmy wasn’t simply a great comedian; he was a great man. He had an extraordinary ability to make people laugh while quietly changing lives through his generosity and humility. His friendship meant a great deal to all of us at Francis House, and he leaves behind not only wonderful memories but an enduring legacy of kindness that will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with all the Mulgrew family.”
Francis House: Supporting Families Across Greater Manchester
Francis House Children's Hospice supports more than 435 families from across Greater Manchester, providing holistic care in a home-from-home environment for children and young adults with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions. The charity offers physical, emotional, and psychological support to the whole family through a dedicated multi-disciplinary care team, as well as homecare and community support.
The total running cost of Francis House is £5.8 million per year, and out of every £1 spent, 94p goes directly towards charitable work.
