Prostate cancer UK

Powering on for Prostate Cancer UK: Nick and Co raring to go for big charity march

FOOTBALLERS and other sportsmen, women and supporters from across the region and nation will be putting their best feet forward in support of Prostate Cancer UK this weekend.

The Bristol March for Men takes place on Sunday, June 17 at Blaise Castle and participating walkers can choose one of 2k, 5k or 10k routes.

The popular annual event starts at 11am and walkers, who pay £10 to register, are urged to try and raise a minimum of £50 each for the cause.

Children under 16 can join in for free provided they are accompanied by a guardian aged 18 or over while all routes will be signed and marshalled. Dogs are also welcome!

There is free parking and refreshments available and while registration, which takes place from 10am, can be administered on the day, participants are encouraged to sign up beforehand by accessing the link button from the following page: https://prostatecanceruk.org/get-involved/march-for-men/the-bristol-march-for-men

One well-known local man taking part again is former Bristol Rovers and Liverpool defender Nick Tanner, who explained: “My dad Dennis was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer and sadly taken from us in 2013.

“I wanted to try and help as many people and charities as I could, just as my dad would have wanted. He was a great man, liked by everyone, and he would always go out of his way to help people, which is a trait I’ve tried to carry forward with me.

“Last year I had the privilege of walking with Jeff Stelling (Sky Sports presenter) and many others from Weston-super-Mare to a place I know very well, the Memorial Stadium, home of Bristol Rovers FC.

“It was an unforgettable day with some truly inspiring people. And I know the amazing people of Bristol and Liverpool will be out in force to support this most serious of causes during this year’s too.

Nick added: “I’ve held several fundraising events for Prostate Cancer UK where fans get to meet and greet my former team-mates and legendary players from Liverpool FC like Steve McMahon, Ronnie Whelan, Graeme Souness, Jan Molby and Ray Houghton.

“I’m hugely grateful to people for supporting these Q&A evenings and with more coming up, it will be great to raise more vital funds and awareness.

“To me it’s so important that the football family comes together to help stop prostate cancer being a killer. Football is a worldwide language with millions of followers, so clubs can really play their part in spreading the message.

“Many managers have worn the Prostate Cancer UK ‘Man of Men’ pin badge from the Premier League and EFL across the grassroots game. It’s an incredibly powerful way of showing your support.

“I wear my badge with great pride as it reminds me of my dad and the brave struggle he fought against prostate cancer.

“I know that because I have a family history of prostate cancer down both lines and that puts me at a higher risk. So I’ve seen my doctor and it’s important that men wise up and follow suit.

“Recently my uncle Roger was also diagnosed with prostate cancer. So this remains a very personal issue for me and one incredibly close to home.

Nick will be walking with Forest Green physio Ian Weston, the former Bristol Rovers and Bath City midfielder.

Nick’s own Just Giving page can be found at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nick-tanner3?newPage=True