A FORMER professional footballer who lost his hair as a result of cancer treatment is fronting a campaign to support other men going through the same ordeal.

Regan Walker, aged 21, made three appearances for Bury during the 2013/14 season after coming through the club’s youth system, but was released the following summer.

According to his father Craig, he had complained of crippling pains in his right thigh throughout the season, and found it difficult to walk, never mind train.

At one point the pain was so bad that Regan passed out on the training pitch, and was later diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare condition which mostly affects children. As part of his treatment, he was forced to undergo 12 months of intense chemotherapy, as well as undergoing radiotherapy, and surgery to remove the tumour, femur, knee and surrounding muscle tissue.

Although he has now recovered, his injuries mean that his footballing dreams are over, and he is now trying to help others by promoting the Little Princess Trust’s ‘Hero’ campaign.

The campaign aims to encourage young men who have undergone chemotherapy to talk about, and consider wearing a wig in a bid to increase their confidence.

Despite making just a handful of appearances for the Shakers’ first team, supporters may remember Regan for his flowing long hair.

His father said: “He struggled with the hair loss. It was a big part of his image and he was always trying to grow his hair, He felt terrible, and it really rocked his confidence.”

Regan’s hair has since grown back and earlier this year he was approached by the Trust to become an ambassador for the campaign.

As part of his new role, he visited Manchester City’s training ground and managed to convince manager Pep Guardiola and his players to throw their support behind ‘Hero’. Regan said: “The players were all really into it and gave us permission to use their images and what they had to say about the campaign.”

To find out more, visit https://herobylpt.org.uk/.