BARRY TOWN UNITED footballer Eliot Richards has signed up to a 60-mile dog walking challenge for a cancer charity, even though he is currently undergoing a course of chemotherapy for the illness.
In February, the 34-year-old midfielder announced he had been diagnosed with cancer for the second time, and that he was stepping away from the game for the second half of the season so he could receive treatment.
Eliot began his professional career at Bristol Rovers, where he played between 2009-14, and he went on to have spells at a series of clubs including Tranmere Rovers, Hereford FC and Merthyr Town, before signing for the Linnets in 2024.
The former Wales under-21 international is currently undergoing gruelling treatment for his condition and is expecting to spend 10 days in hospital during April, but he has nevertheless committed to Cancer Research UK’s Stand Up To Cancer Walkies Challenge, where participants aim to walk 60 miles with their dogs during the course of the month.
Eliot is joined on his walks by Cody, the four-year-old dog he shares with his partner, professional sports therapist Chelsie-Jane Mason.
Launching his fundraiser on JustGiving, Eliot said: “As many of you know, this is my second cancer diagnosis.
“Cancer has already turned my world upside down once, and now I’m facing it all over again. But this time, I’m not just fighting for myself – I’m standing up for everyone who has been affected by this disease.
“I’m taking on the Stand Up To Cancer April Challenge to help raise vital, life-saving funds. The research and treatment that fundraising like this supports once helped save my life, and now, with this secondary diagnosis, it’s doing so again. That’s why this means so much to me. Nobody deserves to go through this.
“This challenge is also something deeply personal. I’ll be undergoing treatment throughout April and will spend at least 10 days in hospital, but I’m determined to keep moving wherever and whenever I can. Some days will be harder than others, but every step I take is a step forward, physically and mentally.
“I won’t be doing it alone, either. My boy, Cody, will be right there with me, making sure we hit the 60 miles across the month. On the days I can’t get out, he’ll carry us forward, and on the days I can, we’ll take those steps side by side.
“This is more than just a challenge. It’s something close to my heart. It’s about hope, resilience, and giving back to something that has already given me so much.
“If you’re able to support, donate, or even just share this page, it truly means the world.
“It’s time to stand up to cancer!”
The fundraiser has already raised £1,446 from 76 supporters, and they remain on track to hit the 60 miles target.
Eliot joined in the walks when he felt well enough during the first week, and on days when he did not feel up to it, Chelsie-Jane stepped in with Cody.
On Saturday, Eliot was rushed in to Velindre earlier than planned and was dosed up on antibiotics, meaning Chelsie-Jane will be on walking duties with Cody for the time being.
To contribute to Eliot’s fundraiser, visit: here.
By Marcus Stead – News Reporter
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