Former Ipswich Town player and manager George Burley has been named as the new patron of Cancer Support Suffolk, following his own battle with cancer.

Speaking to the East Anglian Daily Times, the 69-year-old football legend has for the first time shared details of his pancreatic cancer diagnosis, and the gruelling treatment which followed.

Burley revealed late last year that he had undergone chemotherapy and surgery, but has never previously identified the cancer, nor talked of the shock at his early prognosis.

He said: “I was completely numb when the specialist first told Jill and I the news in July last year. It wasn’t looking good.

“The tumour was 2cm and it was in a really bad position, but I just had to put all my trust in the hospital team and be as positive as I could.

“I knew I had always looked after my body well as a sportsman and was strong in my mind – and I’m certain that’s helped me get through this.

“There were some dark times, many weeks in and out of hospital, and a seven-hour surgical procedure to remove the tumour, but I’m fortunate because there had been no spread at all.”

Burley, who says the support of fans and family has been ‘incredible’ since first disclosing his diagnosis, now refers to himself as ‘cancer free’.

He says this makes it the perfect time for a new and meaningful chapter.

“As soon as I was approached to get involved with the charity, I just knew this was something I wanted to do,” Burley explained.

“They’re doing such great work – right here in Suffolk – and once you’ve been through a cancer journey you feel even more strongly about wanting to help others.

“If I can play a small part in spreading the message about prevention and about advocating for yourself when you feel unwell, then that to me is a great thing to do.

“While I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have my family alongside me through all my surgery and treatments, I know that’s not the case for everyone, so it’s why an organisation like this is vital.”

Cancer Support Suffolk launched in 1998 and has since helped thousands of people across the county who have been affected by cancer.

The charity’s team deliver counselling and therapy, as well as an extensive programme of educational activities to increase awareness across the community.

CEO Mark Murphy said: “Having George join us as our Patron is such an incredible boost for the charity, not least because he is a is such an inspirational figure within the Suffolk community.

“In sharing his story, and helping us spread the message about our work, there’s no doubt he will play a role in ensuring more men and women across the county are aware of signs and symptoms, and that they get checked or get supported where needed.”

He added: “The many high-profile cases of cancer in the media in recent years – from the King and Princess of Wales, to Davina McCall more recently – are a clear reminder that cancer does not discriminate.

“The more open we are about cancer the more people we can help and support. George is a key part of us continuing to tell that story.”

For support at any stage of a cancer diagnosis or treatment journey, contact Cancer Support Suffolk on 01473 211884 or visit https://www.cancersupportsuffolk.co.uk/

*For the full story about George Burley’s cancer diagnosis and treatment journey, see our Saturday edition. We’ll also be sharing more information about how Cancer Support Suffolk has been helping others within the county who have been impacted by cancer.