Leamington Boss Holleran Undergoes Cancer Surgery

The Brakes, who returned to the Vanarama National League North in May a year after relegation, have confirmed their long-serving boss is recovering at home following the operation.

They say the positive 53-year-old intends to be back in the dug-out for the start of the new season.

The football community have come together to wish the popular manager the very best after the club issued a statement over his health.

"Following speculation regarding the health of Paul Holleran and him receiving many enquiries from within the football community, and following discussions with the club, initiated by Paul, it has been decided to make a statement on what is a very personal matter for Paul," the club said this morning.

"Paul advised the club almost three months ago that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and would be having an operation in very early June with a then yet to be determined course of treatment.

"The operation took place as scheduled and Paul is now recuperating at home, following doctor's orders. He envisages being back in the dugout in time for the season ahead."

Holleran took over at Leamington in November 2010 and has since been in charge of the team for more than 700 matches.

He said: "Firstly I would like to thank all of my family, close friends and football family for all their support over the recent months since my diagnosis of prostate cancer. I have had exceptional treatment and care from all the staff at the Birmingham Queen Elizabeth Hospital..

“I would like to urge all men from their late 40s onwards to request a simple PSA blood test from your local GP, symptoms or no symptoms to help with early diagnosis. I would also like to pay special tribute to National League Sponsors Vanarama as I can still remember their MANarama campaign for awareness of prostate cancer.

“My recovery is going well and I’m looking forward to seeing the Leamington football family in pre season!”