Kyle Walker hosts event to help Joe Thompson in cancer fight

The 35-year-old Thompson and his family are trying to raise £250,000 to cover the costs of his ongoing treatment and to pioneer a groundbreaking test that could help others.

Now the organisers of the North West Football Awards are staging 'A Lunch for Joe' in support of the courageous footballer and his campaign.

It will be hosted by Manchester City and England star Walker, with a range of other special guests set to attend.

The event will be held at Hotel Football in Manchester on Wednesday, September 25.

Kyle Walker will host the event for Joe Thompson (Image: PA)

Organisers say the north west football family wanted to come together to show their support and solidarity for Joe.

The former winger, who played for United in the 2015/16 season, has already beaten Hodgkin's Lymphoma twice.

Earlier this year he shared the heartbreaking news that the cancer had returned, spreading to his lungs.

"Joe and his family are aiming to raise £250,000 to cover the costs of his ongoing treatment and to pioneer a ground-breaking test that could prevent the recurrence of not only his cancer but potentially save countless lives in the future," a statement from the NWFA organisers said.

"Joe Thompson is very much part of our Northwest Football family. Joe’s journey has been one of resilience and hope.

"In the face of adversity, and in true Joe Thompson style, he been collaborating with oncologists and scientists, self-funding research to uncover the root cause of his recurring illness.

"Joe and his family have so far self-funded the treatment and worked with the scientists, but they have a long way to go and will not have the opportunity to continue with the research and treatment without external support."

Thompson's former clubs Carlisle and Rochdale meet in a pre-season friendly at the Crown Oil Arena on Saturday.

For more information contact info@northwestfootballawards.co.uk.