Oldham Athletic legend Keith Hicks taking part in Rochdale 10k for two charities close to his heart

Rochdale and Oldham Athletic legend Keith Hicks is set to run the Rochdale 10k to raise money for charity.

Former centre-half Keith is dedicating his run on Sunday, October 8, by pledging funds and raising awareness for The Barry Kilby Prostate Appeal and Prostate Cancer UK, two fantastic cancer research charities close to his heart.

A test at a Rochdale AFC home match back in 2019 alerted Keith to the issue after he was tested on the day by The Barry Kilby Prostate Appeal, who he will soon be running the Rochdale 10k for. Although the test came back clear, a second PSA test the following season diagnosed Keith with Gleason 6 Prostate Cancer, which really knocked him for six.

Currently, prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer for men, with one in eight affected and over-50s at a higher risk. It is advisable that men in this age category should nip down to their local GP surgery for a blood test.

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The former Latics and Dale star said: "I felt it was appropriate to attend, especially as Keith Hill, Rochdale’s manager at the time, was there as well.

"I've been receiving treatment from the NHS, with actions including three monthly assessments that are now down to half yearly to reassure that everything is fine.

"I'm really glad that I took part in the PSA Testing as I would still be walking around unaware of this condition, not receiving the present attention, but now I'm looking to the future in a better frame of mind."

Since hanging up his boots Keith has stayed connected to the game, working as Community Trust Manager for Rochdale AFC.