Club News
An Evening with Michael Appleton and Richard O’Donnell - in support of Prostate Cancer UK.
Shrewsbury Town are pleased to invite supporters to an evening with Michael Appleton and Richard O’Donnell, with proceeds going to Prostate Cancer UK.
Our head coach and assistant head coach will take to the stage at the Croud Meadow on Thursday, November 13, for a special night of football chat and fundraising.
The event, hosted by BBC Radio Shropshire’s Stuart Dunn, will begin at 7pm.
Stuart will put questions to Michael and Rich about their careers and all things Shrewsbury Town - before opening the floor for supporters to join in with their own questions.
The evening will raise funds for Prostate Cancer UK, a cause very close to Richard’s heart, as he prepares to run the London Marathon on April 26 next year in memory of his dad.
“My dad passed away on June 6 this year after an almost nine-year battle with Prostate Cancer,” Rich said.
“He had no symptoms and no family history of the disease, but when he was diagnosed he was already at stage four.
“It really did come out of nowhere - but his positivity right from the very start was incredible.
“My dad was passionate about raising awareness of Prostate Cancer – as it affects one in eight men in the UK and one in four black men.
“And I made a promise to him before he passed that I would continue to raise that awareness.”
Rich will now run the London Marathon on April 26 next year.
“I actually got a phone call from Prostate Cancer UK on the way to our friendly against Stoke in pre-season,” he continued.
“They said they had a spot available and – as I’d expressed an interest in the past - they asked me if I would like to run.
“It will be the first time I have ever done anything like this, but I want to make the charity and my dad proud.
“So many people are affected by Prostate Cancer. I just want to help raise the profile and encourage men to get tested because the first step nowadays is just a very simple blood test.”
Rich begins his marathon training next week.
“I need to get my legs moving again and then I’ll start building up the distance,” he continued.
“My best mate is a consultant doctor, he’s going to run it with me and we’ve promised each other we’ll cross the finish line together.
“So if you see me pounding the streets of Shrewsbury in the evenings, you’ll know why!”
Joining Michael and Richard on stage next month will be former Chelsea, Brighton, Leeds and Sunderland midfielder Liam Bridcutt.
Liam previously played under Town’s management duo at both Lincoln and Blackpool.
“Brids has got some incredible stories from his career,” Rich added.
“He started as a kid at Chelsea when Roman Abramovich had just taken over. He then had spells at Brighton, Leeds and Sunderland.
“He has got loads of stories about the players he has played with against. He’s a great lad and will provide great entertainment on the night.”
Rich is hoping to raise £2,500 for Prostate Cancer UK by taking part in the London Marathon.
You can donate to his JustGiving page by clicking HERE.
Tickets for the night with Richard, Michael and Liam cost £10 for adults, £8 for concessions and £5 for under-14s.
You can purchase them by clicking HERE.
