Barrow: Darren Holt confirms cancer after treatment removes tumour

Barrow Raiders coach Darren Holt has handed responsibilities to assistants Phil Atkinson and Dean Marwood while recovering from treatment for cancer.

The 36-year-old had a tumour removed earlier this week and is hopeful of making a return to first-team duties in early August.

"I've had an operation and the operation has gone well," Holt told the North West Evening Mail.

Holt made 305 appearances for Barrow and is the club's record points scorer.

He added: "I'm obviously in a bit of pain now and I just have to go to the follow-up to find out if the cancer has spread and what stage it is at."

Hong Kong-born Holt has played for all three Cumbrian professional clubs, with stints at Workington and Whitehaven in addition to several periods with Barrow.