David May: Former Man Utd defender tells of dementia fear

The mayors hosted an event with Football Families for Justice, which was the largest gathering of former professional footballers from across the North, to raise awareness of the need for more support for ex-players and their families in dealing with dementia and neurodegenerative diseases.

The meeting heard first-hand testimony from former players, their families, MPs, medical experts and campaigners.

May, 54, told the BBC: “It’s something you don’t want to talk about, that is why we’re doing what we’re doing – it is emotionally draining for everybody.”

One of the campaign leaders is John Stiles, son of England Cup winning hero Nobby the Manchester United legend, who suffered from dementia and died in 2020.

Stiles, who played for Leeds United and Doncaster Rovers, said: “This is not just my dad’s era, it’s coming closer and closer.