Paul Canoville, Chelsea’s first black player, backs barber shop campaign to raise cash for Macmillan Cancer Support

Chelsea’s first-ever black footballer is lending his support to a barber shop which is raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Yianni Hapeshis, 30, owner of Barber Jack & Son, in Portland Road, South Norwood, is running a raffle, with the chance of winning the Barber Jack & Son ‘Deluxe Package’ – a VIP-worthy haircut, beard trim and facial treatment.

The prize has a value of £40. And tickets to enter the draw are just £1. All funds raised will go to help Macmillan’s work supporting people with cancer.

And Chelsea’s first-ever black player, Paul Canoville, is lending his support to the campaign.

Yian explained why he was inspired to both fundraise for Macmillan and promote the support that the cancer charity can provide:

He said: “I, like many people, have had loved ones who’ve been impacted by this horrible disease, so I want to raise awareness of cancer and the support available from Macmillan.

“I feel like the least I can do is help in any way that I can and help get awareness out there. I feel like it’s important in life that we celebrate positivity and help spread love and support.

“I recently had the privilege of interviewing Chelsea legend Paul Canoville about his cancer experience and speaking with him really gave me an insight as to how much Macmillan does and how much they really help.

“It was a real pleasure speaking to Paul, not only because of who he is and what he’s done in football, but it was really refreshing to hear a man open up about what he went through and encouraging people to go get checked if something doesn’t feel right. He’s a real interesting man. A strong, strong man.”

Mr Canoville said: “I take my hat off to Yian. For a young man, his community spirit is inspirational. This is why I felt compelled to support his efforts to create awareness of Macmillan’s work.

“I’ve been both affected by cancer and impacted by Macmillan, and after having beaten cancer three times, I know first-hand how vital the work of Macmillan is in the saving of lives and provision of hope.

“I would like to thank Yian for inspiring me. As a result of being involved in his fundraiser, I have decided to create a virtual support group for Afro-Caribbean men that are living with cancer – to help encourage others and help reduce the taboo of cancer within the black community.”

Mr Canoville was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 1996. His cancer has been in remission since 2005. His autobiography, Black and Blue: How Racism, Drugs and Cancer Almost Destroyed Me, has won numerous literary awards.

Pictured top: Barber Jack & Son