Rochdale footballing hero Joe Thompson on encouraging children into sport after welcoming 'miracle' baby daughter following stillborn tragedy
A footballing hero who battled back twice from cancer to play for his boyhood hometown is hoping to inspire a whole new generation of sporting superstars. Former Rochdale AFC footballer Joe Thompson, who was was thrilled to welcome his second daughter Athena Rae five weeks ago with his wife Chantelle, was part of a special welcome reception as the Rugby League World Cup trophy arrived in Bolton last week, ahead of the England men's team taking on France at the University of Bolton Stadium on Saturday October 22