Bristol Rovers' Raynor diagnosed with bowel cancer

What the report says

Bristol Rovers assistant head coach Paul Raynor has said he has been diagnosed with bowel cancer, according to BBC Sport Football. In comments published by the club and reported by the BBC, the 60-year-old said doctors found a tumour after he submitted a sample, and he will begin chemotherapy and radiotherapy later this month.

Raynor said the cancer had not spread to any major organs, which he described as an encouraging sign, and he said he had been told the chances of successful treatment were high. He added that he expects to stay involved with the club as much as possible while he is treated, including being around on matchdays when he is well enough.

The BBC report says Raynor joined Bristol Rovers boss Steve Evans at the Memorial Stadium in December 2025 and helped the club avoid relegation from League Two. The pair have worked together at nine clubs over about 25 years, including Boston United, Crawley Town, Rotherham United, Leeds United and Stevenage.

Raynor also used the interview to encourage others to complete medical tests and screening, saying the cancer was only discovered after his wife urged him to send in a sample. The situation matters not only for Rovers, who are among the clubs viewed as promotion contenders this season, but also as a reminder of the importance of early detection.