THE devastated family of Halstead Town Football Club legend Shaun Bailey have revealed his brain tumour has returned.

The former player and manager was given a year to live but has been fighting back for three years and the brain tumour had started to shrink.

Tragically, during his latest check-up, a scan revealed the tumour is now growing again.

Brother Mick, 55, said: “He was doing quite well but he started to get symptoms about six weeks ago.

“He had his regular MRI which showed the tumour had grown back.

“He said this time around it feels a lot worse, he is having regular physio as he can’t use his right side.”

Shaun, 53, is taking medication and is due to undergo another MRI scan.

The tumour is inoperable, with surgeons concerned the symptoms would worsen if they hit the wrong nerve.

Wife Kristine said: “This recent recurrence has set him back physically, much worse than when he was first diagnosed, but his will and determination are incredible.

“It appears his new treatment is working, but we won’t know for sure for several more weeks.

“His right side is still very weak and he requires help with the most mundane tasks, but we see improvements every day.” Mick added: “It’s going to be a case of just waiting to see.

“He’s trying to stay positive and he is fighting it, he is determined.”

Shaun played for Colchester United’s youth teams and around the amateur leagues of north Essex. He played for Halstead Town FC between 1993 and 1996 and went on to become manager in 2000. He won two Jewson Premier League titles and a Jewson League Cup during his spells with the club.

Club secretary Steve Webber said: “Shaun has always been a huge supporter of the club whether it be as player, manager or a coach.

“We have held fundraisers for him before and the idea has been talked about for another charity football match.

“The club wish to offer all of our support and best wishes to Shaun in his battle. He is a very strong character.

“For all of his problems he is still very humble and he is going to battle this with all of his strength.”

Another former manager, Mark Benterman, is also organising the sale of ‘Stay Strong for Sean’ T-shirts.

Shaun moved to the US to be a football coach. A Facebook page, called Bailey Strong, was set up to raise funds. Search #Baileystrong on Twitter and Facebook or visit youcaring.com/shaunbailey-858624