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Gulls hit hard by Todd news

Torquay United captain Chris Hargreaves says his team have been reeling since hearing that team-mate Chris Todd had been diagnosed with Leukemia.

The Welshman revealed the horrific news to the team prior to the Gulls' record-breaking 4-1 defeat of Lewes at Plainmoor on Tuesday night.

Torquay set a new club record of 15 games without a loss, including eight victories on the spin, but Todd's team were said to be distraught since hearing about his illness.

"The lads were really devastated and some couldn't come to terms with it," Hargreaves told BBC Radio Devon.

"It was just silent, it was a really poignant moment for Toddy and themselves," he added.

"It was extremely quiet in the changing room before the game. The stereo normally goes on but I think out of respect no-one wanted to press that button.

"It's a massive shock and you just can't find the words for it, it's just so out of the ordinary."

The team celebrated their opening goal against Lewes by flying Todd's number six jersey as a tribute to the brave star.

Hargreaves also added that he thought Todd was an inspiration for the rest of the team.

"Having seen him and the way he is, you can't get the lad down, he's an absolutely top lad.

"It's been really refreshing for everyone to see how he's taken it and the sort of character he is.

"That's why it hit people so hard, because he is such a great lad. You can't come across a stronger lad than him."