Look Who it Was Random video

Meet Craig Bryden, the 'Pompey Pirate'

3,682 views · Published 13 April 2016 · 3:48 · Indexed 30 October 2026

Channel: Portsmouth FC · 2016 · Sports

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Ahead of Saturday's clash with Plymouth Argyle, we caught up with the man who will lead both sides out at Fratton Park, Craig Bryden, as he spent the day at Pompey's training ground.

After being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, Bryden decided to attend his first chemotherapy session dressed as a pirate, as a way of trying to raise other patients' spirits.

And after a chance meeting with a stranger on a bus, a photo of the man coined the 'Pompey Pirate' was posted online, and has now been seen by millions worldwide.

Becoming an online sensation for his enviable bravery and humour in the face of death, the former Navy steward - who has lived in Portsmouth since 1977 - has had plenty of close shaves before.

He was on board HMS Sheffield when it was sunk by an Exocet missile during the Falklands War, before serving in Beirut and then as part of front-line air defence on HMS Gloucester in the first Gulf War.

Bryden was also present at Holgate tube station moments before a bomb was detonated, and had a similar close call in Turkey when a bomb was let off whilst on holiday with his wife.

It's no wonder then that his outlook towards his cancer battle has been so upbeat, and the fight so strong within him.

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