Darren Ward

Darren Ward

Millwall defender Darren Ward is already planning for life after football after taking over the running of his local cattery.

Centre back Ward, 32, bought the Silverware Cattery three years ago to add to an impressive business empire, which includes a trophy shop and financial advice company.

Ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers star Ward is as proud of his off-field achievements as anything he has done during his playing career.

Ward said “It's the biggest cattery in Hertfordshire. People bring their cats from miles around. We're regarded as the Ritz of catteries."

“We were looking to run a business and we thought 'why not?' when we saw it. It is important to plan for a life after football."

“People give us their cats to look after when they go on holiday or want a break. We can look after 52 cats at any one time and people pay us £8 pounds a day.”