A FUNDRAISING page has been set up to raise money for a schoolboy who suffered life threatening injuries in a car accident.

Twelve-year-old Solly Shamworth, who lives in Horns Road, Stroud, was in a coma after fracturing his skull and sustaining multiple breaks and open fractures to the lower left side of his body in the car crash last Saturday, February 1.

Solly, who attends Archway School, had just finished playing his first football match for Stroud Town U14s YFC since breaking his ankle in September when the accident occurred on the way home.

For two hours it was uncertain whether he would pull through.

After being treated in intensive care, Solly regained consciousness and he has now been moved to the high dependency unit at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.

The fractured skull caused bruising on Solly’s brain, with the full extent of the damage and how long it will take to rehabilitate currently uncertain.

He also suffered numerous injuries to his left leg, including a large open fracture to his thigh, a fractured shin, ankle and foot.

His ankle required eight hours of surgery alone, as muscle needed to be grafted from his thigh onto his ankle to save his lower limb.

The breaks to his foot will also affect Solly for life and may cause early arthritis.

As well as football, Solly also plays for Stroud Rugby Club, and his dream has always been to have a career in sport.

Solly’s mother Rose Illingworth said it will be a huge blow to him if this is no longer possible.

Rose said:“Solly has always been a very determined and independent lad, and he is strong and we will get through this.”

Chris Brown, Solly’s football coach at Stroud Town U14s YFC said: “Solly is an amazing lad on and off the field.

“He shows great effort and determination in everything he does.

“He is a popular and well-loved member of the team and we all wish him the very best in his recovery.”

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Solly, which will go towards initial costs, including physio, counselling and therapy, as well as supporting the family.

The family are also looking at getting Solly a computer and music writing programs, as music is his other big passion in life after sport.

To donate go to bit.ly/39ry542