FORMER Ipswich Town footballers and friends of a man seriously injured in an accident with a digger came together for a charity match in his honour.

Gavin Frost was left critically ill after being hit by a nine-tonne digger bucket while carrying out work in an 18ft hole in Fenton’s Way, Grange Farm, Kesgrave, on January 21.

Suffering a string of injuries, the talented footballer has faced two operations and countless therapy sessions during his recovery.

The impact broke his jaw bone in three places, left him with a fractured skull, a broken cheek bone and eye socket, broken ribs and severe cuts to his face. The 33-year-old also suffered a paralysed right vocal cord, meaning he struggles to speak and can’t eat or drink.

Hundreds of people turned out for the charity match between Ipswich Wanderers and Ransomes Sports, both clubs he played for, at Humber Doucy Lane on Friday.

Several of Mr Frost’s friends and former team-mates played in the match alongside Ipswich Town legends Fabian Wilnis and John Wark.

Ipswich Wanderers chairman Terry Fenwick said: “It was a very successful night for a very lovely local footballer and I would like to say thanks to everyone for turning up to raise plenty of money for Frosty.

“Gavin came with his family to thank people which was great to see.

“I’d also like to thank Chris Howlett and Goddard and Co estate agents for sponsoring the evening.”

With both teams fielding line-ups combining their current squads with players who have played with Mr Frost at other clubs, it was Ransome Sports who ran out victorious with a 7-2 result.

Mr Frost’s mum Julie Frost, of Lindbergh Road, Ipswich, said: “On behalf of Gavin, his partner, parents and family, we would like to show our appreciation by thanking each and every one of you who attended Gavin’s event to support him - what an amazing turn out.

“Gavin sends special thanks to Peter Gorham, of Ransomes Sports Football Club, and Terry Fenwick, of Ipswich Wanderers Football Club, for organising the event at Ipswich Wanderers’ ground on Friday.

“Also to James Buckle and all the players who gave up their time to play in this event for Gavin.

“It turned out to be absolutely brilliant and sometimes quite emotional as Gavin made his brave entrance to see many of his friends for the first time since before his accident.

“Once again his partner, his parents and family would like to thank each and every one of you so much.”

To donate to the fund, call Terry Fenwick on 07796 077844 or Peter Gorham on 07772 092007.

n Send your messages of support to Gavin Frost – write to Your Letters, Ipswich Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or send an e-mail to starletters@archant.co.uk