A TRUST fund has been set up by the family of Dr Sophie Williams to enable her to return to the home she shares with her partner.

Sophie, who is a leading university lecture, fell critically ill after she was infected with a Japanese encephalitis in south-east China in July 2015, while undertaking research with students from Bangor University

The virus has paralysed Sophie, 32, who still requires a ventilator, and she was recently transferred from Ysbyty Gwynedd, in Bangor, Wales, to a rehabilitation centre in Bury.

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Her father, Mike Williams, who is the owner of Castlegate News, in Malton, said: "Sophie has feelings in her fingers and slight movement in her neck. She is battling all the time and continues to teach from her hospital bed."

Mike said although Sophie continued to make good progress she would always need 24-hour care and the aim was to raise about £60,000 to adapt the home she shared with her partner Dr Robert Annewandter in Sling, near Bangor.

"The trust has been set up to extend and adapt the house to Sophie's needs," he said. "We need to alter the house to provide three bedrooms, two shower rooms and suitable access.

"The house is in a wonderful location with amazing views. Everytime it is mentioned to Sophie about returning home her face and eyes light up.

"Sophie has amazed everyone with her recovery and remains very positive. She never complains and to enable her to return home would be such a tremendous boost for her."

Robert said they were now hoping to improve Sophie's core strength so that she could lead a more independent life.

"Getting Sophie back home will be tremendously beneficial to her recovery," he said.

"It's up in the hills in North Wales with a fantastic view over Anglesey and Puffin Island. It's the community she helped form years ago, the community which has supported her incredibly in getting better.

"Our life is now suspended for almost two years. Once we can return, we can finally have a meaningful live again."

Sophie said: "I have visited home before I went to rehab a few weeks ago. It was really good to see our house and the planned renovations. I hope I can return sometime soon permanently."

Anyone who would like to make a donation to the Sophie Williams Trust can do so at Castlegate News in Malton or phone Mike Williams on 01944 758200. Cheques can also be sent to Sarah Edgar, Tan y Felin Wen, Rhosbodrual, Caenarfon, Gwynedd, LL55 2BB.