FRIENDS and family of a York martial arts boxer stuck in a Thai hospital after a motorbike crash have held a charity football tournament to fundraise for him.

Christian Richardson, 32, from Gillygate, York, suffered serious injuries in the incident in April and is now being treated in a Thai hospital - too badly hurt to fly home.

On April 13, his motorbike was hit by a pick-up truck as he was leaving a coffee shop and Chris suffered multiple injuries and broken bones.

His sister, Emmy Watson, said: “Miraculously, he didn’t die or have any brain or spinal injuries.”

Now his family has launched a bid to raise £60,000 for the treatment Christian - known as ‘Chris’ - needs, and to get him back to York.

Family and friends of Chris' organised a charity football tournament at WePlay Football York to put towards the fundraising total - and they managed to hit over £1,500 with donations.

There were seven temas involved in the competition - with 'Baines Beans' claiming victory in the end.

Emmy added: "It’s vital we raise the funds to pay for his hospital bills. We have been absolutely blown away by all the kindness, support and generosity so far, we can’t thank people enough.

"It’s been an incredibly difficult time for us all. However, thankfully, Chris is being well looked after in Bangkok. He is currently too unwell to bring home due to the extent of his injuries and the cost of his care is phenomenal.

“To give you an idea, the first two days of treatment cost 1.1 million Thai baht, which is the same as £25,000.”

Chris, who works as a picture framer at the family business Gillygate Framing when he’s at home, was initially treated at a hospital in Koh Samui for three days, before being airlifted to Bangkok where he has undergone further surgery.

Chris has been living in Thailand for the last year. Before the accident, he took part in his first Muay Thai fight, which he won.

Emmy said their insurance company has been assessing the case, but a decision had not been made yet - and as a result the family has had to pay out significant sums of money.

The family is aming to hit the £60,000 mark - and they have raised more than £34,000 already.

Emmy has also organised an online raffle to fundraise for Chris - with over 50 prizes from local businesses up for grabs.

Emmy said: "The support we’ve had since this nightmare began has been incredible, the kindness of friends and customers has shown is overwhelming.

"Our prizes include a nights stay in Galtres lodge, a six course tasking meal for two from Hotel Du Vin and art from well know York artist, Emily Sutton."

The raffle remains open for 10 more days. To enter, visit: https://bit.ly/3IWmj4J

To donate to help Chris and his family, visit the GoFundMe page at: https://bit.ly/3KChWv7