Ex-footballer hurt in Afghanistan

A FORMER Suffolk footballer is recovering at home after he narrowly escaped being killed by a landmine in Afghanistan.

Ryan Hewson, who played for Haverhill Rovers last season, was injured in a landmine blast while serving with the Colchester-based 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery.

The striker, who is now back home with his parents, suffered shrapnel wounds and trauma as a result of the incident, which took place on September 12.

A spokesman for Colchester garrison confirmed Mr Hewson, who is a lance bombardier with the army, was travelling in a Land Rover when it struck the mine.

Terry McGerty, Haverhill Rovers president, said Mr Hewson had been a valuable member of the team, and wished him well.

“He played a number of games for us last season, and was very well-liked by the players, who used to socialise with him away from the pitch,” he said.

“I remember him telling me he had volunteered to go to Afghanistan, and he seemed to be really looking forward to it.

“The next thing I heard of him was when I learned of this incident. It was a real shock, but we are all very glad he is making a recovery.”

Mr Hewson, who was admitted to hospital in Birmingham on his return from Afghanistan, is now at home in Leeds, where he is expected to stay until at least later this month.

“I haven't seen Ryan since the end of last season, and I have not been able to make contact with him since this happened, but everyone at the club is really looking forward to seeing him again,” said Mr McGerty.

“The players have all signed a card for him, which I plan to put in the post, and we collected money at last weekend's match against Eastbourne, which we are going to send him as well, and we wish him all the best.”

lisa.cleverdon@eadt.co.uk