IPSWICH: Parents of an Ipswich boy who spent 16 days in hospital after colliding with a car today said they have been overwhelmed by the kindness of neighbours, friends and work colleagues.

Thomas Jacques, of Goring Road, sustained serious head injuries which saw him taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, in Cambridge, and put on a ventilator.

After being kept in the hospital for 11 days, the 10-year-old was then transferred back to Ipswich Hospital for a further five days.

The Britannia Primary School pupil is now back at home, but still receiving treatment for the effects of his accident which left him with limited movement on his right-hand side, although it is now returning thanks to physiotherapy.

While Thomas was in hospital neighbours had a collection to raise money and sent him a get well card.

Thomas’ mum Carolyne, who has two other children Samuel, nine, and Aimee, 13, said: “Our neighbour went round with a collection. She has been brilliant and everyone in the road has been really good.

“Thomas has used the money to buy some Lego and Meccano which he loves, and this will aid his recovery. He also bought himself a new Manchester United football shirt to replace the one that sadly had to be cut off in hospital.”

Thomas was cycling with a friend in Goring Road, on July 8, when he went on to the road from the pavement. A car going in the same direction pulled round parked cars and collided with him.

Mrs Jacques, who was alerted by Thomas’ friend’s mother, said: “He was unconscious as soon as his head hit the ground and he had a bleed on the brain.

“We felt useless as a mum and dad because we couldn’t help. We were distraught, but we are thankful for the wonderful support of the nurses and doctors.”

Thomas’ dad Ian stressed the family do not blame the driver of the car and hope they have recovered from the accident.

Staff and teachers at Britannia Primary School also had a collection for Thomas, as did Mrs Jacques’ work colleagues at Suffolk Integrated Health Care.

The Jacques decided to donate the total of �120 to the Sick Children’s Trust which provides support, and a place to stay at hospitals, for the parents of children who are ill.

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