By Mark HeathA YOUNGSTER who was seriously injured in a horrific road accident has shown signs of improvement - as friends of his family set up a fund to help them through the ordeal.

By Mark Heath

A YOUNGSTER who was seriously injured in a horrific road accident has shown signs of improvement - as friends of his family set up a fund to help them through the ordeal.

Kieran Seymour suffered serious head injuries in the crash in London Road, Ipswich, earlier this month that saw him, younger brother Ethan and grandparents Brian and Christine involved in a collision with a motorbike.

The six-year-old was initially placed on life support at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, but he has now been transferred to Ipswich Hospital, where his condition was said last night to be “satisfactory”.

It comes as friends of the family set up The Seymour Family Appeal Fund to help pay for any care or other items necessary in their rehabilitation process.

Since the accident Mr Seymour, 66, has had to have his right leg amputated below the knee, while his wife, 58, who suffered numerous broken bones in the smash, remains on a ventilator.

Ron Smith, family friend and neighbour, said last night: “Kieran's in a little room on his own and they are just waiting to assess his legs.

“He is not altogether with it, but he recognised us when we went to see him - he is better than he was.

“Brian and Christine have had their legs plated and pinned. Brian had a big cut on the back of his head and Christine had facial and pelvic injuries. She recognises you, but she can't speak because she's got a breathing tube in her neck.

“They are improving - not at a fast rate, but we notice a little improvement every time we see them. Ethan has been released from hospital and is doing well.”

Mr Smith's stepdaughter Sandra Noto, who has set up the family fund, added: “I know Brian and Christine and my children know Kieran and Ethan.

“I just wanted to do something to help the family in a practical way. I don't think people realise how extensive their injuries are and they have a long road of rehabilitation ahead of them.

“I just thought that if we could get some money to help to financially ease the burden, then that's what I wanted to do.”

Of the fund, Robert Seymour, one of the couple's three children, said: “It's a very nice gesture. They're decent people and it's not every day of the week that you meet people like that.”

Mr Seymour, 35, added: “It's just a matter of waiting - it's very frustrating. Dad is awake, but he's not too sure what's going on.

“He doesn't even know he's in hospital half of the time. It's upsetting to see. Mum is still on a ventilator.

“The family are pulling together and the support has been absolutely brilliant. People have been great.”

Anyone wanting to make a donation to the Seymour Family Appeal Fund can do so at any branch of Barclay's Bank, using sort code 20-44-51 and account number 20457760.

Alternatively send donations to Mrs Noto at 33 Appleby Close, Ipswich, IP2 9XF.

mark.heath@eadt.co.uk