Jack Forster's family issue update on footballer - one week on from 'hit-and-run', as fundraising appeal tops £10,000
Last updated 8th Jan 2025
The sister of a footballer left fighting for his life in hospital after being struck by a car, in a suspected hit-and-run in Berwick on New Year's Day, says all she wants for her birthday next week is for her brother to open his eyes and give her a smirk.
Jack Forster (pictured above) remains in a coma following the incident, which unfolded in the town's Marygate, shortly after the bells chimed midnight last Wednesday (January 1st).
The 21-year-old, who is employed as a coach by the Newcastle United Foundation, had been out celebrating with friends when a car is alleged to have mounted the pavement and collided with him.
He was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle where he has undergone two operations on head injuries.
His family - including sister Rachael - issued the update in a statement thanking the public for their support, as an online crowd-funder set-up to help Jack get back on his feet tops £10,000.
They're reiterating their appeal for anyone with information about the incident to contact Northumbria Police.
Anyone who can help should call 101, quoting log number NP-20250101-0040. Those able to upload doorbell or dashcam footage can click here.
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The full statement reads: "Colin, Nicola, Rachael and all the family would like to thank everyone for their kind messages of support and donations to Jack's JustGiving appeal.
"Jack, who is 21, is currently still in a coma at Newcastle's RVI, where he has had two operations for head injuries suffered in the accident, in the early hours of January the 1st.
"We cannot thank the staff at the (intensive care unit) enough for the treatment Jack has received so far, however he still remains in a very critical state.
"We are truly overwhelmed by the support we have received from the local community, especially Jack's work colleague, Nicole Ainslie, who set up the JustGiving fund for Jack.
"We still urge anyone who has any information, or footage within the area at the time of the accident, to get in contact with the police."
Tweedmouth Prior Park First School - where Jack coaches youngsters - has announced it's holding a dress down day on Friday (January 10th) when pupils can wear their favourite football or sports top in return for a donation to the fundraising appeal.
It describes Jack - who plays for East of Scotland League side Coldstream - as "an amazing role model", who the children look up to; and, in a letter to parents, revealed the past week's developments has left staff "shocked".
Northumbria Police say a 24-year-old man arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, has been released under investigation.
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