He still needs a wheelchair but every day is another day of progress for Jack Blanchard.

The brave teenager, who suffered critical injuries after being attacked in a Rainham park, was home again from hospital this weekend, and went to support his football team from the sidelines.

Jack is still receiving treatment in hospital following the vicious assault which left him fighting for his life, but at the weekends he is allowed to come home.

The 13-year-old was with his parents at the Anchorians ground in Gillingham, watching his team, the Rainham Kenilworth Youth Football Club.

Jack has spent more than five weeks at Kings College Hospital in London after being attacked on Parkwood Green.

The Rainham Mark Grammar School pupil has been left brain damaged and partially paralysed but he is slowly improving. His mum Maxine said: “He is getting better every day.

“He will have to go back to the hospital this evening, and has to stay there until a residential place can be found for him to stay at while he recovers.”

This is the third time Jack has been able to leave the hospital and still needs to be helped round in his wheelchair, but is managing to walk a couple of steps.

A collection for Jack is being made by his football coach, Paul Merritt, and already more than £600 has been collected.

His mum has said it will be up to Jack what he spends the money on, but he may buy a laptop to help him with his school work.

If you would like to donate to Jack’s fund, contact Paul on 07816472298