by Chris Hunter

A Maidstone man is fighting for his life after a motorbike accident in Bali, Indonesia.

Richard Plummer, originally from Loose, suffered severe head injuries when he crashed earlier this month and would have died if he hadn't been found by a passer-by.

With no travel insurance, 32-year-old Mr Plummer remains in a coma in a poorly equipped hospital and family members are desperate to either bring him home, which will cost in excess of £100,000, or move him to a better site.

Mr Plummer's parents Eric and June have already spent most of their life savings trying to arrange for medical care, and are now trying to raise further funds to save their son.

Maidstone MP Helen Grant stepped in on Saturday July 16 to launch an emergency appeal to raise £4500 for plane tickets and accommodation so that the Plummers, together with their other son Rob, could fly out to be by Richard's side.

An unknown benefactor quickly stepped in to cover the costs until the full amount can be raised - a feat which had very nearly been achieved by yesterday - with the family flying out in the morning.

"It shows the heart and spirit of Kent people," said Mrs Grant. "Times are tough but when the chips are down the community are looking after one of their families."

Born at Maidstone hospital, Richard was brought up in Loose and attended Loose infants & junior school before going to Oldborough Manor school in Boughton Lane.

Read the full story in this week's Kent Messenger.