A FORMER sailor whose life was blighted by devastating injuries suffered when knocked down by a taxi has won £1.5 million in damages.

Francis Sweeney, 47, from Twydall, Gillingham, sustained fractures to the upper and middle sections of his right leg, plus a shattered left thigh, in the accident in June 2003. He also suffered head wounds.

But his "greatest misfortune" stemmed from a virulent hospital infection he developed after the accident, his barrister, Robert Percival, told the High Court.

The infection resulted in a stroke, leading in turn to violent epileptic seizures during which he fell and broke both hips.

Mr Sweeney, a former Royal Navy man, was injured when hit by a taxi while walking home late at night in New Road, Chatham, the court heard.

READ THE FULL STORY IN MONDAY'S MEDWAY MESSENGER.