This is teenager Jack Blanchard, out of hospital just weeks after being left fighting for his life following a vicious attack.

The 13-year-old was enjoying a fund-raising day held in his honour at Bredhurst Nursery in Gillingham on Saturday.

Jack has spent the last five weeks at a specialist hospital in London after being attacked by a gang of youths on Parkwood Green.

The Rainham Mark Grammar School pupil has been left brain damaged and partially paralysed, but his mum Maxine says he is getting stronger everyday.

She added: “He is determined to get better. He is working really hard, doing everything the physiotherapists tell him to do.”

The fund-raising day was organised by friends at Rainham Kenilworth Youth Football Club. Soccer-mad Jack played for the under-14s last season and was team captain.

Maxine, 47, said she had been overwhelmed by the support she has received from friends and family.

She added: “When I arrived at the fun day and saw all the effort that had been made and how many people had turned up, I got a bit upset. I was amazed.

“It has really opened my eyes as to how much people care. The support we have had is fantastic. I can’t thank people enough.”