A construction company has pledged its support to a BBC renovation programme which is aiming to transform the home of a Suffolk family who had their lives changed forever by a vicious attack.
DIY SOS: The Big Build will improve the Mildenhall home of Cambridge United fan Simon Dobbin after a brutal, unprovoked attack by a gang of men left him permanently brain damaged.
Simon, a loving father and husband, was set-upon by around 25 men after watching Cambridge play away at Southend United FC. He was left fighting for his life in intensive care after a massive stroke and bleed on the brain.
The 13 men convicted of involvement in the attack were described as acting like a 'pack of animals'. They were jailed for more than 42 years in total.
READ MORE: Family of Simon Dobbin 'utterly overwhelmed' after DIY SOS offers to rebuild Mildenhall homeAfter many months in hospital, Simon is now finally home and living with his wife and full-time carer, Nicole.
The house is now unfit for purpose, and is inhibiting the rehabilitation process and placing continued strain on the family's life.
The project is completely reliant on the support and generosity of the community and tradespeople and Mick George Ltd, who sponsor Cambridge United, have come forward to pledge more than £7,000 worth of products and services.
The construction company will predominately provide skips and waste management to ensure the 'big build' remains on schedule.
The renovation will include a downstairs extension, with all the bespoke care provision that Simon will need: a bedroom, physio space, wet-room, social space and the ability to access the entire ground floor and rear garden.
Jon Stump, finance director at Mick George, said: 'This is just another example of how the local community is willing to unite for a fantastic cause.
'We have an affiliation with the project in a number of ways. Naturally our service and product offering lends itself to the 'build', as does our link with Cambridge United FC, as their front of shirt sponsor.
'Anything we can do to assist with Simon's recovery process and the ability to improve his standard of life is something that we'd welcome.'
The renovation will take place from November 14-23. Email DIYSOSMildenhall@bbc.co.uk if you can help.
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