FRIENDS of North Petherton cricketer Mondli Khumalo have started a crowdfunder fundraising page to support him and his family as he fights for his life in hospital.

So far the fundraising page has raised nearly £6,000 in less than 24 hours.

The South African overseas professional is currently in a critical but stable condition in Southmead Hospital after he was attacked in Bridgwater in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Bill Revans, leader of the Somerset Council has been Mondli's host for his time spent in North Petherton.

He said: “It has been a privilege to have Mondli stay with Rosie and me in our home for the last month.

"He is a gentle, polite and respectful young man who was enjoying staying in Somerset.

"All the North Petherton players and supporters have welcomed him and value him greatly.

"He helped the club hugely off the field, coaching our juniors and umpiring our women’s team. One of the mums and players Chantelle Lawrence has started a crowdfunder to support Mondli and his family in their hour of need.”

To donate to the fundraising page for Mondli, you can visit: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/support-mondli

Bridgwater Mercury: Friarn Street, Bridgwater near to where the attack took place and inset - Mondli Khumalo. Pictures: Google Maps/North Petherton CCFriarn Street, Bridgwater near to where the attack took place and inset - Mondli Khumalo. Pictures: Google Maps/North Petherton CC

A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm. He’s been interviewed and released under investigation so we can carry out more enquiries.

Supt Richard Turner from Avon and Somerset Police said: “We’re investigating a serious assault on 20-year-old Mondli Khumalo, who remains in a serious but stable condition in hospital after undergoing emergency treatment.

“A full investigation is under way and we’ve carried out house-to-house enquiries and are continuing to review CCTV footage from around the area, to ensure we gather all available evidence.

“We know there were a large number of people in the area at the time, and we’d appeal for any eye-witnesses to come forward, especially if anyone has mobile phone footage showing any part of this incident.”

If you can help, please call us on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5222126854.

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