A RUGBY union club is hosting a fun day at the weekend in aid of a player who had to have his spleen removed and almost died after suffering a horror injury in a match in August.

Martin Wallbank, of Common Lane, Tyldesley, lost four of the five litres of blood in his body after being tackled and landing backwards on top of the ball in a Tyldesley Rugby Union Football Club cup game against Charlton Park.

The 23-year-old plumber suffered a ruptured spleen and heavy internal bleeding and is unable to work as he recovers from life-saving surgery.

His teammates have organised the fun day at the club on Astley Street to help Martin financially.

Held from noon on Sunday, the event is free to attend and will feature DJ entertainment, a tag and pass competition, bouncy castle, barbecue, raffles, auctions and other games.

Martin, who has played for Tyldesley RUFC for 17 years, said: “The injury was quite innocuous – a player landed on me as I landed on the ball.

"I have never felt as low as I did following the incident.

"When I was in hospital it was really touch and go whether I would live or not at one stage.

"The fun day my friends have organised on my behalf is overwhelming and I am really grateful.”

His dad Eddie said: “We as a family are so grateful to the club for doing this for Martin and would really appreciate it if people turned out to support our son.

“Martin’s injury is usually seen in car accident victims. He lost four litres of blood when the body only carries five litres and his blood pressure was in single figures.

“He is still recovering and is still some months off being able to return to work fully.

"The money that will be raised at the fun day will help take away the stress of having bills to pay.”

All the money raised from the event will go to Martin.