A SOLDIER left fighting for his life after being attacked in Southampton has regained consciousness.

Chris Jones, 21, opened his eyes and even communicated to his family just days after they feared he would never see them again.

His stepfather Roy Underhill told the Daily Echo that it had been a huge relief to the family who, along with his pregnant girlfriend, have been keeping a bedside vigil at Southampton General Hospital.

He said: “It’s fantastic. To say it is a relief is the biggest understatement in the world.

“About 48 hours ago we all thought he was at death’s door and were fearing the worst. Now he’s shown these signs of recovery we are all hoping he’ll keep going.

“He opened his eyes and his mum asked him if he knew who she was and he did. She told me that he also recognised his sister too.”

The soldier, who has just returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan, was left severely injured with a fractured skull after he was attacked in Anderson’s Road after a drink with friends in a nearby pub.

Anyone who has any information about the incident can contact Shirley CID quoting Operation Supervisor on 0845 045 4545 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.


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