PNE fan fights for life after Australia road smash

Doctors are battling to save the life of John McDougall, who has been working as a utility technician Down Under for the past four years. He is in a critical condition in intensive care unit of a hospital in Perth following the smash at the weekend.

The mother, brother and aunt of the 30-year-old from Fulwood have made a 9,000-mile dash to be at his bedside as he fights for his life.

“John has got multiple injuries – life-threatening injuries,” said his friend Mick Casey.

“His family are out there with him at his bedside and they are asking everyone to keep John in their prayers.”

The crash happened on Saturday night in the Perth suburb of Mount Lawley.

Police say John was riding a Honda motorcycle at about 9.45pm.

As he approached an intersection, the bike veered into the central island, became airborne and struck a telegraph pole.

John was taken to the Royal Perth Hospital where he is reported to be critical in a coma in the intensive care unit.

His family was informed back in Preston and mum Honor, brother Craig and aunt Alison all flew out on Sunday to be with him in hospital.

“The cost of air travel and accommodation is very expensive and we thought the best way we could help was to start a crowdfunding appeal,” explained Mick.

“John’s family is very grateful to everyone who has donated money. They can’t thank them enough.”

Preston-born John and his brother lived in Longsands with their father, who passed away 12 years ago. The pair lived together in the home their dad used to live in on Redsands Drive until John moved to Australia around four years ago.

He is a former pupil of St Teresa’s RC primary School and St Cecilia’s High.

Friends say he loves football – PNE in particular – and has been a fan since childhood.

More than 180 people have contributed to the JustGiving appeal to help John’s family. Yesterday the total stood at more than £6,000.

Amongst the donations was one for £500 from his employers with the message: “Everyone at Abaxa is sending energy and support to you to pull through.”

Another contributor, Katy Graham, wrote: “Your home town are behind you - sending love and strength to you all.”

To make a donation go to JustGiving and find: Mick Casey - Crowdfunding to help the family of John McDougall.