Smashing gesture by Jamie to help cat

Badminton ace is raising funds from New Zealand

is a special, friendly pet to us, so the decision was made to give him a chance at survival and hope he can continue to be a fun, happy animal, who will receive the love he has before.

“Jake successfully came through surgery to wire his jaw and face for six weeks, but we await the news on his eyes and other injuries. The cost of his operations and subsequent monitoring and after care has reached four figures.

“Hence, I’ve set this fundraiser up on my own to support my mum and Derek from 18,000 miles away. Your generous funds will help my family afford the expensive medical bills related to this accident, and lessen the impact of such an already painful and unforgettable experience for my mum.

“I can’t thank you enough in advance for even the smallest donation in supporting us and please know that you’re contributing to saving a very special animal’s life, plus all of our mental and financial recovery, with our without Jake.”

So far the total raised for the animal has reached more than £500.

Jamie, who has moved to set up coaching elite badminton in New Zealand, updated his post yesterday, saying that the animal had received a blood transfusion via his gran’s cat and it has boosted Jake’s system.

He wrote: “Jake is anaemic and had a 14 per cent red blood cell count but is now up to the appropriate 36 per cent mark. It breaks me to see his face so damaged — my mum is still immensely upset. He’s a fighter and will get home soon, but a lot of care is needed and it’s believed he will lose his right eye. Sad times but made easier by your donations. Thank you.”

Anyone who is interested in donating can do so through gofundme.com by searching for ‘Jamie Neill’.