United star breaks down derby barriers for fundraising effort

Tangerine grew up in same town as head injury victim

A Dundee United star was first in line to have his head shaved to raise money for an appeal set up by the family of injured former Dark Blues youth player John Black.

Like John, United’s Jamie Robson grew up in Blairgowrie and volunteered for the clippers on Wednesday to help the younger player get back on his feet.

The 20-year-old former Dundee FC development player was found with serious head injuries in a Dundee street at the start of last month.

He was taken to Ninewells Hospital following an alleged serious assault at Old Hawkhill, Dundee, in the early hours of October 8.

He spent more than a week on life support in hospital before doctors were confident enough to begin the “waking up” process on October 17.

The former Dark Blue is now in the high dependency unit as he continues his recovery.

His family was so grateful for the support he received at Ninewells Hospital they began fundraising for the accident and emergency, intensive care and neurological high dependency units at the hospital.

So far, their appeal has already raised £2,735, far in excess of the original £1,500 total.

However, that total is set to grow further as a number of John’s friends – including other players from United – shave their hair in aid of the appeal.

John’s sister Jenna posted: “John has been moved to high dependency where he will begin his journey to recovery surrounded by people who love him and health care professionals who are looking after him every step of the way.

“John is coping well in his new unit and we are all in complete awe of his sheer strength, fight and determination.

“Due to John’s surgery he has had part of his hair shaved so some of his friends have put themselves forward for a sponsored shave.”

Staff at the BT call centre in Dundee also arranged an auction of items, including a Real Madrid shirt signed by Welsh superstar Gareth Bale, to raise money for the hospital.

Robert Chambers, 23, has been charged in relation to the incident at Old Hawkhill and made an appearance at Dundee Sheriff Court on October 9.

He faced a charge of assault to severe injury and danger of life but made no plea.

The case was continued for further examination and Chambers, of Dundee, was released on bail.

John is coping well in his new unit and we are all in complete awe of his sheer strength

Picture: SNS. Dundee United’s Jamie Robson is from Blairgowrie, like head injury victim John Black, below and had no hesitation shaving his head to raise cash for a Ninewells ward.