Big-hearted fans present donation to family of Derry footballer critically injured in city centre assault

Supporters of a Derry football club have raised money to help the family of a young player who recently suffered a serious head injury.

Niall Grace, 23, who plays for Institute, was was critically injured during an incident in Derry’s city centre in the early hours of September 11 last..

He was initially treated for his injuries at Altnagelvin Hospital but was transferred to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, where he remained in intensive care for some time.

However, he made a steady recovery and his family and friends were delighted recently when he was discharged from hospital.

During his recovery, his family spent a lot of money on travel and accommodation.

In a bid to help the Grace family with these costs, members and supporters of Institute organised a fundraising campaign.

As a result, they managed to raise the sum of £3,700.

Niall and his parents were guests at Institute’s home game on Saturday against Warrenpoint during which they were presented with a cheque (pictured).

A 22-year-old man has been charged in connection with the incident during which the young footballer was injured.