By Cara Sulieman
A CHARITY football match is to be held to help raise money for a Scot who was left fighting for his life after being hit by a car on honeymoon.
John Tams, 30, was on holiday with his new wife Nicola when they were mowed down by a speeding motorist in Sorrento.
Nicola, 31, suffered broken ribs and was treated in hospital before being released after the accident two weeks ago.
But John is still in intensive care after he had to be put in a medically induced come to treat head and facial injuries.
His leg, pelvis and ribs were also smashed in the accident.
Now legends from Hearts FC will play the two teams John plays for to raise cash for the couple.
Former club players Gary Mackay, Henry Smith and John Robertson are among those volunteering to play.
The money raised will be used to pay for his new wife and family to be at his bedside in Naples and fund John’s medical bill.
The teacher plays for Hearts supporter’s team Real Maroon and amateur team Duddingston Athletic.
The former Jambos will play a side of Real Maroon players in the first half and the Duddingston team in the second half.
Iain Porterfield, Real Maroon manager, said: “On behalf of the club I am delighted to have this opportunity to help John in such a fitting manner.
“He is a Real Maroon club legend – anyone from the oldest veteran to the youngest newcomer will tell you that.
“The support the club has received for John has been overwhelming, and whatever we raise will hopefully go a long way to helping his recovery.”
Each player will have to raise a minimum of £50 towards the cause.
Mikey Dixon, manager of Duddingston Athletic, said: “As a club we are delighted to do anything we can to help out John, Nicola and their families in this time of need and are honoured to join forces with Real Maroon to play in a fundraising match with the Hearts Legends.
“I would like to thank all the Hearts’ Legends on behalf of Duddingston Athletic for giving us this opportunity to raise as much money as we can for a much loved friend and teammate.
“I look forward to a great day’s entertainment and even more so to the day when John pulls on the red and black shirt of Duddingston Athletic again.”
Hearts have also donated a signed shirt to be raffles and a signed kit which will be auctioned off.
Lawrence Broadie, Heart of Midlothian FC marketing manager, said: “We’re very pleased to be able to support John and Nicola at this extraordinarily difficult time.
“The players and coaches were in Italy at the time of hearing about their accident and they were very shocked to hear the news.
“It goes without saying that everyone at Tynecastle extends their best wishes to them both.
“Indeed Jim Jefferies has written to them wishing them a speedy recovery.”
The match will kick off a 3pm on September 5 at New Dundas Park, home of Bonnyrigg Rose.
Entry is £3 for adults, £1 for under 18s and free for children under five.
