DIY SOS has started work on transforming the house of Simon Dobbin, who was left severely brain injured after being attacked by football hooligans.

Cambridge United supporter Simon Dobbin was attacked in East Street, Southend, at 7.15pm on March 21, 2015.

A total of 13 Southend United fans were eventually convicted of playing a part in the incident, which left him unable to walk or talk. The 45-year-old’s wife Nicole, 46, is now his full-time carer.

Nick Knowles and his team from the BBC show were spotted working on the house, in Cambridge, yesterday, as well as hundreds of local helpers and tradespeople.

The build, which will end on November 23, will include a downstairs extension, a bedroom, physio space, wet room and social space for Simon.

Nicole told the Mirror previously: “I’m totally and utterly overwhelmed by all the offers of help, I’m very excited that Simon will now have the space he deserves. Since the court case it has been very difficult.

“But with the help of DIY SOS and the response from the community, it has been a massive pick me up for myself, Simon and our daughter Emily.

“We have also been offered suitable accommodation for us to stay in while the build takes place.

“The DIY SOS team have been in contact with us for some time now, but due to the court case were unable to proceed until this was over.

“We now have something to look forward to, and are excited about Christmas in a new home - the changes that will be made to the house will improve not only Simon’s life, but ours as a family.”

Mr Dobbin has been left with severe physical and mental damage after the attack, including regularly choking on his own saliva, leaving his wife petrified he will choke to death.