MORE than £25,000 has been raised for a dad who has been left in a coma after severe bleed on the brain.

Neil Ridewood, 47, who was born and grew up in Basildon, suffered a brain aneurysm rupture earlier this month which left him fighting for his life.

The dad-of-two remains in a coma in Italy, where he moved with his wife Marika.

More than £25,000 has since been raised after a GoFundMe was set up by one of his best friends, Ross Dee, 45, with support from his other close friends Alex Woodward and Stephen Cole.

Neil’s parents and wider family continue to live in Basildon and have been overwhelmed with the support.

Ross said: “Anyone who knows Neil would never have a bad thing to say. He is an absolute gent and a lovely man.

“We grew up together all regularly playing golf.

“On March 4, he suffered a brain aneurysm rupture which has left him in a coma. Moments prior to this Neil was ‘in fantastic health and fit’.

“Neil is also a lovely husband to Marika and dedicated father to two sons, James, and Jack.

“This has deeply affected their lives.

“His possible impact on those around him is immeasurable, and now he needs our support.”

Neil continues to fight and remains in a coma but is due to be coming off coma medication soon.

Ross added: “We are kind of a group of four friends that rarely see each other now due to living far apart.

“But we felt we had to do something to help out Marika and the boys.

“We wanted to help ease the financial burden on the family. The funds will go towards medical expenses, supporting Marika, James, and Jack, and taking away additional stress.

“Marika works part time while juggling the boys and going to see Neil in hospital, which is around a four-hour train journey. So, the money is a huge help.

“We are immensely grateful every for helping us reach the target.

“The generosity has made a significant impact.”

To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/support-neil-ridewoods-family.