Teenager Jay Ryles-Jenkins has amazed doctors by beginning to recover from a coma after more than two months.

Jay, 16, was captaining Sheldon School rugby team when he hit his head during a final match against Hardenhuish School in Chippenham on March 25.

He fell into a coma and was airlifted to Frenchay Hospital in Bristol where doctors feared he may never recover.

But now, although still in what is known as a wakeful coma, he is communicating with his mother Sue Jenkins, 42, sister Lois, 12, and brother Harry, 11, by shutting his eyes to indicate ‘yes’ and ‘no’.

Ms Jenkins said: “He is making an amazing recovery and one that some doctors didn't think was possible.

“He communicates by shutting his eyes tightly and he can see out of his right eye.

“It is a miracle and I honestly think it is down to the amount of love and support given by our friends.”

A titanium plate is being made to insert into the skull of Jay, who has had several operations.

Ms Jenkins has also praised the support of strangers, such as Bath rugby star Dave Barnes who went to see Jay and the Boots employee who went from Chippenham to Bristol to give Jay his favourite aftershave.

Ms Jenkins had been told that Jay would respond well to smells from home but, when she went to Boots in Southmead to buy his favourite Hugo Boss aftershave, she was told that it had been discontinued.

Once she explained why she wanted it the assistant found some in another store and travelled from Southmead to Frenchay with the aftershave, plus a pampering kit for Ms Jenkins.

Ms Jenkins said, who is delighted by people’s support, said: “I have had cards from members of different churches and some people have even taken my younger children bowling.”

Ms Jenkins would appreciate fundraising for rehabilitation equipment and can be contacted through the Barbara Russell Childrens Unit at Frenchay Hospital.

Sheldon School headteacher Gerard MacMahon said: “Jay is a very determined young man.

“We know that he will be battling hard to recover and we are encouraged by his progress.”

Head of year Paul Weller said Jay’s friends are hoping to hold another prom when he is well enough as he missed out on his Year 11 ball last month.

Classmates are returning to school on June 26 to take part in the annual Olympic Day run in the hope of raising £1,000 for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance in Jay’s name.