TROWBRIDGE cricketer Billy Cookson is making progress in his recovery from serious injuries following a head-on smash in Australia.

The promising young player has been sitting up, talking and has even enjoyed his first shower since the accident on October 26.

The Trowbridge CC and Wiltshire CC wicketkeeper and middle order batsman received multiple injuries after crashing head-on into a bus.

Mr Cookson, who started his cricketing career with Chippenham CC and also played football for Corsham Town FC, had gone to Australia to play for Kyabram Cricket Club north of Melbourne.

Family friend Andy Laws, who coached Mr Cookson in Leeds, said: “He’s had his first shower in three weeks and has been sat up. It’s the first time he’s moved away from the hospital bed since the accident.”

Mr Cookson’s mother Tracy is still in Australia with her son, who faces a long recovery from his injuries.

A worldwide crowdfunding appeal has smashed through its £5,000 target and has so far raised £6,512 with 197 donations so far.

Tonight (Friday) (Nov 23), Trowbridge Cricket Club players are holding a charity auction at the County Ground to raise more money to help aid Mr Cookson’s recovery.

One of the top lots, which is being auctioned on ebay, is a one-to-one coaching session at Lords cricket ground in London with Kent CC captain Sam Billings. The bidding is already above £200.