WREXHAM midfielder James Jones has spoken about the 'overwhelming' support he and his family have received in their fundraising journey.

A fundraiser set up by the Reds star is nearing its £20,000 target and now he has told the Leader just how much the support means.

James and wife Chloe have been raising money for the intensive care units at both Wrexham Maelor and Bolton hospitals (adult and neonatal), as well as Spoons, the charity that supported them through their difficult journey.

Their baby boy, Jude, was born 15 weeks premature on November 19 2022, weighing 1lb 4oz (640g).

On that day, as shown on the Welcome to Wrexham series, Chloe was at the Cae Ras stadium just about to watch the Reds kick-off against Aldershot Town when she started to experience severe pain in the top of her stomach.

Up until this point, Chloe’s pregnancy had been completely normal, but she was rushed to Wrexham hospital by James’ parents and shortly after arriving, it became apparent that things were not looking good for both Chloe and her unborn baby.

She was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia and despite multiple attempts to lower her blood pressure it became apparent that the situation was becoming increasingly dangerous.

James at the time was on the football pitch and had in fact, just scored. Fortunately, the message got through to him and manager Phil Parkinson immediately substituted him and sent him on his way.

Still wearing his football kit, he was driven to the Maelor hospital and Jude was delivered by emergency caesarean section shortly afterwards. He was born extremely premature at just 25 weeks + 1 day and only had a 40% survival rate.

Jude was in hospital for 122 days in total which the couple say were the 'hardest days of their lives'.

He left hospital on March 21, 2023, without oxygen - which was a huge accomplishment for Jude as not many babies born so early are able to leave without that.

According to James and Chloe, he is 'beating all odds and is absolutely thriving'.

The fundraiser - which can be donated to here - has so far collected £18,300 (correct at time of writing) of its £20,000 target.

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Wrexham AFC's famous co-chairmen Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney also previously donated £10,000 to the cause.

Now the Reds' midfielder has spoken about the support he and his family have received. 

Jones told the Leader: "It has been a bit crazy but I massively appreciate everyone that has shared the story and donated.

"The support has been overwhelming from everywhere and that money will go a long way to help other people in the future.

"It is going to a good place."