Max's signal of hope 16 days after attack

11:00am Monday 12th May 2008

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THE parents of Max Blake have told of the moment he opened his eyes for the first time after being attacked outside a Grays club.

Nicholas and Evelyn Blake, of Grays, were at his bedside at Romford's Queens Hospital on Saturday when Max opened his eyes and squeezed a nurse's hand.

Max's mum Evelyn, 44, said: "Our hearts were breaking and we were crumbling but then we saw his eyes for the first time.

"Words can't describe how it felt but we're still numb."

Max, who is now in a stable but critical condition, has been unconscious since he was attacked outside Grays Working Men's Club in London Road at 12.20am on Saturday, April 26.

Evelyn has not been able to face going to work at B&Q in West Thurrock since the attack because it is where they are both employed and the memories are too painful.

She said: "We'd really like to thank family, friends and work colleagues for all their love and support.

"Max is on a long road to recovery and we just hope we get our son back."

Max's parents, grandparents, brother Luke, 23, and girlfriend Alice Reardon, 20, have kept a bedside vigil ever since.

Dad Nicholas, 47, said Max's response came after they had decided to play his favourite music from the dance film Step Up to him through his MP3 player.

Ian Evans, 20, and Daniel Revill, 21, both of Bridge Road, Grays, have been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

They will reappear at Basildon Crown Court on July 4.