Non-league club Billericay Town have announced that Jack Evans has suffered serious injuries following an “unprovoked attack” on New Year’s Eve. The Isthmian League Premier Division club has promoted a GoFundMe appeal to raise funds to help with medical costs as the former Chatham Town captain requires private care.
As a result of the alleged New Year’s Eve incident, Mr. Evans will not be able to resume work and is expected to be absent from full-time employment for an extended period of time. He has missed Billericay’s last two games against Hashtag United and Burgess Hill Town after the attack. The fundraiser has now raised £2,705 towards a target of £6,000 to support the 32-year-old’s recovery.
A statement from the club confirmed the incident: “Billericay Town FC can confirm that our player Jack Evans was seriously injured in an unprovoked attack on New Year’s Eve.”
“Jack is undergoing treatment and has the full support of everyone at the football club. Should supporters wish to help, a GoFundMe page has been set up to cover personal medical costs associated with his recovery. We wish Jack strength and a full recovery.”
In the GoFundMe description, organizers explain: “This page was set up to support Jack, who was the victim of an unprovoked attack on New Year’s Eve. As a result, he sustained severe facial injuries requiring private medical treatment.”
“Unfortunately, given the extent of Jack’s injuries, he has not been able to return to work since the incident and recent news suggests that he is unlikely to be able to return for some time.
“In addition to significant medical costs, this also means significant loss of income.
“We are appealing for people who are able to help cover Jack’s treatment costs and help him get through this difficult time and, if possible, help with any loss of income.
“Jack was always reluctant to set up a GoFundMe page, but given the impact this situation has on everyone, we feel it’s important to step in and support him, just as he would for anyone else.
“Thank you very much for your support and donations. We really appreciate it.”
Evans made his EFL debut for League Two side Gillingham in 2011 at the age of 18. Since then he has enjoyed spells at clubs such as Tamworth Sutton United and Maidstone United, before enjoying a rewarding stint at Chatham.
The midfielder signed for Billericay over the summer and made 23 appearances, finding the back of the net three times.
One of his shots became an internet sensation after he scored a stunning long-range volley that drew comparisons to Newcastle United legend Papis Cissé’s famous goal against Chelsea.
