Carlisle United announcer and football referee Colin Carter has thanked friends and fans for their support after he collapsed on a pitch.

Colin, 48, says he can't stop crying at the messages and is so humbled by the get well wishes.

He is recovering in Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary after having a coil fitted on his brain to stop bleeding.

The popular announcer was refereeing a six-a-side match on the 3g pitches at Harraby when he took ill and collapsed.

He was taken to The Cumberland Infirmary but later transferred to the RVI where he is recovering.

From his bed at the RVI Colin said: "I can't get over the support and love from all over the world - Australia, Canada, Spain and even Iraq. Who would've thought it.

"I'm so humbled by it all. I'm just a simple Harraby lad and I honestly can't stop crying at the messages.

"People have been so amazing and I just can't thank them enough. I'm just overwhelmed by it all.

"I’ve had one or two special people who have kept me on the straight and narrow put me in my place when it’s got tough. They are close people who have a special place in my heart."

Colin said: "Even the chairman of Carlisle United rang me after my brain operation. I'm not sure if I came across okay to him but I was over the moon he took the time out to call.

"My friends Kenny Brown and Scott Charters have kept my spirits high throughout keeping everybody informed and have been absolute stars

"There are thousands of thank you's and too many to mention.

"I would like to thank my family for all their support. I don’t know where I would be without them.

"There are lots of others who took time out of their lives to visit me and I'd like to thank the individuals who kept me alive at Harraby that horrible evening."

Colin also thanked football fans and those in the world of football who sent messages of support.

Finally, he said: "I'd like to thank the hospital staff at Carlisle and the amazing neurological department at the RVI who sorted me out.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart you are all truly amazing people."

After his operation he was moved to a high dependency unit because of an infection and blood pressure.

Colin is a familiar face at Brunton Park having been the match day announcer there for many years.

He also used to do match reports for CFM Radio.

He also referees local football matches and has a keen interest in cricket.