A football player is in hospital after a freak accident.

Workington Reds striker Charlie Bowman suffered back and head injuries whilst carrying out his work as a tree surgeon.

Bowman has not had many starts for the club, after an injury-ravaged start to the season, but is a very popular member of the squad both among team-mates, officials and supporters.

The club has said how concerned and upset it was to hear of his “very serious accident”

Club chairman Dave Bowdon said: “It would appear that during his work as a tree surgeon he was hit by a tree in a freak incident.

“He has suffered serious injuries to his vertebrae and has head injuries.

"He is currently having treatment in Leeds Infirmary.

“Charlie is a very popular player at our club and our best wishes go out to him for a very quick improvement. We will monitor the situation and keep all informed.”

Bowman is a former Kendal Town player and recently the Mintcakes put seven days notice in to Workington for his services but he declined, as he was enjoying his time with the Reds.