A BBC television show is set to transform the life of a football fan left brain damaged after an attack in Southend.

The DIY SOS team has moved in to renovate the Cambridge home of Simon Dobbin who suffered severe brain damage after being set on by football hooligans.

Cambridge United supporter Mr Dobbin, from Mildenhall in Suffolk, was attacked after a match in Southend, two years ago.

Nick Knowles and his team are hoping to transform the home of Simon and his family after he was left unable to walk or talk.

They were joined by local tradesmen, suppliers and the community to specially adapt the 45-year-old’s home.

Simon lives with his wife and full-time carer Nicole, 46, and their 18-year-old daughter Emily.

But the house is inhibiting Simon’s rehabilitation, placing a continued strain on the family’s life.

The renovation, which will end on November 23, will include a downstairs extension, a bedroom, physio space, wet room and social space for Simon.

The family have moved out of the home while the work is going on. Nicole said: “We will be out of the house for nine days. We just know they are going to make more room for Simon. They’re putting in a wet room and a downstairs bedroom.

“Our living room is open plan, with a dining room and living area together. Simon has to sleep in the living area with a curtain up.

“Our bathroom is upstairs so Simon has to bath using a bowl.

“Simon is doing well but there has been no more improvement.This is something positive to come out of something negative and we’re really grateful to the DIY SOS team.”