A CANVEY teen has lost part of his leg after contracting meningitis.

It had been thought that Mitchell Etherton, 14, had got food poisoning after he became violently ill after eating fried chicken.

However, when a rash started to develop he was taken to hospital and diagnosed with meningococcal septicaemia, a form of meningitis, and he was placed into an induced coma.

He lost part of his left leg and thumb to the infection last year.

A year on and the youngster is now walking with the help of a prosthetic and his family want to thank the charities which supported him.

His stepdad is taking part in the London to Brighton bike ride to raise money for them.

His brother, Taris, 19, posted on social media: “A year has just passed since my brother Mitchell fell ill with meningitis.

“It is incredible how far he has come in such a short amount of time and we are massively grateful for every individuals efforts with him - in particular the team who saved his life in the intensive care ward at St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington.

“Our family was supported endlessly by St Mary’s charity (Cosmic) who gave us accommodation local to the hospital and also gave us a financial cushion to allow for mum and dad’s time off work so they could be with Mitchell whilst he was ill.

“Our stepdad Rob Sigston is raising money for Cosmic to help other families affected by meningitis.

“He is doing a London to Brighton bike ride in aid of this cause.

“Any donation is hugely appreciated and we would love to hit our target.”

His mother Sharon Sigston told the Sun: “Despite him losing his limbs, we’re just glad he’s with us today – considering we were told he wouldn’t survive the first 24 hours.

“He is a very sporty boy and loved football, and his main concern was that he wouldn’t be able to play again – but he took it all in his stride.”

With the help of the prosthetic he has been able to play football once again.

The family is hoping to raise £1,500 for Cosmic, which supports families of children at intensive care at the London-based hospital.

The ride will start on September 16.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/sharon-sigston