FAMILY and friends of a former rugby league player who was found with “life-changing” injuries will be hiking three Gwent mountains to raise money to buy a specialist car to aid his recovery.

Scott Bessant was found in the early hours of the morning on Sunday August 13 last year, in Pentwyn Lane, Abersychan. He remains hospitalised.

Brother-in-law Neil Chere said he hopes providing Mr Bessant with the occasional change in scenery would aid his rehabilitation.

He said: “We want to be able to take him out of the hospital more often.

“And the only way we can do this is by getting a specialist car that can accommodate for Scott.

“The specialist car would allow us to wheel Scott into it from the back.”

“If Scott sees new surroundings it could help him more.”

And to help the appeal, family friend Amy Jones and others will be taking on the South Wales Three Peaks Trial this Saturday.

The 33-year-old from Talywain, said: “I was going on Facebook when I came across a memory post of Scott having completed the challenge last year. It was difficult but he managed to do it.

“Scott is a great guy and I had always wanted to help him.

“I then thought this would be a great way to raise money for the vehicle.”

The team will cover a total of 16-miles of difficult terrain during the challenge.

Ms Jones added: “I have been preparing for this for about nine weeks.

“The challenge will see us hike the Blorenge, Sugarloaf and Skirrid.

“It is going to be difficult but I know that we have to do it. We have to do it for Scott.”

Mr Chere is one of those who will be hiking with Mrs Jones and he urged people to donate to the fundraising page.

“We all want to help Scott in what ever way we can,” he said.

“We have raised quite a bit of money so far. It is currently at more than £1,000 so thanks to everyone who has helped.

If you would like to donate, visit the website bit.ly/2Kyv3ye