A local charity has spoken out about the "horrific injuries" inflicted on a young Barbados national as they pull together to support his family.

The Barbados and Friends Association is a Reading charity and community group that brings together people who have come from the Caribbean island.

Richard Weekes, the Chair of Barbados and Friends Association in Reading (BAFA) has confirmed that they are currently supporting the family of Tharel Thompson, a 28-year-old who was brutally stabbed in the head while on a night out at the Walkabout club on February 11.

Mr Weekes said: "The Barbados national who is on holiday in the UK, was viciously attacked in a Reading nightclub and because of his horrific injuries he is currently hospitalised undergoing emergency treatment.

"On reaching the UK his family have now been informed that apparently he does not qualify for free NHS emergency treatment due to being a non-national.

"We understand that the medical costs are now running at circa £150K."

A GoFundMe was launched following the attack, which has since raised £21,954, with an original target of just £15,000.

With costs rising, Mr Weekes said: "We have been reaching out to the local community to help by encouraging all to donate to a GoFundMe page that has been set up by Tharel’s family, to help with his hospital and accommodation bills."

Ms Betty Lewis, of the Barbados High Commission UK is in continuous liaison with Mrs Yvonne Thompson (Mother of Tharel), and has been keeping BAFA and the National Council of Barbadian Associations UK (NCBA) updated on Tharel’s progress and immediate needs.

Around the country, people are planning fundraising events behind the scenes to continue fundraising, with events set to take place locally.

Details on events will be published at bafa-reading.org.uk.

Mr Weekes concluded: "Thank you all for your Prayers, donations and community togetherness. Mrs Thompson and Family are grateful for all that is being done for her son."

Two men have since been charged with attempted murder.