Footballers put Hearts into aiding newlyweds

The couple were run over by a speeding motorist when on holiday in July and yesterday a friendly game at Bonnyrigg Rose's ground between Hearts Legends and Mr Tam's local teams Real Maroon and Duddingston Athletic helped raise the money for medical costs.

Today, Mr Tams said he was grateful for the "overwhelming support" shown by his team-mates, friends and family as he told the Evening News that he and his new wife would take a second honeymoon as soon as they were feeling better.

The 30-year-old teacher, from Bonnyrigg, said: "At some point we're going to look to take another honeymoon. After what Nicola has been through, and the support she has given me, I think she deserves it.

"I was absolutely overwhelmed when I heard how she'd stayed by my side. I think it showed the strength of our marriage before it has hardly started."

Yesterday's game ended in a 16-0 result to the Hearts Legends, who included John Robertson, Jose Quitongo and Alan Lawrence, but the amateur players said the main point had been to raise money for their team-mate.

Organiser and Real Maroon player Jamie Borthwick said: "You can joke that it was a bit of a washout for us, but the day went fantastically and all the players were just thrilled to play against some of their idols.

"The audience were there to see the Hearts Legends anyway and they were delighted to see the lads land so many goals. Around 850 people paid to watch the game and lots more money was made in the auction, so we're pleased to have raised so much for medical treatment for John and Nicola."

He added: "Each player in the match had to raise at least 50 for the cause, and most raised 100 on average, so you can see how much we have made."

Mr Tams, who suffered a broken leg, pelvis and ribs after being run down in Italy in July, said: "We are so happy with the efforts everyone has made. Nicola and I are recovering now, but it is a slow progress and it's difficult to walk with crutches.

"Everyday life can be tough, but we have so much support from doctors and friends. There's still a long way to go but I hope I'll be playing again with Real Maroon and Duddingston Athletic as soon as I can.

"Nicola and I are both very positive people and we're looking forward to normality."

The couple were hit by a car in Sorrento as they made their way back to their hotel in the early hours of July 9.

The craft and design teacher, who works at Dalkeith High School, suffered serious head injuries and was put into an induced coma in Naples. After spending six weeks in hospital, he was finally given the all-clear to return and he and his 31-year-old wife, who suffered four broken ribs in the accident, are now settling back into Bonnyrigg. Mr Tams, however, still has to use a walking stick and has reduced sight in his right eye.

The cash was raised through entry to the charity game, a tombola and an auction.