North Yorkshire cricketer 15 year-old Brendan Jackson has thanked air crews who came to his rescue after disaster struck during a game leaving him in excruciating pain and throwing his future into doubt.

Brendan, from Masham, sustained severe injuries to his leg and ankle while playing at Walton Park Cricket club, near Wetherby. Yorkshire Air Ambulance were called out to help and now the dramatic incident has been featured on the Helicopter ER TV series.

After the alarm was raised a YAA helicopter was sent from Topcliffe Air Base in Thirsk, to reach the cricket pitch in minutes.

YAA paramedics found Brendan on the pitch in excruciating pain, supported by his mother, Diane Sharp, and a doctor from the opposing team.

A spokesperson for YAA said: "Brendan's injury was severe; not only had he dislocated his ankle, but he had also fractured both bones in his lower leg. This raised grave concerns about potential complications due to reduced blood supply and potential nerve damage.

"To alleviate Brendan's excruciating pain, Paramedics administered gas and air and Ketamine was carefully administered, taking into account Brendan's age and weight as he was still considered a child at 15 years old.

"Ketamine relieved Brendan's pain but also had a dissociative effect, helping him cope with the traumatic experience. YAA paramedics expertly realigned his leg using a mouldable vacuum splint, ensuring stability.”

Brendan said: "I remember my first reaction was a mix of shock and fear. I just looked down, and all I could think was, 'what has happened, and will I ever be able to play cricket again?' It was a terrifying moment for me.

"When the Yorkshire Air Ambulance team showed up, it was a massive relief. They were like superheroes, and I'm so grateful for how they were able to take away some of my pain. I can't thank them enough for being there."

Brendan was taken to Harrogate District Hospital via land ambulance where he underwent surgery to pin and plate his ankle.

“It was a very traumatic day." said Diane, Brendan's mother. "Once I heard him shouting in agony, I knew I had to rush over.

"The worst thing was hearing him scream when they moved his ankle into the splint. It was heartbreaking as a parent to witness him in so much pain. But when I heard the air ambulance coming, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief. I knew they would be able to help relieve."

Brendan says despite the challenges he is going from strength to strength since the injury in April and is determined to return to competitive sports in the near future.