Nothing was going to keep Alex Lewis away from the community fundraiser held in is honour on Saturday.

Just two days after his remaining limb was amputated, the brave dad came from his hospital bed to thank everyone in person at the fete organised by Stockbridge Football Club.

Few spectators remained umoved when three-year-old Sam spotted his father, who he calls his Power Ranger, and shouted “Daddy!” from the crowd as Alex took to the stage.

Hundreds of people descended on Stockbridge to show their support for the 34-year-old dad who became an amputee when a simple cold turned into a flesh-eating bug.

Alex, who was plugged into a power supply to drain fluids from his recovering body, clapped with his left stump and heavily bandaged right arm to show his appreciation for the backing given to Al Lewis Trust.

He said: “This is just incredible. It means so much to me after what I’ve gone through. Without your support I don’t think I’d be here right now so thank you.”

Alex also paid tribute to his partner.

He said: “Out of this whole seven-and-a-half month struggle there is one person that has got me through the lot, through the days I have been up and the days I have been really down. She’s kept me through it. Lucy Townsend without your love and support I couldn’t be here today. Thank you darling, I love you.”

A spectacular fireworks display lit up the sky before band Break Cover took to the stage ahead of the surprise last song Nobody Does It Better, chosen by Aex himself.

Sheriden Sleap, who organised the event with a team of volunteers, said: “We are still counting up how much was raised but there was more than £1,000 in the buckets in notes. It was a truly excellent day. We were all blown away, amazed and humbled that Alex made it.”