Wilkinson’s lift for injured Leeds star

RUGBY UNION: Leeds Carnegie centre James Tincknell has revealed England star Jonny Wilkinson was among his many well-wishers during a continuing recovery from a life-threatening car crash.

By The Newsroom

Published 27th May 2011, 11:56 BST

Tincknell, 22, was honoured by the Rugby Players’ Association when he received the Blyth Spirit Award in London.

The award is a special presentation from RPA members for outstanding courage in the face of adversity.

Tincknell was taken to hospital by air ambulance and spent three weeks in a drug-induced coma following the accident, which happened three months ago.

“I can’t remember anything of the accident,” he said.

“I can’t thank everyone enough – I really can’t believe how much everyone cared. I am not sure why I’m getting the award, I think I should be giving it to everyone else for looking after me.

“Jonny Wilkinson sent me a letter. I couldn’t believe it – it was so kind of him. He was my idol growing up, so it meant so much.”