AN AUSTRALIAN mother’s emotional appeal for travel money to reach her son left in a coma after an attack in Alton raised more than 20,000 Australian dollars in just over 24 hours.

Her son Jake Perry was taken to Southampton General Hospital and placed in a medically-induced coma after suffering head injuries.

The 24-year-old Australian moved to Alton three years ago to be with his two-year-old daughter.

Posting on her GoFundMe page, Erika Perry detailed how her son had sustained “serious head injuries as a result of blunt force trauma to the left side of his head” and upon arrival at the hospital, doctors found a “massive haematoma” which left Jake on life support in a “critical condition.”

The target of the GoFundMe page was initially set at $14,000 to meet the costs of a flight to the UK.

Erika told of how she had to approach the Australian consulate for permission to travel – with a ban on overseas travel from Australia currently in place.

“Let me be by his side before it’s too late,” Erika said.

“While I am hoping for the best outcome, his status is critical and time is of the essence. If I am able to see him anytime soon, it will only be with your help.

“I am a single mother without the means to do this and desperately need your help.

“Please let me get to my son before it’s too late.”

Erika’s emotional pleas – both on the page and through a short YouTube video – garnered the support of more than 600 donors, with the page receiving 1,900 shares across social media.

Posting on her page after the target was reached, Erika thanked contributors for their “incredible response,” and confirmed she had managed to obtain approval from the Australian Department of Home Affairs and secured a flight for yesterday morning at 7am (Australian time).

She said: “All of this has happened so quickly that I could never have imagined it would be possible, but thanks to all those very special people who have helped me through the last 48 hours, it does look like I will be able to see my son.”

Erika confirmed any further donations received would be used to assist his recovery.

To donate, see gf.me/u/yizkmu

The assault took place just after midnight last Sunday (July 26) on High Street, Alton, close to the town’s Vodafone store.

A 25-year-old man and a 20- year-old man, both from Alton, were arrested on Monday on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent.

They were released on conditional bail while investigations continue.

A third man, aged 26, was arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of causing GBH with intent, and released on bail on Wednesday afternoon.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call officers on 101, quoting Operation Infringe or reference number 44200279176.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously with information on 0800 555 111.