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Mayall breathing without support

A spokeswoman at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, Devon, said Mr Mayall, 39, was now breathing unaided.

A hospital spokesman said on Tuesday: "He is making good progress, which is expected to continue. He is showing signs of making a good recovery."

Mr Mayall's wife, Barbara, who has been with him since he was flown to hospital last Thursday evening, said she was feeling more optimistic now.

"Mrs Mayall would like to thank all Rik's fans for the flowers and letters of support. As soon as there is any more news she will let them know," the spokesman said.

Two of the comedian's Comic Strip colleagues, Peter Richardson and Adrian Edmondson, visited him in hospital on Saturday.

Mr Mayall, the star of TV series such as 'Bottom' and the 'New Statesman', was flown unconscious to hospital by police helicopter after the crash.

The accident happened when the comedian - who shot to fame with his appearances in the Young Ones and the Comic Strip - was using a quad-bike at his farm at East Allington, near Kingsbridge, Devon.

It is understood that Mr Mayall was trapped beneath the machine when it turned over.

His wife came out to see why the engine had stopped, and discovered him unconscious underneath the bike.

Mr Mayall bought the estate last year as a retreat for himself and his wife and three children.

Relevant Stories

Comedian Rik Mayall 'seriously ill' (11 Apr 98 | UK)

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