A MUSICIAN who suffered a massive stroke a year ago is now back playing instruments courtesy of "amazing treatment" he received at Wrexham Maelor Hospital.

John Rigby, from West Yorkshire, was staying at his static caravan in Llangollen when he suffered the stroke - which initially left him without the use of his left hand and arm.

He was also left with slurred speech - but just a year on, the former professional musician is back playing the instruments he loves.

John has expressed his "deepest gratitude" to the Wrexham Maelor Hospital staff who treated him.

He said: "The ambulance crew were quickly on the scene and were calm and professional and made me feel I had been rescued and was safe, and they also reassured my wife.

The Leader:

John Rigby 'Eclections' album cover

"Once at Wrexham Maelor Hospital, treatment started immediately, the consultant and his team were optimistic and reassuring and having been thrombolysed, feeling gradually began to return to my hand and arm.

"The nurses were patient, attentive, cheerful and calming and helped me through some difficult times during my stay in hospital."

John added: "The surgeon and his team who carried out a carotid endarectomy inspired confidence and were friendly and put me at ease.

"The physios and occupational therapists were patient and instilled a sense of optimism. The hospital referred me to the Stroke Association who have helped a great deal over the last year. "

John is now back playing the guitar, mandolin,banjo, harmonica, Jaws harp, didgeridoo, percussion and even vocals.

"I cannot express the depth of my gratitude to everyone who has helped me over the last 12 months," he added.

John has an album out titled Eclections, available on all digital platforms and CD, which is raising money for both the Stroke Association and Cancer Research UK - as his wife was once a cancer patient.

The Leader: John Rigby and wife Maggie. John Rigby and wife Maggie.