THE condition of a four-year-old boy who was hit by a taxi in Middlesbrough last week is improving.

Nathaniel Verrill was fighting for his life on a life-support machine in Newcastle after he was hit by the taxi near his home in Pallister Park, Middlesbrough, at about 5.20pm on Sunday, March 8.

Despite multiple injuries including a fractured skull, bleeds in the brain, a hole in the stomach, broken rib and spleen damage, the little boy's condition, while still critical, is now stable and he has been moved to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

Nathaniel was hit by a Skoda Octavia taxi which was travelling along Cotswold Avenue.

Police wanted to speak to the owner of an ice cream van which was on the street at the time who they thought may have had key information.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: "The owner of the ice cream van on the scene of the incident contacted the police last week and we are grateful for his help.

"Inquiries into the circumstances around the collision are still on-going."

Nathaniel's mother, Katrina Verrill, thanked friends and family as well as staff at the hospital.

She said: "He's totally off life support, and awake. He's whimpering but staff say he's done so well. Despite the injuries he's already said some words, actions, recognised objects and teddies.

"I'm so proud of him for pulling through and he's still fighting."

She said he was expected to have some brain damage but she had been told Nathaniel will survive.

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to police is asked to contact PC Amanda Stokes on 101.

Friends of the family are also fundraising to raise money to help with Nathaniel's recovery. If you would like to donate visit www.gofundme.com/ochw54