Big Jeff says he is ‘lucky to be alive’ in thank you message to medics treating him for burns in hospital

Legendary Bristol gig-goer Big Jeff has said he’s ‘lucky to be alive’ in a thank you message to ‘wonderful’ NHS staff treating him for severe burns in hospital.

Jeff Johns, better known as Big Jeff, was badly burnt while cooking in his Totterdown flat on June 6.

The 39-year-old painter, well known for attending numerous gigs across Bristol as well as his artwork, has been recovering at a specialist burns unit at the Morriston Hospital in Swansea.

Fans were relieved when he thanked them for their well-wishes on Twitter on July 1, adding: “I love you all. See you soon.”

And today (Tuesday, August 2), Jeff had a message for the caring medical staff who have been helping him on his road to recovery.

Tweeting Mary Anne Hobbs who presents on BBC Radio 6, he said: “Can you give the wonderful Drs and nurses in the burns unit a massive shout out.

“They have done wonders in aiding my recovery from 49. Degree burns. I’m so lucky to be alive.”

Although Jeff’s family and art manager Lee Dodds said they expected he would be in hospital for some time, Jeff left intensive care last week and is now recovering on the burns ward.

He’s now able to eat and has been receiving physio to assist with getting him back on his feet and mobile again.

Fans were delighted to see his update on Twitter this morning. Nath Brudenell tweeted: “So great to hear from you. Keep on going, incredible strength and character. Inspirational to many! You rule!”