Clarke Carlisle: Mental health charity Mind sends support after ambassador is hit by lorry

The footballer is said to be in a “stable” condition, following the accident

Carlisle has worked as a TV pundit since his retirement (Getty Images)

Mind has issued a statement after Clarke Carlisle was hit by a lorry on Monday.

The former Leeds, Burnley and Queens Park Rangers defender is an ambassador for the mental health charity.

"We are all shocked to hear about Clarke’s accident and wish him a speedy recovery," commented Mind chief executive Paul Farmer. "Our thoughts are with him, his wife Gemma, three children and his entire family at what must be a very difficult time, especially just before Christmas.

"Clarke is a wonderful Ambassador for Mind, speaking eloquently about his own experiences of mental health problems, encouraging more people to speak out and seek help. It is a privilege to have his support for our work, and we hope to see him back to full health in the near future."

Carlisle, 35, was hit by a lorry on the A64 near the village of Bishopthorpe not far from York on Monday morning. While his condition has originally described as "critical", it was soon confirmed that his injuries are "not life-threatening".

His wife said his condition was "stable" yesterday and thanked the public for their support.

The reason for the accident remains unclear, however a police spokeswoman confirmed they were "pursuing all avenues".

In addition to his sporting career, Carlisle has presented two BBC documentaries, one on racism in football, Is Football Racist?, and another on mental health in football, entitled Football's Suicide Secret.