FORMER Wanderers defender Nicky Hunt was in hospital last night after sustaining a serious injury during Darlington’s game against Boston United.

The match was abandoned after the defender was given lengthy treatment for an injury suffered in the 87th minute of the National League North match.

Hunt, aged 37, was treated on the pitch for more than an hour before being taken by ambulance to hospital.

A statement from Darlington issued last night read: “We would like to update you on the serious injury to Darlington defender Nicky Hunt.

“Following an incident on the field near the end of the match, Nicky was left unconscious and needed lengthy treatment for a head injury from the physios of both clubs and medical staff.

“He was taken to hospital at 11pm by ambulance.

“We would like to thank the excellent care and prompt action which was taken by the physios of both clubs, and the Darlington FC safety staff and stewards.

“Our thoughts are with Nicky and his family.

“We will update everybody when we can.”

A report from The Bolton News' sister paper, The Northern Echo added: "The game was abandoned by referee Adam Williamson with the score at 2-0, and the National League will have to decide whether the result stands or a replay is required.

"But the scoreline was of secondary importance to those involved at Blackwell Meadows.

"The collision, which also saw Tony McMahon close by, saw Hunt fall backwards onto the turf and he did not move for over an hour while an ambulance was called, with players from both sides shocked by the incident.

"Medics, club staff and players gathered round the stricken Hunt, who joined Quakers in the summer from Crewe Alexandra.

"He was taken from Blackwell on a stretcher at 11pm, around 90 minutes after his fall. It is unclear exactly what the injury was, but it is understood to be a spinal issue."

Hunt, from Daisy Hill, started his professional career with Wanderers and played 161 games for the club, making his senior debut in the FA Cup against Sunderland in 2003.

He has enjoyed a long career, which has taken in spells with the likes of Bristol City, Preston, Notts County, Accrington and Crewe and signed for Darlington this summer.

Former team-mate, Kevin Davies tweeted last night: "Hoping for some positive news regarding my good mate Nicky Hunt in the morning."