Celebrated local entertainer Buzby Allen is recovering in hospital after suffering a major stroke and brain seizure.

Mr Allen, who has been a fixture at Potters Resort, in Hopton, for more than 20 years, fell ill on May 5.

A CT scan revealed a large bleed in his brain that was too deep to operate on and he remains in hospital with the right side of his body paralysed, and unable to talk or eat.

 

He is able to communicate with fiancée Lizzy by answering her questions with a squeeze of his left hand, to say 'yes'.

Mr Allen, who lives in Hopton, is a popular figure on the east coast, where he has entertained thousands of holidaymakers over the years.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Buzby Allen of Potters Leisure Resort in Hopton taken in 2013Buzby Allen of Potters Leisure Resort in Hopton taken in 2013 (Image: Newsquest)

In 2014, he won a national Tourism Superstar award, in recognition of his contribution to the industry.

His family is now hoping to raise money for the ward at the James Paget Hospital where he is being treated.

In a statement, Lizzy said: "I asked him recently to squeeze my hand if he wanted to help the nurses that care for him in the stroke ward at the Hospital.

"Squeezing my hand is his easiest way to communicate with a yes. 

"This he did instantly and I knew, eventually, he would make it his goal to give something back to this department and the wonderful staff who are sadly lacking in resources.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Buzby Allen during his campaign to win the 2014 Tourism Superstar Award, which he didBuzby Allen during his campaign to win the 2014 Tourism Superstar Award, which he did (Image: Newsquest)

"The ward often runs their own fundraising events to buy equipment they need and although this seems crazy to many, and after long 12-hour shifts the nurses would agree, they are left with no choice.

READ MORE: Potters legend Buzby really is one of a kind

"They do an incredible job and each one has taken Buzby into their hearts and been so kind and thoughtful to both him and us."

The fundraiser, Buzby’s Stroke of Genius, has already secured £4,100.

To donate see the website link: https://gofund.me/c96e491c

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Potters staff members, Buzby Allen second from right, after their skydive. Potters staff members, Buzby Allen second from right, after their skydive. (Image: Potters)

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Musical Picnic at Elsing Hall. Pictured: James Medler and Buzby Allen Musical Picnic at Elsing Hall. Pictured: James Medler and Buzby Allen (Image: Jamie Honeywood)