A FATHER of five who was attacked after a night out with friends has been given an award just weeks after returning to work.

Chris Naya, from Colchester Road, Manningtree, was left fighting for his life in hospital after being knocked unconscious and left for dead.

He had been out with colleagues on December 22 for a Christmas party and was walking through Central Park to meet a friend when he was struck on the head.

"It wasn't a punch because of the injury - it was a hard object like a bar or a baseball bat," the 36-year-old said.

"My friend found me and called an ambulance and they put me in a coma.

"I had four fractures to my skull.

"They had to cut away skull on the right hand side where I fell on the ground to release the swelling - I have a metal plate now.

"The left side where I was hit I have lost all hearing on."

Chris was in a coma at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge until January 10.

He was then allowed home but has spent months recovering.

He added: "I'm a walking miracle apparently - I'm walking and talking and they said it could be 12 to 18 months for that, if at all.

"The doctors said I should count myself lucky."

Chris, a mortgage adviser with Just Mortgages, based at Haart estate agents in Clacton, is now on a staged return to work.

But he has already been presented with a trophy at a glittering awards ceremony celebrating the very best staff and offices throughout Haart’s parent company Spicerhaart.

Chris was named Top Newcomer for 2016, for his work before the attack.

He said: “I’m proud, as well as surprised and humbled, that I managed to get this award after such a short time in my career, which shows that anyone can do it if you set your mind to it.

“Obviously I’ve had my setbacks since then but knowing my family are there to support me, as well as my peers, I’ve been able to come through the other side, which has made me realise that every moment counts.

"Being recognised for this award has simply given me more motivation and determination to continue the good work.”

No-one has been arrested for the attack.