By Martin Morgan

Last updated 12:53, Wednesday, 08 October 2008

Howard Hill has delivered the news that Whitehaven fans wanted to hear after beating his life-threatening illness: I want to play on.

Graham Hill

The key back-rower was taken seriously ill last month after picking up a rare skin bug that led to double pneumonia and septicaemia blood poisoning.

He spent a fortnight in the West Cumberland Hospital, including a week under heavy sedation in Intensive Care, when he breathed with the help of a ventilator.

The 33-year-old shed two stones from his 16.7st frame, but now home with his family, he revealed his hope, in time, to return to action.

“I expected to get out of hospital and feel great after a week, but it’s a slow process,” he said. “I can’t wait to get off the sofa, but I have to be patient.

“I’ve just got to take it as it comes. I’d say it will be at least three or four months before I can do anything.

“The doctors seem to feel there will be no problem and I will recover fully.

“I miss my training. I used to do it every night, and I’ve gone from that to watching telly on the sofa every day. I’m just trying to get better. If I walk around the block I’m tired for the day.”

The veteran signed a new two-year deal at Haven, following a great season, shortly before being struck down, and he is still suffering back pain, believed to be a remnant of his illness.

But he has regained half-a-stone and has been buoyed by the support of all at Haven, including coach Ged Stokes.

“Ged was phoning every day when I was in hospital. Not that I knew.” Hill added. “I’ve had a lot of support, and the cards I’ve had have been unbelievable. My family’s great and my wife’s been beside me all the time.”