THE wife of former Saints player Scott Gibbs is in a critical condition after being hit by a motorcycle in Italy.

Kate Weaver-Gibbs, 32, suffered multiple head and spinal fractures from the incident last Friday while the couple walked near their home in Verona.

Mr Gibbs was not injured.

A family statement has said the beauty and travel writer is in a critical but stable condition.

It is understood she is being treated in Borgo Trento Hospital in Verona after being hit on a pedestrian crossing.

A statement issued on behalf of the Gibbs family said she was surrounded by her immediate family.

"Scott has expressed his gratitude for the immense support Kate and the family have received from the hospital and from friends across the globe," it said.

The cross-code international made 48 appearances for Saints in the 1990s and was part of the 1996 double winning team, playing at centre in the Challenge Cup final win over Bradford at Wembley.

He played rugby league for Wales and Great Britain, and union for Wales and the Lions.