Schumacher 'recognising his family'

Formula One great Michael Schumacher has begun recognising his family as he continues to recover from a brain injury suffered in a skiing accident, according to reports.

Schumacher weeps at the sound of his wife's and children's voices, and communicates with his eyes though he cannot speak.

The racing icon was left in a six-month coma after a skiing accident just over a year ago.

However, doctors believe it will take Schumacher, 46, many years to complete a full recovery.

Some reports indicate Schumacher is not confined to bed and is able to sit up, though he is still incapable of independent movement.

He has had two brain operations and it is understood he is undergoing therapy to prevent muscle atrophy.