Lifelong football fan dies during match after collapsing in the stands

Medical staff rushed to Iain’s aid after he collapsed in the stands (Picture: PA)

A popular and well-known Bolton Wanderers fan has died after collapsing in the stands during a match.

Iain Purslow, 71, was watching his team play against Cheltenham Town on Saturday when he collapsed, causing the match to be abandoned.

He was given CPR for more than 20 minutes before emergency services arrived and rushed him to hospital, but sadly he later died.

A statement from Bolton Wanderers said: ‘Bolton Wanderers are deeply saddened to confirm that the supporter taken ill at yesterday afternoon’s home fixture against Cheltenham Town has passed away.

‘Lifelong fan Iain Purslow suffered a suspected cardiac arrest during the first half of the game.

‘The 71-year-old was given sustained CPR treatment by medical staff and paramedics at the stadium before being taken to hospital where he tragically died.

The match was called off shortly after Iain’s collapse (Picture: Paul Currie/Shutterstock)

‘Iain, who lives in Oldham, was at the game supporting the Whites with his son Stuart.

‘Club Chaplain Phil Mason remained with family members later in the day and the club will continue to offer the family all the support and care they can – as well as looking to offer support to anyone else impacted by this distressing incident.

‘The thoughts of everyone connected to Bolton Wanderers are with Iain’s family and loved ones at this incredibly sad time.

‘Iain will be remembered at Wanderers’ FA Cup third-round replay at home to Luton Town on Tuesday night.

‘Saturday’s League One fixture against Cheltenham Town – which will be re-arranged in due course – was called off shortly after 4pm in agreement with referee Sunny Singh Gill and both teams around half an hour after the players were taken off the pitch when the incident first occurred.

‘Wanderers would also like to thank all those supporters and medical staff who provided assistance, and for the cooperation and understanding of everyone inside the stadium – including our visitors from Cheltenham – on Saturday.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

For more stories like this, check our news page.

from News – Metro https://ift.tt/RSwL0M1