The family of a passionate football supporter, who tragically passed away from a cardiac arrest, has raised enough money to fund four new defibrillators.

Chris Gill died aged just 56 after suffering the episode on a bus journey, with experts suggesting he may have been saved if lifesaving equipment was available nearby. His wife Sharon and son Harry wanted to raise awareness of this and set-up a GoFundMe page that raised over £4700 in memory of the Wolverhampton Wanderers fan and keen non-league coach and follower.

The reaction from friends and family was overwhelming and meant they could fund not one, but four defibrillators, with the first presented to AFC Wulfrunians before its game with Atherstone Town last weekend. “Harry and I feel that football was in Chris’ blood whether he was supporting his beloved gold and black or adding his backing to the non-league game with his coaching,” explained Sharon.

“We have been told that his life may have been saved if a defibrillator was available and we don’t want tragic events like we’ve gone through to happen to others. Initially, the aim was to raise £1000 but we’ve more than quadrupled that.

“The level of support shows you exactly how much people loved and cared for Chris, who was a big personality in ‘kids’ football.” She continued: “It will be fitting having the defib available to the public and knowing it may just save someone’s life is great.

“It gives us some comfort after this tragic event that has changed our lives forever.” Two other defibrillators have been donated to Chris’ best friend’s workplace in the Black Country and at Darlaston Town, where current manager Dean Gill is a family relative.

The AFC Wulfrunians’ machine will be installed in a cabinet outside the ground so that the community can access it when required and this include a plaque in his memory. It is hoped that it will be unveiled by the local MP Warinder Juss on a date to be agreed during the close season.

Danny Butler, Commercial Director at AFC Wulfrunians, concluded: “We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Sharon and Harry for their generosity in donating such a vital piece of equipment in memory of Chris, who was a massive football man.

“We have seen cardiac arrests happen on football pitches and in the stands, so this donation could well save a life in the future.”