A VETERAN footballer suffered a double cardiac arrest near the pitch.

Keith Hackett, 53, who plays full-back for Hullbridge Sports, was playing in a home game against Tag United, when he was taken ill and substituted in the first half.

During half-time at Hullbridge Sports and Social Club, Hullbridge, his condition deteriorated and he suffered a cardiac arrest. Paramedics managed to save him and called the air ambulance.

Thematch was abandoned after 80 minutes because the air ambulance had to land on the pitch.

The player suffered a second cardiac arrest while being rushed to Basildon Hospital by ambulance, where he underwent emergency surgery. Team manager Patrick Hayes said: “It came out of the blue. He was fit as a flea before.

“He was OK, then he came off and complained of chest pain.

The paramedics were called and he had a cardiac arrest while they were treating him.

“They shocked him and got him back, but he had another arrest on the way to the hospital.

“You couldn’t fault the medics.

They were first class and saved his life.”

Mr Hacket lives in Dovercourt after moving from Rayleigh.

He is said to be recovering well after having two stents – mesh tubes used to relieve blockages – placed into valves in his heart.

League secretary Tony Hoskins said: “We were shocked to hear what happened and everyone involved with the league wishes Keith a speedy recovery.”