The collapse of an international soccer star on the pitch during a Euro 2020 match has inspired fans to raise almost £1,000 for a defibrillator.

The fundraiser took place at the weekend, involving a football match between the police affiliated N.S. Dons football team and FC BHF.

Its aim was to fund a fund a defibrillator at the Harrowby United football ground on Dickens Road, Grantham, and also support the British Heart Foundation.

The N.S.K Dons Football Team posted in their appeal: "In the UK there are over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests every year where emergency medical services attempt to resuscitate the victim. However, the survival rate is low – just 1 in 10 people in the UK survive.

"Recently, the whole world was shocked and saddened by the events surrounding professional footballer Christian Eriksen who suffered a cardiac arrest during the Euro 2020 championships. Fortunately though he was saved by quick and effective CPR and defibrillation.

"Two football teams, N.S.K Dons and FC BHF will take part in a fundraising football match aimed at raising a target of £1000 to assist local Grantham based football club Harrowby United purchase their own defibrillator, a life saving device which will not only benefit the club, but also the wider community and also raise the profile of CPR, particularly at sporting events."

The appeal continued: "N.S.K Dons are a police affiliated fundraising football team comprising of a number of serving police officers, staff, associates and friends, many of whom have first hand experience of the benefits of CPR when combined with defibrillation.

"FC BHF was formed in 2017 in memory of Peter Burr who sadly died following a cardiac arrest. The team was set up by his son Gary Burr as he wanted to do something they were both passionate about whilst raising awareness about heart related issues and fundraising for the British Heart Foundation.

"In 2019, Neil Smith a football fanatic and friend of players from N.S.K Dons saved his 11 month old son Tommy's life using CPR and a defibrillator was used to revive him. Sadly, Neil passed away earlier this year, but his memory lives on and we dedicate this match to both Neil and Tommy who will be our special guest and mascot on the day."

The appeal added: "We hope you will support our event with a donation and invite you to attend the match on Sunday 19th September 21, 4pm at Harrowby United FC.

"Any additional funds raised over the target amount will be donated to The British Heart Foundation."

To donate, click on the link here.