Football commentator presents life-saving kit to Horsham club after heart attack scare

Bystanders rushed to Peter Brackley’s aid when he collapsed at an evening hosted by Brighton and Hove Albion’s charity Albion in the Community (AITC) on February 17.

A defibrillator from a nearby row of shops helped to save Mr Brackley’s life. He was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, and has since made a full recovery.

And the broadcaster returned to the Holbrook Club to present the defibrillator, which was funded by AITC via the proceeds from the charity event.

He said: “It is, of course, only through the expertise and dedication of the extraordinary people who rushed to my aid that I am still alive to tell the tale.

“I have virtually no recollection of my episode - which perhaps is just as well - but am totally aware now of how their prompt and so well-drilled response kept me on the planet.

“As with the hospital team who took over later that night at the Royal Sussex, I know they don’t ask for thanks, their reward is knowing what they have achieved in helping save lives.

“But I certainly owe them a huge debt of gratitude for what they did to rescue me in my hour of need.  

“They all do amazing work, and long may it continue.”

Lifelong Albion fan Mr Brackley was due to compere the charity event when he fell ill.

He was treated by members of the audience and a volunteer from Horsham Community First Responders before being taken to hospital.

Local supporters club North West Sussex Seagulls decided to make the donation, with help from AITC.

Mr Brackley is best known for football commentary during the 1990s.

In 2009, he was ranked at number 42 on the Daily Mail’s list of Britain’s favourite sports commentators of all time.

He was previously the voice of Channel 4’s Italian football coverage, and provided commentary for the popular video game series Pro Evolution Soccer.

His illustrious career has also included work with the BBC, ITV and Sky.

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