14 January 2024 , 14:21
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Bolton have confirmed that Iain Purslow, the fan who suffered a suspected cardiac arrest during the first half of Saturday's game against Cheltenham, has sadly passed away.
Purslow, 71, received CPR treatment from medical staff and paramedics at the Toughsheet Community Stadium after the match was halted by referee Sunny Gill in the 29th minute.
As a result of the medical emergency, the game was abandoned as Purslow was taken to hospital for further treatment. However, Bolton have confirmed on Sunday afternoon that Purslow has died.
A club statement read: "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.
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"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.
"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.
(PA)"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."
Cheltenham, meanwhile, also released a statement, which read: "Cheltenham Town Football Club are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the supporter who was taken ill at yesterday's away fixture against Bolton Wanderers.
(PA)"Iain Purslow, 71, was a lifelong Whites fan and was at the game with his son Stuart, when he suffered a suspected cardiac arrest during the first half.
"Iain was given CPR treatment by medical staff and paramedics before being taken to hospital where he sadly lost his life.
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"The thoughts of everyone at Cheltenham Town are with Iain's family, loved ones and the Bolton Wanderers community at this deeply sad time.
"The club would also like to thank the travelling supporters at the game for their cooperation and understanding following the distressing incident.
"If you were in attendance at the Toughsheet Community Stadium and were affected by the tragic events, you can contact MIND for support on 0300 123 3393."