DOZENS of golfers have rallied to support a Hampshire businessman struck down by potentially fatal virus.

More than 100 took part in a tournament to raise money for Heath Bland at Brockenhurst Manor Golf Club on Saturday.

As previously reported, the 48-year-old brother of well-known pro golfer Richard Bland was taken to Southampton General Hospital with chest pains on December 9.

The Totton builder thought he had a cold but his condition deteriorated and his heart stopped for few seconds on December 10.

He was transferred to Royal Brompton Hospital in London, the largest specialist heart and lung medical centre in the country, where he is recovering.

As it is likely that the former Hardley School student will be off work for several months, his friends organised a fundraising event.

Heath’s best friend Tim Lines, 38, a businessman, from Lyndhurst, the main organiser of the event, said thousands had been raised but the family preferred not to reveal the exact figure.

And added: “ It was a great success, a brilliant day. We raised a lot more than what we expected.

"The family was overwhelmed by all. This shows how much Heath is loved in the community. If he wasn’t as loved as he is, people wouldn’t have come out two days before Christmas.”

During the day participants also had the chance to enjoy a cake sale and an auction.

Heath, who grew up in Southampton and now lives in Totton, is the owner of Heath Bland Construction.

He was also a member of the Dibden and the Brockenhurst Manor clubs.

Tim said Heath’s condition is improving.

“He is not as bad as he was,” he added.

Tim thanked everyone who supported Saturday’s event and he said that he was considering organise another fundraising event next year, to raise money for the hospitals which have cared for Heath.

“We are thinking of running something similar next year but with Heath taking part,” said Tim.

As previously reported, a fundraising campaign has been launched online. To donate visit gofundme.com/4umq2k8.