A PENSIONER collapsed and died as he watched his grandson play football.

The unnamed 78-year-old fell ill during the game at Stonards Hill, Epping, just before 11am yesterday (Sunday).

Two St John Ambulance volunteers, Kevan Barrett and Ana McNaughton, were first on the scene, arriving from a training course at nearby St Margaret's hospital.

Ambulance crews and an air ambulance swiftly followed, but were unable to revive the man.

An East of England Ambulance Service spokeswoman said its crews were called to the scene at 10.50am to reports of a man passing out.

She said: "The 78-year-old man had gone into cardiac arrest and the crews worked on him for some time.

"Members of the public provided a great deal of help including carrying kit and holding fluid bags.

"Sadly, despite the crews' best efforts, the aircrew doctor pronounced the patient deceased at the scene.

"Our thoughts are with the family at this time."

A spokeswoman for St John Ambulance said: "In spite of this team effort, the elderly grandfather could not be saved.

"It is clear though that he was given the best of chances of survival by the system of effective deployment of the emergency team."

Did you know the man and wish to leave a tribute to him? Leave your comment below or email reporter Daniel Binns on dbinns@london.newsquest.co.uk or call 0779 547 6625.