A FATHER whose "fit and healthy" son suddenly died from a rare heart condition while on holiday is aiming to save lives by raising awareness of the threat.

John Dick was 34 when he collapsed without warning after telling people he felt tired following a swim in the sea in Lanzarote six years ago.

Now his father, Malcolm, 74, of Elrington Road, Woodford Green, is continuing his quest to encourage regular heart monitoring of those at risk of Young Sudden Cardiac Death.

The 74-year-old is preparing to take part in the Heart of London Bridges Walk on July 15, which tours 12 of the capital's landmarks in memory of the dozen young people who die from the condition every week.

He said: "(John) loved to play golf, go parachuting and snorkelling. He was just a fit and healthy young man. He never smoked and rarely drank.

"That is what is so characteristic of this syndrome and what makes it so tragic.

"His death hit the family hard. We flew out to Lanzarote immediately to bring him home - there was no logic in it, we just wanted to be close to him.

"No parent should go through losing their child.

"I think every young person should have screening to check for heart problems.

"Everyone thinks it will never happen to them, but when it does it's tragic. If John had been screened then perhaps he would still be with us today.

"It takes about four seconds for something to happen and if I, for example, was to collapse where I'm standing I doubt anyone would reach me in time with a defibrillator to save my life."

Mr Dick's daughter Julia, and three grandchildren now have their hearts monitored annually at the London Heart Hospital.

Also taking part in the walk is James Henderson, 53, of Peel Road, South Woodford, in memory of his friend's son Tom Padmore.

Mr Padmore suddenly died last year aged 25 from a rare heart condition, while helping a friend move house.

Mr Henderson said: "It was so sudden, he just collapsed on the scene and died. His family are now undergoing tests to check for the same condition."

To sponsor Mr Dick visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/JNbenson3733.

To sponsor Mr Henderson visit virginmoneygiving.com/team/tommysteam11.

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