Popular Stuart Attridge's family and friends were plunged into despair when the 25-year-old collapsed and died from an undiagnosed heart condition during a game of football. 

But five years on from his death, they have turned tragedy to hope, and raised more than £50,000 in his name.

Stuart's mum Rosemary has become a representative for charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) and hopes to raise another £10,000 at a charity dinner for the cause next month. 

"Stuart was all you could ever want in a son," the 64-year-old said.

"There are still days where I can't really believe he's not going to come through the door." 

Stuart, from Reigate, was a senior manager at the Reigate Manor Hotel in Reigate Hill, which his parents have run for the past 33 years.  He was playing football at Brockham Lane when he collapsed on January 29, 2006. 

CRY aims to reduce the frequency of sudden cardiac death in young people by raising awareness and encouraging people to be screened. 

Mrs Attridge, of Orchard Road, Reigate, added: "I have taken great comfort in doing all I can for CRY.  If we have saved one family from going through the absolute agony of losing someone like we did, it will be worthwhile." 

"He was running across the pitch and he just dropped dead," said Mrs Attridge. 

"They said he was probably dead before he hit the ground, it was just like turning of a light switch." 

His parents' anguish increased when screenings showed Stuart's younger sister Lucy suffered from the same condition.  She has since had a defibrillator fitted which should kick in if symptoms strike.

"Probably the most difficult thing is knowing that at every family occasion, like Lucy's wedding, somebody from your close family circle is not going to be there," said Mrs Attridge. 

"But all of his friends have been absolutely brilliant and they suggested we do another fundraiser to mark five years since his death. 

"We are fortunate because we have the space and our suppliers have donated the food.  Hundreds of people we know in the area have been enormously supportive." 

the charity dinner for 170 takes place at the Reigate Manor Hotel on February 4.  Any local business wishing to donate prizes should contact Mrs Attridge on 01737 241 707. 

Cardiac Risk in the Young

Stuart died from Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC). 

Every week about about 12 apparently healthy young people die from undiagnosed heart problems. 

Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) carried out ECG's on 7,067 people aged between 14 and 35 last year.  23 were found to have potentially life-threatening conditions. 

It costs £35 for a CRY ECG.  For more information go to www.c-r-y.org.uk