A family left “devastated” after their father died of a heart condition held a charity golf match in his memory.

Colette Hurley, and her children, Rebecca, 17, Jessica, 15, and Greg, 14, who live in Potters Bar, invited their friends to raise money in tribute to their father Phil Hurley.

Mr Hurley, 61, died of an aortic dissection - a tear in an artery - last November, despite having previously been fit and healthy.

The event was held at the Hertfordshire Golf and Country Club in Essendon in support of Heart Research UK and the Keech Hospice.

Mrs Hurley said: “Everyone was so shocked about Phil’s death because he was fit and healthy and there was no warning.

“We are a very sporty family and the golf day was a fitting way of doing something to promote more awareness of aortic dissection.

“His death has had a devastating effect on the family, and the support we had at the event – from supporters and sponsors – was amazing.

“Our new philosophy is, don’t take life for granted because you never know what is around the corner.”

More than 250 people attended the event, which raised £3,000. Greg, a champion golfer, also took part.

Mr Hurley, a retired mining engineer, was a keen golfer and member of the club.

Mrs Hurley, a retired PE teacher at Stormont School, in Potters Bar, said: “An aortic dissection. It is something you never expect to happen to you.

“We just wanted to raise money for a charity that did research into conditions like that.”

To donate, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/hurley5