A BRADFORD rugby league club will hold an annual fundraiser for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) in memory of a former player who died suddenly.

West Bowling ARLFC will host a gala day later this month in tribute to dad-of-three Lee Hunter.

He had to retire aged 25 after being diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. This rare heart condition was caused by a viral infection, which caused inflammation of his heart muscle and resulted in it becoming thicker – making it harder for his heart to pump blood around his body properly.

Lee, who lived in Halifax, took medication to control his condition and was able to live an active and healthy lifestyle.

In July 2018, Lee had a sudden cardiac arrest at home, but he died aged 42.

The club will hold its third Lee Hunter Memorial Day on Saturday, July 23 at Horsfall Stadium.

The event will include juniors and masters rugby matches, with a West Bowling v Milford National Conference League clash at 2.30pm.

Gates will open from 9am, where attendees can make a complimentary donation to the BHF. Adults attending from 12pm onwards to watch the masters or NCL match will be required to pay £3 admission, with under-16s entering for free.