£20,000 raised in memory of Dundee footballer Pete McAvoy

The father of a Dundee footballer, who collapsed and died just hours after a match, has revealed about £20,000 has been raised in his memory.

Pete McAvoy, 22, was taken to hospital following a match for his team, Herkimer Generals, in the US in April last year, but could not be saved by medics.

It is believed he suffered a heart attack as a result of an undiagnosed heart condition.

After the tragedy, his father, also Peter, started the social media campaign #4Pete, which saw celebrities paying tribute to the player by holding up four fingers.

Due to charity events set up by Peter and his son’s friends, about £20,000 has been raised.

The success of the campaign was recognised at the British Heart Foundation Alliance Awards on Thursday, where it was nominated for a Heart Hero award.

Peter, 57, of Strips of Craigie, said: “The support I’ve had from Pete’s friends and people all around the world has been just amazing.

“We didn’t win the award, but the nomination was a tribute to everyone who has been part of it. The total amount that has been raised must be quite staggering I think we’re between £18,000 and £20,000.”