A family are hoping to raise awareness of heart disease after a Burnley dad died four days after Christmas from an undiagnosed condition.

James Saunders, originally from Loughborough, 53, died after he suffered a cardiac arrest at home on Wednesday, December 29.

Post-mortem examinations of James found that he had a underlying genetic health condition named hemopericardium, which the family had not known about.

Hemopericardium is a condition that affects the cardiovascular system.

It typically begins with blood accumulating in the pericardial sac posterior to the heart, and eventually expands to surround the entire heart. 

Amber Celia Saunders, 26, one of James' daughters, has started a GoFundMe in memory of her dad.

Amelia said: "This came as a huge shock to us all and it has left us with an irreplaceable hole in our hearts that cannot be filled.

"We are overwhelmed with the amount of love we’ve received after sharing the devastating news of our Dad passing away.

"My Dad was a much loved father, brother and friend. A lot of you have offered your help and support. 

"All the money donated will go towards funeral costs and provide him the lovely send off and celebration of his life, which he deserves."

James suffered a cardiac arrest after his daughter had gone to work, and though her boyfriend rang for an ambulance they "knew he was gone due to the way he looked".

Emergency responders told them they had to try to get him off the couch to try to resuscitate him, but after the ambulance arrived, there was nothing they could do.

Amber said her father was fit and healthy until he died, and the coroner told her there was nothing they could have done.

She added: "We are totally understanding that Christmas has just passed, however we would be grateful for any amount donated.

"If this is not possible, we’d really appreciate your support in liking and sharing our post."

You can find the GoFundMe page by searching for James Saunders.