Friends of a much-loved Margate man who tragically died in a pub are raising money for a defibrillator to be fitted inside.

Ian Houldey was a regular at the Nineteenth Hole in Kingsgate, popping in for drink three times a week.

Two weeks ago the 68-year-old suffered a heart attack but despite the best efforts of landlord Peter Milton and paramedics, he could not be revived.

Now Mr Milton and wife Lynda are going on a six-mile sponsored walk to a number of Thorley Tavern pubs around the coast to raise money for the life-saving device.

Lynda, who took over the pub a year ago, says it may prevent future tragedies. "We are not sure it would have helped Ian but we really felt we should get one anyway. It was a terrible shock."

Mr Houldey was well known in Thanet and was passionate about the area he grew up in often joining historical walks.

Sisters Gail and Karen say he was a devoted great-uncle and a lover of sports including football and rugby.

"He swam three times a week at Hartsdown and was always trying new things such as paddle boarding," said Karen who works for Thorley Taverns.

Mr Houldey, a former Natwest bank worker, also loved music collecting vinyl for his eclectic taste and was a regular at Margate FC.

Supporters at the Hartsdown ground held a minute-long applause in his honour before a match to pay their respects.

An avid blood donor, he received special recognition after giving his 100th pint and always donated to various charities.

Although healthy and fit the former Chatham and Clarendon pupil had recently suffered a minor heart attack but was recovering well.

"He had done all the right things and was doing light weights in the gym. He was frustrated and not being able to give blood for a while," said Gail.

"It has come as a shock."

Mr Houldey's funeral took place at Thanet Crematorium where his family were overwhelmed by the number of people who arrived to pay their respects and the wake was held at the Nineteenth Hole.

The sponsored walk will start at the pub on George Hill Road at 11.30am, tomorrow.

To donate visit the pub.