West Bromwich Albion fan who had cardiac arrest in stands back home after life-saving operation

Mark Johnson, aged 54, thanked those who helped after he collapsed while watching the Baggies take on Chelsea in the Premier League.

Stunned supporters sitting nearby spoke of their shock as Mr Johnson was taken ill during the second half of the game on Monday evening.

He was attending the game with his own father Terry, his half brother Liam and family friend Ben Scrocca.

Matchday stewards rushed to the aid of Mr Johnson, who is a gas engineer, from Stourport, moments after he collapsed while sitting in the upper tier of the East Stand.

They were joined by an off duty consultant Russell Davis to perform CPR to keep him alive until paramedics arrived a short time later.

His heart was shocked seven times with a defibrillator before he taken to Sandwell Hospital where he was given a operation on Wednesday.

Mr Johnson wanted to thank those who helped him and says he would like to be reunited with them to thank them personally when he is able.

Mr Davis was also part of the team at Sandwell Hospital alongside Dr Derek Connolly to help with his care in the following days.

He said: "I want to say thank you to all the staff and medics and kind words from all.

"I can't remember a lot myself but all thanks go to Mr Davis, Sandwell Hospital, all the team at West Bromwich Albion and supporters."

Mr Johnson has supported West Brom his entire life and has not missed a game at The Hawthorns this season.

He is married to Jeanette and has two sons James, aged 23, and 16-year-old Lewis.

Mr Johnson's son James said he also wanted to express his and the family's gratitude to those who helped his father.

He has been unable to attend the game himself and gave his ticket to Ben Scrocca instead.

"We would really like to thank the people who helped him - the off duty doctor, the off duty nurse, the paramedics, the West Bromwich Albion staff.

"Their quick actions literally saved my father's life. I want them and the staff and Sandwell hospital to know how grateful we are for all they have done for my dad."

The family will be tuned in to the television on Sunday to cheer on the Baggies during the final league game against Arsenal.

James said: "He certainly will. He'll be watching with the rest of us."

West Midlands Ambulance Service paid tribute to the quick-thinking actions of staff at the ground for efforts

Spokesman Murray MacGregor said at the time: "There is no doubt that the quick actions of stewards and ambulance staff has given the fan the best possible chance of survival.

"This is one of the reasons we recommend everyone to learn basic life support skills – you never know when they might be needed."