Watford legend Blissett rushed to hospital after collapsing

After hosting an auction at this year’s My Local Hero event on Saturday, the former England striker left the main room and collapsed, according to event organisers.

Luther was rushed from The Grove Hotel, where the event was held, to Watford General Hospital and was subsequently transferred to a specialist hospital in London for further tests.

Luther Blissett is the Hornets' record goalscorer. Photo: Action Images.

The Watford Observer understands tests have shown Luther suffered a bleed on the brain, but in the days since he has made a good recovery and is in fine spirits. However, he will need to stay in hospital for a number of days for ongoing monitoring. 

His partner Lauren Fox told the Watford Observer: "The care Luther received at Watford Hospital was excellent and we'd like to thank them for looking after him so well.

"We also must thank Daniel Ginder and Norman McGuigan, fellow guests at the event, who assisted us in getting Luther to hospital."

She added: "He has been greatly cheered up by receiving messages from teammates in the Former Players Association and all around the world, as well as from fans of Watford and football in general. We're really touched by the concern so many people have shown."

• Watford legend Blissett reflects on the importance of winning
• Watford sign Blissett for fifth time to 'draw on his insight'
• New Watford ambassador Blissett reflects on his first week

The 66-year-old who made his Hornets debut in 1976 and became the club’s record goalscorer and leading appearance maker is one of only four men to play in all four divisions for Watford in their meteoric climb from the Fourth Division to the First Division.

Luther Blissett and Scott Duxbury shake when the club legend took on a new role at the club last year. (Image: Sol Tomlinson/Watford FC) He has also been extensively involved in charity work both locally and nationally, working with Forces United, the Sunflower Social Club, and Show Racism the Red Card to name just a few.

Blissett also currently serves as a deputy lieutenant of Hertfordshire.

This newspaper’s Watford FC correspondent, Andrew French, who is a friend of Mr Blissett after working with him at the club from 1998 to 2002, said: “Quite clearly this is worrying and distressing news, and I am sure I speak for all Watford fans and Watford Observer readers in sending heartfelt best wishes to a man whose name has been synonymous with the town for decades.

“Luther is, quite simply, Mr Watford. His legendary status at Vicarage Road is unrivalled, and the work he has done for the club, the town and football in general is truly outstanding.

“Hopefully it will not be too long before he is back on his feet and that unmistakable smile is back at Vicarage Road on matchdays.”

Luther with his OBE (Image: Andrew Matthews/PA)

Watford FC chairman and CEO Scott Duxbury added: “Luther and all of his loved ones know they have our full support. We will do all we can to help.”

Former Hornet Nigel Gibbs, who played alongside Blissett and was coached by him, added he was "shocked and concerned" by the news.

“Luther is a legend in every sense and is someone that is loved and respected by all those that played with him or that he coached," he said.

“I send my thoughts and prayers to Luther and his loved ones, and I am sure that I would be speaking on behalf of all teammates and fans when I say I hope he makes a speedy recovery and is back to full fitness very soon.”