A FORMER Basildon mayor is in hospital after suffering a sudden and unexpected cardiac arrest - sparking well-wishes from across the community. 

David Harrison is an Independent councillor at Wickford Town Council, and was previously Basildon Mayor between 2016 and 2018.

On Monday, Mr Harrison began feeling unwell was taken to A&E. 

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While in the queue, he took a turn for the worse, before then going into a cardiac arrest.

Thankfully, following CPR and the use of a defibrillator, he was resuscitated and is now in Basildon Hospital recovering.

His wife, also a fellow Wickford Town councillor, Linda Harrison, said: “He was diagnosed with prostate cancer 13 years ago and had his prostate removed.

“He has gone on fine since, until a little while ago when his PSA started to rise again. He is on hormone treatment now, but it was still rising, so last week he started on a new drug.

“This was causing problems, so on Monday an ambulance took him to A&E. Whilst in the queue he been unwell, and I called for help.

“He then had a cardiac arrest. Thankfully, because of the swift reaction of the team and the expertise of the doctor, he is here with me and talking to me now.”

Earlier this year David announced to Basildon Borough Council that he was retiring.

Many fellow colleagues and councillors have since passed on their well wishes to David and his family.

Derek Harrison, chair of Wickford Town Council, said: “We were preparing for our annual council meeting on Monday when we heard the news that David was in hospital.

“Our best wishes go to David, and hope that he makes a speedy recovery.

“Our thoughts are also with his wife, Linda, and the family.”

Andrew Baggott, Conservative leader of Basildon Council, said: “Our thoughts are with David and his family at this time. I wish him a speedy recovery.”

Luke Mackenzie, the current Mayor of Basildon, added: “I am so sorry to hear about David, but I am relieved to hear he is getting better.

“I wish him a speedy and full recovery.”