Ex-England cricket captain Illingworth has heart attack

Ray Illingworth was treated at the coronary care unit at Leeds General Infirmary

Former England captain Ray Illingworth is hoping to be discharged from a coronary care unit just days after suffering a heart attack.

Mr Illingworth became ill on Tuesday and was treated at the unit at Leeds General Infirmary.

The 78-year-old, in his second and final year as president of Yorkshire, the county of his birth, also played for Leicestershire.

He scored 24,134 first class runs in his career, taking 2,072 wickets.

Robin Smith, a former president of Yorkshire, said: "I have spoken to his wife, Shirley, and it is expected that Raymond will be able to return to his Farsley home soon.

"The club sends every good wish to Raymond and his family. He is doing a tremendous job as Yorkshire president, and we trust it will not be long before he is back with us at Headingley."

Captain of Yorkshire, Leicestershire and England, Illingworth turned to commentating for BBC television after he retired from playing.

He also served England as test team manager and chairman of selectors.