Danny Kerry has thanked everyone who helped him after he suffered a heart attack in Johannesburg ©Getty Images

Danny Kerry, who coached Great Britain’s women’s hockey team to Olympic gold last year, has thanked doctors and everyone else who helped him after suffering a heart attack in South Africa.

The 46-year-old, who is head coach of England’s women, was taken ill during the Hockey World League semi-final event at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg on July 15.

However, Kerry, who received treatment at the city’s Milpark Hospital, has said in a statement that he is now recovering from the incident and thanked doctors and team staff who assisted him while in South Africa.

“I would like to give my huge thanks and debt of gratitude of Dr Ramjee and the wonderful staff at Milpark for the exceptional care I received whilst in hospital,” said Kerry, who also coached Britain’s women to a bronze medal at London 2012.

“At the same time, I wish to place on record my thanks to our team doctor, Cath Lester, who took me into hospital and liaised with my family, the team and England Hockey back home.

“I would also like to convey how proud I am of how both players and staff continued through the tournament in such a professional manner, particularly during the Saturday I was admitted.

“Finally I look forward to some extended time with my wonderful family and friends, to recovering and to returning to the role I love in due course.”

According to England Hockey, Kerry is expected to return to work in September.

Before then, assistant coach David Ralph will lead the team during their title defence at the EuroHockey Championship, taking place in Amsterdam between August 19 and 27.

England’s women finished in third place in Johannesburg, beating Argentina 5-2 on the final day of competition on Sunday (July 23).

At Rio 2016, Britain claimed their first gold in the women’s competition after a thrilling shoot-out victory against defending champions The Netherlands after the teams drew 3-3.

Members of the team have sent messages of support to Kerry, including Alex Danson, who tweeted: “All of us are right by your side @Danny_Kerry wishing you the speediest of recoveries.”

Kate Richardson-Walsh, Britain’s captain in Rio, also sent a get well soon message to Kerry.

“Wishing Coach @Danny_Kerry the very speediest of recoveries,” she tweeted.

“Rest up and come back stronger than ever.

“Thoughts are with you and your family.”