Workers at United Colliery, Warkworth, came together for a golf day on Sunday with a target to raise $10,000 for their comrade, Ian Fenton, who suffered a debilitating stroke in October.

Mr Fenton was at his North Rothbury home when the stroke occurred.

His six-year-old son watched as ambulance officers took him away. The stroke affected his speech, eyesight, and mobility on his right side.

Using hand gestures and limited speech, Mr Fenton, 52, said he attended physiotherapy once a week and was improving, but could not return to work.

Once a regular on night shift, Mr Fenton admitted he missed working.

His sister, Janet Fenton, said the stroke had taken away the daily pleasures in life most people take for granted.

“He can’t drive a car, he can’t kick a ball with his son, he can’t answer the telephone,” she said.

But the support demonstrated by his mates at the day gave them strength.

“You’ve got no idea – you could burst into tears,” she said.

“It’s so overwhelming, but exhilarating at the same time.

“Without support, I don’t think anyone could get through it.”

Organiser Kel Mather said 107 people turned out for the golf day, and mining companies were happy to be involved.

Sponsors, including Firestorm, Valley Longwall Drilling, BJ’s Workwear and Weston Conveying Service, contributed $7000 before the day began.

Mr Mather said he hoped proceeds from the day, including an auction, would reach their target of $10,000.