Teenager dies after rugby collapse

Tributes have been paid to a15-year-old boy who died after collapsing on a rugby pitch. West Midlands Ambulance Service were called to Baxter College yesterday afternoon after reports that a boy had stopped breathing.

The teenager, named locally as Luke Chapman, was a pupil at Haybridge High in Hagley, Worcestershire, and was playing in a match at Baxter College in Kidderminster when he collapsed on Tuesday afternoon. He was airlifted to Birmingham Children's Hospital.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said:

Ambulance crews took over resuscitation attempts and advanced life support was carried out at the scene. The boy was transferred to Birmingham Children's Hospital by air ambulance for further emergency treatment.

Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of ambulance crews and hospital staff, nothing could be done to save the boy and he passed away shortly after arriving at hospital

Luke's school released a statement on the Haybridge High website this morning. Headteacher Caroline Hoddinott said:

As you know, as a school we have experienced a tragic loss. Our thoughts are with family and friends. Thank you for all your support and prayers at this time."