Tributes paid as former Manchester Storm ice hockey star dies

Tributes are being paid to the former Manchester Storm ice hockey star Wade MacLeod, who has died aged 38.Canadian forward MacLeod signed for Storm in August 2021 and left the Elite Hockey League outfit by mutual consent in November of the same year.Before joining Storm, he underwent four separate operations for brain tumours, plus chemotherapy and radiotherapy. One of the surgeries meant he lost his speech for almost two months.Storm posted on their Instagram page: "We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of former Storm player, Wade MacLeod."He was a true warrior, and his spirit will forever be part of the Storm family."Our deepest condolences go out to his wife Karly, their two daughters, and all of Wade’s loved ones at this incredibly difficult time."

In August 2021, just after signing for Storm, MacLeod told our sports correspondent Chris Hall that he was looking forward to getting back on the ice after his three-year absence due to illness: "When I take my first hit, it's going to get me going," he says, excitedly.

"Whatever hits come my way, I'll take in my stride."