A RUGBY player died during a match despite valiant efforts by fellow players to revive him.

Terry Parsons, 48, and from Darlington, was playing for Newton Aycliffe RUFC at an away game in Houghton-le-Spring on Saturday when he collapsed during the first half.

In a tribute to the popular father-of-five, his club offered its gratitude to Aycliffe's Paul Ryans and Houghton RUFC's Gareth Hockey for their attempts to resuscitate him.

They said: "He (Mr Parsons) was quickly treated on the field by a paramedic and the emergency services. Unfortunately he was unable to be revived.

The Northern Echo:

Terry Parsons with sons Matt, left, and Jack, right, sporting the Newton Aycliffe RUFC colours

"The club would like to express its deepest sympathies to Terry's family, friends and team mates at this very difficult time for everyone.

"We have lost a very popular member of Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club who will be forever missed."

Dozens of people last night paid their own tributes to Mr Parsons, who played loose-head prop for Aycliffe and had been involved with the club since about 1996.

The North East Ambulance Service confirmed they were called to the pitch, on Dairy Lane, Houghton-le-Spring, at 3.37pm.

A double crewed-ambulance arrived within four minutes, followed shortly by a helicopter from the Great North Air Ambulance Service.

Mr Parsons, who was married to wife Alison Parsons, was airlifted to Sunderland Royal Hospital.

A spokesperson for the club added: "Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club will be forever grateful for Houghton Rugby Club's support and respect in the immediate aftermath of the incident."

Other players and clubs added their condolences including Bishop Auckland Rugby Club which wrote: "Our heartfelt condolences to our rugby brother from Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club. The passing of Mr Terry Parsons hits the rugby family today.

"Our thoughts are with his family and the lads in burgundy and green today."

Neil Hartley wrote: "Heartbreaking news. You should never go out to play a game of rugby and not go home to your family. What a tragic event.

"My thoughts are with his family and friends.

"I hope he is remembered at games around County Durham on Saturday."

While David Gibson wrote: "Absolutely horrendous day yesterday! Such a tragic loss and something you never expect to happen to one of your mates in front of your eyes. My deepest sympathies go out Terry's friends and family."