A CROWDFUNDING campaign has been set up to support the families of two rugby players who died while on tour in Sri Lanka.

Thomas Howard, 25, and Tom Baty, 26, who are both from Durham, fell ill on Sunday after returning from a night out.

Mr Howard died on Sunday while Mr Baty died on Tuesday after being treated at a hospital in Colombo.

The men are both members of the team Clems Pirates, which is affiliated with Durham City Rugby Club.

Last night dozens of people had contributed to the fund, which is aimed at supporting the families of the two men.

Aaron Morrison, who started the crowdfunding campaign, said: “Thomas and Tom had many friends and were well known within the local community. They will be extremely missed by all.

“The money raised will be donated to the families of Thomas Howard and Tom Baty to support them in any way that they may need.”

The causes of death are unknown.

It has been reported that post-mortem tests on Mr Howard found no injury or natural causes and further tests have been ordered.

Police told the BBC that they are looking at whether drugs played a part.

To contribute visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/thomasandtom