A SCHOOL has paid tribute to a former Teesside footballer who died after taking ill at a restaurant in Teesside.

Former footballer Neil Campbell became unwell while having a meal at an Italian restaurant in Yarm on Saturday.

The 45-year-old worked at Acklam Grange School, in Middlesbrough, where colleagues have described him as a passionate and inspirational member of staff who enriched the lives of pupils. 

The Middlesbrough-born dad-of-two was known across Teesside and the UK for his football career, which saw him play over 400 games professionally for teams such as York City and Scarborough.

Read more: Former footballer died after taking ill while having meal at Italian restaurant in Yarm

A spokesperson for the school said: “We are deeply saddened by the news of the sudden and unexpected death of our colleague and friend Neil Campbell.

“Neil was a significant figure in our AGS Family and as such, the school supported by the trust will ensure that students and staff receive the support they need in light of this devastating news.

“Neil was extremely passionate about supporting students to be the very best that they can be and was a highly respected member of our senior leadership team.

“He was a friend to so many, and simply a lovely man who enriched the lives of those fortunate enough to know him.”

Mr Campbell joined the school in 2014 as a behaviour manager.

The school added: “Despite his challenging role, Neil remained resolutely positive and gained respect for his firm but fair approach to maintain the highest standards of behaviour.

“Our students and parents have been extremely fortunate to have known and been supported by Neil. We, as his colleagues, feel privileged to have worked with him.

“We will ensure that we continue to uphold the very best standards of behaviour in his memory, and for our students.

“As a former professional footballer, Neil continued to live an active and social life and was an inspiration to staff and students alike.

“His death will have a huge impact that will reverberate in many different communities outside of Acklam Grange. Above all, Neil was a family man. We ask that his family are given respect and privacy and our thoughts are with his partner, his children, his parents, brother, and wider family at this difficult time.”

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An ambulance was called to Uno Ristorante, in Yarm’s High Street, shortly after 7.10pm on Saturday.

Despite the efforts of paramedics the popular father-of-two was pronounced dead a short time later.

Among many former clubs, Mr Campbell played for local Northern League side Thornaby FC, for whom he was also assistant manager last season.

Clubs from across the region have been paying tribute to Mr Campbell.

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