A NON-LEAGUE football club is in mourning after one of its players, James Moorfoot, collapsed and died on the pitch during a game.
The English teacher, 28, was playing for Langtoft AFC in Rudston, East Yorkshire against Hedon Rangers’ third team on Saturday in the East Riding County League.
A number of paramedics and the air ambulance were called to the Rudston playing fields just before 3.30pm after Moorfoot had been taken ill.
Tragically, the emergency services were unable to save him and Moorfoot was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Langtoft statement read: “We are currently trying to come to terms with the tragic and sudden passing of James Moorfoot. We are numb with grief.
“James had a contagious energy and humour which lit up a room and will be dearly missed by so many. We can seek the smallest solace in the fact that James passed away doing what he loved, in the village that he loved, surrounded by people who loved him.
“We cannot thank enough the emergency services and the players of Hedon Rangers who worked so bravely to save James.
“At this time all of our thoughts are with James’ family. Everyone associated with Langtoft Football Club, past and present, sends their love and condolances at this difficult time.”
Bridlington Town reserves manager Terry Finney played alongside Moorfoot for Langtoft and Bridlington have confirmed they will hold a minute’s silence before Tuesday night’s match against Harrogate Railway Athletic in the Northern Counties East League.
It’s the second time this season a Non-League player has died while playing. Shaw Lane’s Daniel Wilkinson, 26, passed away in September after collapsing on the pitch during the club’s game against Brighouse Town.
