Statement issued through the Benevolent Fund on behalf of Stanley Rangers.

It is with the deepest regret that the Stanley Rangers Club is announcing the sad passing of their under 14, player Evan Hawksworth. The club wish to express their sincerest condolences to Evan’s family.

Steve Abrahams, Stanley Rangers under 14 coach has informed Evan’s teammates calling Evan “our great friend, teammate and all round good guy”.

Evan’s father Gary said “Evan passed away playing the game he loved. He was never without a rugby ball in his hands. This is a tragic freak accident and no-one is to blame”.

The club has set up a Just Giving page to support Evan’s family and will continue fund raising whilst celebrating Evan’s life, with events taking place at Stanley Rangers ground on Friday July 14th at 6pm.

He will be missed by all who knew him and was a very special young man.