Rugby player dies after a stroke

Despite his accident Ali Johnson never lost his love of rugby

A Tynedale rugby player who was paralysed in an accident during a game four years ago has died.

Ali Johnson, 28, from Haltwhistle, in Northumberland was injured when a scrum collapsed on him in 2004.

The accident left him with a dislocated vertebra and damaged spinal cord. He died on Monday after suffering a stroke a week ago.

Rugby Football Union President Brian Williams paid tribute to Mr Johnson's "Enormous bravery and good humour".

'Special lad'

He said: "My thoughts and those of all the Rugby Union fraternity at this sad time are with his family.

"Ali was obviously a very special lad who has shown immense courage in dealing with his problems.

"Throughout his difficulties, he never lost his love of rugby and made trips to Twickenham and Kingston Park to watch England and the Falcons, as well as to Tynedale, where he remained in close touch with his many friends and former teammates."

Speaking on Tuesday Mr Johnson's father, Ken, said: "Since his accident, it's been four years of incredible highs and lows.

"We are very proud of him and of the way he dealt with what was a catastrophic injury. He always tried to make the best of things."

In a statement on their website the Tynedale Rugby Football Club said they were stunned and saddened to learn of Mr Johnson's death.

They added that all their thoughts and prayers were with his family.