Football player dies during game

Mr Collier collapsed during the first half of the game

League officials in south Wales have expressed shock after a footballer died after collapsing during a match.

Peter Collier, 37, from Newport, had been playing for Lliswerry against AC Pontymister on Saturday when he collapsed during the first half.

Players and match officials gave first aid at the scene but attempts to resuscitate him failed and he died.

Football officials said the death of the father-of-one, who had only been married two months, was "devastating".

Peter Aston from the Newport and District Football League said: "You never expect anything like that to happen, he was young, fit and healthy and it is a huge shock to everyone.

"It is hard to take in really.

"I've spoken to the secretaries of both sides and it has really cut everyone up.

"I didn't know him personally but everyone I've spoken to has said was an extremely likeable chap," he added.

Mr Collier had been playing an away game as part of the Lliswerry seconds team against AC Pontymister when he collapsed a few minutes before the end of the first half.

It is thought that he suffered a suspected heart attack.

The game was abandoned after attempts to revive Mr Collier failed.

In tribute to Mr Collier, club officials said he had played for the team since he was a teenager and had been a fit and active man. He was described as a "fabulous guy" by the club.