Midlands Air Ambulance

A footballer died after collapsing in front of horrified players during a training match on pitches in Telford.

Wayne Pooler, who was playing in goal, slum-ped to the ground during the game.

It happened at Bluebell Park, Sandcroft, Sutton Hill, Telford, last night.

Onlookers fought to save the 40-year-old, of Tweedale Crescent, Madeley, as he lapsed in and out of consciousness while others alerted emergency services.

His fiancee of 20 years, Nicola Burgess today paid tribute to the popular father-of-three, who was “loved by everybody”.

She said she wanted to thank people, including Tracey Blevins, of Aqueduct, who had tried to save his life.

Miss Burgess added: “He was so adorable, he would do anything for anybody.”

The tragedy happened at the end of a training session for Madeley Sports ladies team.

Team manager Zoe Pritchard today said: “We were having a game at the end of training and there were team members and some of their parents taking part, along with a couple of young lads from the area.

“We didn’t see him collapse. We just discovered him slumped on the ground and a few of us ran over to him. He was conscious initially and muttering but we couldn’t make out what he was saying and then he lapsed into unconsciousness.

“We began giving him the kiss of life and heart massage and he came round twice before falling unconscious again.”

Murray McGregor, Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman, said: “We were called just before 7pm and took one man, aged about 40, to New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton by air ambulance. Sadly, despite all efforts, the man was confirmed dead shortly after arrival at the hospital.”