A YOUNG rugby player has died after suffering a head injury during a match at North Tawton.

Lily Partridge, aged 23, was injured on Sunday at North Tawton’s ground while playing during a training session match with Devon Ladies.

She collapsed on the side of the pitch and was airlifted to hospital; her life support machine was switched off on Monday night. Several of her organs have been donated to help others.

She had played for Exonian Ladies for 18 months. The Exonian Ladies team is linked to Topsham Rugby Club.

In a statement, the club said: ‘We are devastated to hear that Lily Partridge, a talented, vivacious and universally-loved founding member of Exonian Ladies’ rugby team, has died following a training session for Devon Ladies.

‘Lily was an integral part of building our ladies’ team into a huge success and all of us who knew her are utterly heartbroken.

‘The void that has been left in the hearts of her teammates and the wider club will be impossible to fill. We extend our deepest sympathies to Lily’s family and friends, who have understandably asked for privacy at this most tragic of times.’