Tributes have been coming in for a rugby referee who has died after collapsing while refereeing a match.

Dennis Russell, from Chelmsford, was officiating a match when he suffered a massive heart attack with seven minutes left before the end.

Despite attempts by players and spectators to revive him Mr Russell fell into a coma, never regaining consciousness. He died on Saturday, a week after he collapsed.

The game was an Eastern Counties Two South league match between South Woodham Ferrers and Westcliff at Saltcoats Playing Fields, South Woodham Ferrers.

Essex County Rugby Football Union press officer Ivor Smith said: "Dennis will always be remembered on the rugby fields of Essex as being a very enthusiastic referee and touch judge.

"He was respected and well liked wherever he went and his jovial banter ensured that he kept a grip on the games he officiated at."

Mr Russell, 52, had been a member of the Essex Referee Society since 1994.

He had also joined the society's committee and become the appointments secretary and been appointed training officer for the society.

Mr Russell, the father of two grown-up sons, had also become the county representative on the Eastern Counties Rugby Union Referee Federation.

Mr Smith said Mr Russell was also interested in the welfare of his fellow referees and would accompany them when they were required as witnesses at Disciplinary Committee meetings.

He added: "Dennis was respected by players both young and old, his enthusiasm and wit will be sadly missed from the playing fields of Essex."

Published Friday October 11, 2002

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