Rival club praised after Town player collapses on pitch

Town’s Development team centre forward Craig Billington has been undergoing tests in a Durham City hospital after collapsing in Tuesday night’s Doodson League Cup tie at Spennymoor Town.

Halifax-based Billington, 25, who is also manager of the Brighouse Town Ladies Development team, collapsed in the 40th minute and was immediately attended to by Town’s staff, manager Paul Quinn and the Spennymoor physio, before being taken to hospital by ambulance.

Charlie Tolley, vice chairman of Brighouse Town said: “On behalf of everyone at Brighouse Town FC can I please extend our gratitude and thanks for the help and support that was given to Craig Billington our centre forward who collapsed on the pitch during the Doodson Cup tie at Brewery Field last night.

“Everyone at Spennymoor Town reacted and dealt with the incident in a professional, calm and effective manner.

“It is testament to such a well-run club that when action is actually needed both clubs representatives knew what they were doing and implemented it – I am sure all clubs, us included, have the procedures agreed and documented, but it is only when they need to be put into practice does it actually show how effective they are.

“I would like to advise the many members of Spennymoor staff and officials and supporters throughout the league who were asking about Craig that he is currently in Durham Hospital undergoing tests for what it would appear is some underlying medical issue.

“He is comfortable and wondering what all the fuss is about but it is crucial that whatever the issue is it can be identified and dealt with so hopefully he can resume playing sooner rather than later.

“Good luck to Spennymoor in the next round of the cup and we look forward to welcoming you to The Dual Seal Stadium in February.

Manager Paul Quinn and Mr Tolley went to Durham Teaching Hospital after the game and found Billington to be conscious and a lot better.

“We were told they would be keeping him under observation overnight and he would be undergoing tests the following day,” said Mr Quinn.

“I can’t speak highly enough of the Spennymoor staff and club, they were superb with the support they gave the player and ourselves. I will be ringing them to thank them once more for their help.”