Team-mate saves player's life

A rugby player saved the life of a team-mate who swallowed his tongue during a match.

The game was moved to an adjoining pitch during the drama at Stourbridge Rugby Club's Stourton Park ground.

Mark Eastwood collapsed 15 minutes before the end of the game and had to be revived by Stourbridge team-mate Scott Witcomb, who removed Mr Eastwood's gumshield and pulled his tongue from his windpipe.

The former Malvern centre, who has been at Stourbridge for six years, was rushed to hospital after being attended to by team doctor Malcolm Jones. He was released later that night.

It is believed the incident occurred when Mr Eastwood was caught on the chin in an accidental collision.

Club spokesman Ian Cole said: "Mark swallowed his tongue but, as a result of medical attention, he's OK now. Scott was first on the scene and knew exactly what to do – he pulled his tongue and gumshield out which saved his life.

"Mark received a blow which knocked him back and it closed up the windpipe, which is very dangerous.

"But he came out of hospital on Saturday night and he's OK now."

It is not yet known when Eastwood, who scored Stourbridge's third try in their 26-20 win, will play again.