Tributes have been paid to a former professional footballer who later worked in schools following his sudden death at the age of 45.
Neil Campbell passed away on Saturday (April 30) after becoming unwell at a restaurant during an incident that sparked a large emergency response, TeessideLive reports. Despite the efforts of medics in the north-east town of Yarm, they were unable to save the dad-of-two's life.
During his career, Neil - a striker - played for several clubs including in the Football League with the likes of York City, Scarborough and Southend United. He also played non-league football for Leigh RMI, Doncaster Rovers and Barrow before becoming assistant manager at local club Thornaby FC last season.
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After his professional football career finished, Neil, whose brother Andy also had a successful career playing up front for Middlesbrough and Cardiff City along with being capped by England at Under 21 level, worked for a school as a behaviour manager. One of the many tributes to Neil came from the school where he had worked since 2014.
A spokesperson for Acklam Grange School (AGS) said: "We are deeply saddened by the news of the sudden and unexpected death of our colleague and friend Neil Campbell. Neil was a significant figure in our AGS Family and as such, the school supported by the trust will ensure that students and staff receive the support they need in light of this devastating news.
"Neil was extremely passionate about supporting students to be the very best that they can be and was a highly respected member of our senior leadership team. He was a friend to so many, and simply a lovely man who enriched the lives of those fortunate enough to know him.
"Neil joined us at Acklam Grange in 2014 as whole school behaviour manager and was an instrumental part of our journey to improve our school. Despite his challenging role, Neil remained resolutely positive and gained respect for his firm but fair approach to maintain the highest standards of behaviour.
"Our students and parents have been extremely fortunate to have known and been supported by Neil. We, as his colleagues, feel privileged to have worked with him. We will ensure that we continue to uphold the very best standards of behaviour in his memory, and for our students.
"As a former professional footballer, Neil continued to live an active and social life and was an inspiration to staff and students alike. His death will have a huge impact that will reverberate in many different communities outside of Acklam Grange.
"Above all, Neil was a family man. We ask that his family are given respect and privacy and our thoughts are with his partner, his children, his parents, brother, and wider family at this difficult time."
Further tributes came in from former clubs who Neil had played for. Barrow said: "The club is extremely shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of former player Neil Campbell at the age of just 45. Neil scored 27 goals in 76 appearances for The Bluebirds after being signed for the Club by Lee Turnbull in 2003.
"Perhaps his most famous goal for Barrow turned out to be the winner in the UniBond Presidents Cup Final at Workington in April 2004. Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time."
Scarborough Athletic, formed by a supporters' trust after the demise of Scarborough FC, also paid tribute, saying: "Scarborough Athletic are deeply saddened to understand of the sudden passing of former player, Neil Campbell. Neil Campbell, who enjoyed two spells with Scarborough FC in the Football League between 1995-1997 and again in the Conference under Russell Slade in 2002-03.
"His former clubs include York City, Barrow and Doncaster Rovers, Southend United and Leigh RMI alongside his two spells with Scarborough FC. Neil was a character, loved by so many and maintained an interest in Scarborough, years after he moved on to pastures new, attending the Legends Game events, held over the past three years.
"We would like to pass on our deepest condolences to Neil's family and friends as we woke up to the very sad news."
A minute's applause was also conducted before Southend's National League clash with Weymouth yesterday (May 2). On Twitter, the Essex club wrote: "Before the match kicks off, both sets of players, staff and supporters stand for a minute's applause for former Blues player Neil Campbell who sadly passed away this weekend at the age of 45. RIP, Neil."
