Rugby star and family die after falling in slurry tank

The sporting community has been rocked by the death of Ireland and Ulster rugby player Nevin Spence who was killed along with his brother and father this weekend after a fatal fall into a slurry tank on their farm in Hillsborough, England.

The 22-year-old winger’s sister Emma is also recovering in hospital after being rescued, but is still critically ill.

It is believed Nevin and Emma were attempting to rescue their brother Graham and father Noel, who had already fallen into the tank attempting to save the family dog.

Ambulance crews were called to the farm just after 18:00 BST on Saturday.

Tributes have begun for Nevin, 22, who starred as his club beat Munster 20-19 on Friday night.

Ulster Rugby chief executive Shane Logan said: “Nevin was a wonderful player but also a wonderful person.

"He was well liked by everyone who knew him and his loss will be deeply felt by his teammates and everyone at Ulster Rugby."

He was an integral player in Irish rugby’s development team and a member of the Six Nations Squad.

Northern Ireland golfer Rory McIlroy said online: "Just heard the tragic news of Nevin Spence and his family. Makes you cherish every day you have on this Earth."