Family of Marham serviceman 'overwhelmed by outpouring of well wishes'

The family of an RAF Marham serviceman who died after sustaining a head injury on Friday have thanked medical staff and those in the Rugby League world for their support.

Senior Aircraftman (Technician) Scott Stevenson, who was 25, was hurt in an Inter-Services rugby league match on Friday, while playing for the RAF against the Army at Aldershot.

Having been reported to be in a critical but stable condition in hospital over the weekend, the news of his death was confirmed by the base yesterday evening.

His family said rugby was his "whole life" from as early as six-years-old.

They said: "We take great comfort in the knowledge that he passed doing something he loved, surrounded by his teammates, all of whom care about him dearly. Few of us are fortunate enough to leave life in such a way.

"It is important to us that everyone knows Scott suffered no pain, stress or discomfort.

"We would like to put on record our thanks for the superb medical care Scott received at pitch-side, in the stadium and at the specialist Neuro-ICU at St George’s Hospital, London.

"Thank you to all the players and staff at the various teams Scott played for, from Harrogate to the United Kingdom Armed Forces and all those who are in between.

"Scott loved his job, loved life, and loved his Rugby and we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of well wishes and the camaraderie shown by the Rugby League world.

"We are genuinely touched by just how many peoples’ lives Scott influenced and how much he meant to so many."

They ended their statement with the Latin phrase "Per Ardua Ad Astra", meaning "through adversity to the stars" – which is the RAF motto.