Cross Hills' Luke Newton

An Eastburn footballer is on the mend after being knocked unconscious in a football match.
Luke Newton, 21, a left back for Cross Hills Football Club, was playing in the Craven League’s Premier Division cup final against Skipton LMS on Thursday when he went down in a collision with a LMS player in the 85th minute.
“There was a challenge, he fell badly and was knocked out,” said Paul Smith, secretary of Cross Hills FC.
“They were both challenging for the ball and he fell awkwardly and hit his head on Chris Simpson’s boot. He was out cold for a few minutes.”
Mr Smith said paramedics were quick to respond to the incident and Luke was transported to Airedale Hospital, where he was diagnosed with a concussion and whiplash.
He was fitted with a neck brace and was kept in hospital overnight, and has since returned home.
“Luckily he’s all right,” said Mr Smith, who said there was “no bad taste” or “maliciousness” in the challenge.
However, there was great deal of concern from players on the pitch, Luke’s family and other supporters who attended the match at Skipton Town’s ground, off Engine Shed Lane.
After a long stoppage, the two teams completed the last five minutes of the match, which LMS won 4-1. Mr Smith said Luke’s teammates went to visit him in hospital afterwards, and they were encouraged that he would make a full recovery.
“His season is finished now, but he has plenty of time to get over it and I expect he’ll be back in September,” said Mr Smith. “Luke’s a good little footballer."