“He will be remembered fondly”
(Image: PAUL GILLIS / Reach PLC)
Heartfelt tributes have been pouring in for a man who died in hospital after collapsing during a half marathon in Bristol.
Jon Devereux collapsed during the event yesterday, Sunday, May 11, and was taken to hospital, where he later died.
Tributes have been shared by his local rugby club, Chester RUFC, who said: “Jon was a talented athlete who played senior rugby for Chester, and his energy, spirit, and sportsmanship left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
“His sudden loss has deeply affected our members and the wider sporting community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Jon’s family, friends, and teammates during this incredibly difficult time. He will be dearly missed.”
Tynedale RFC also shared a statement online, posting: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of former player Jon Devereux.
“Jon suffered a heart attack while taking part in yesterday’s Bristol Half Marathon. Jon had an infectious character which came to the fore when he joined the Tynedale touring party to Canada last year.
“He was a regular participant in our annual 7’s competition. He will be greatly missed by all of us.
“Our condolences go out to all his family and friends. Rest in peace Jon.”
Blaydon RFC also posted to social media and said: “Jon was a truly talented player. Though his time at Blaydon was brief, he left a lasting impression – both on the pitch and off it. He brought a contagious energy and formed genuine friendships that made a real difference to those around him.
“We are all deeply heartbroken by this loss. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Jon’s family, friends, and to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in Peace, Jon Dev.”
Morpeth Rugby Football Club also said: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of former player Jon Devereux, at the age of just 28.
“Jon was a valued member of our club, representing both the Reivers and the 1st XV during the 2019-20 season. He went on to play for Blaydon and Tynedale, continuing to bring his passion and talent to every team he joined.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Jon’s family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be remembered fondly both on and off the pitch.”
Others have shared their condolences online. One person said: “Known Jon since high school he was in all my classes and form going through high school! He was such a lovely guy! I can’t believe this!”.
Another person said: “Known Jon since primary school was a lovely lad, sending my condolences to his family and friends”.
A third said: “This is truly such sad news. So sorry for his family. Our thoughts are with them. Such a wonderful young man.”
Others said: “Thoughts and prayers to family and friends. R.I.P” and “Condolences to all family and friends from the Jon’s family”.
Other rugby clubs also shared messages: “Sending all of our deepest condolences from your friends at Congleton RUFC” and :Condolences from everyone here at Ponteland. Thinking of Jon’s family and the whole club at this time.”
A spokesperson for Great Western Air Ambulance Charity said: “Whilst providing emergency medical cover at the Great Bristol Run on Sunday 11 May, our critical care crew were called to provide immediate assistance to a patient who sadly collapsed at the event.
“A Critical Care Doctor and Specialist Paramedic treated the patient at the scene, before travelling with them to hospital.
“We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the patient’s family and friends and we would like to thank the two off-duty nurses and ambulance technician who assisted in the early moments.”