Teenage footballer Jamie Skinner’s funeral held

THE funeral of teenage footballer Jamie Skinner, who died after collapsing on the pitch during a match, has taken place.

Jamie Skinner died after collapsing on the pitch. Picture: Contributed

Jamie Skinner, 13, was playing for Edinburgh-based Tynecastle FC against Spartans FC when he collapsed on the Saughton Astro pitch in the city on December 22.

His funeral was held at Craigmillar Castle Park Cemetery in Edinburgh today.

Tynecastle FC posted on Twitter: “Fantastic turn out for Jamie Skinner funeral today, he’ll not be forgotten. Rest in Peace Jamie from all at Tynecastle.”

The teenager was a member of the Hearts U14 squad for the first half of this season before moving to Tynecastle FC.

A statement released by Tynecastle FC after his death said: “Although Jamie was new to our Tynecastle family, he had up until recently been playing for Hearts. He was a prospect that undoubtedly would have had a bright future in the game.

“No words can fully express our grief and dismay at seeing this happen. We can only pass on all our thoughts and prayers to friends and family and hope they will get some strength from the outpouring of love and support from everyone.”

The death came hours after Hibernian player David Paul, 18, died in his sleep.