Tributes to Ipswich Town fan who collapsed and died in stands during Championship clash against QPR
EMOTIONAL tributes poured in after a "lifelong" Ipswich Town supporter collapsed and died during a Championship game.
The match against QPR on Friday was stopped after a medical emergency with the crowd gathered in the Sir Alf Ramsey stand.
Ipswich CEO Mark Ashton tonight confirmed the tragic death of the fan and named her as 81-year-old Anne Austin.
He told fans in a statement: "Dear Supporters.
"The Club and I are deeply saddened to report the passing of Anne Austin.
"Anne, a lifelong Town supporter and long-time season ticket holder, was treated in the Sir Alf Ramsey Stand after falling ill during the Club’s fixture with Queens Park Rangers on Friday (29 December) evening and sadly passed away at Portman Road at the age of 81.
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"We have been in communication with Anne’s family to offer support.
"The players and coaching staff will wear black armbands for the away fixture with Stoke City on New Year’s Day as a mark of respect, with the deepest condolences of all at the Club offered to Anne’s family and friends at this sad time.
"I am sure you can appreciate this is a difficult time for Anne’s family and we all send them our love and support."
After Anne suddenly collapsed a blue blanket had been used to cover the area, as Portman Road's PA system announced the second half was delayed.
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She was treated by several ambulance personnel, some of whom were holding up a plastic sheet to prevent spectators from witnessing the tragedy.
Emotional tributes have since poured in following the news of Anne's passing.
"How sad though she died at a place she loved … thoughts for Anne’s family. May she rest in peace," penned one.
Another wrote: "I hope you rest in peace Anne, and your family can find some comfort in knowing they have the love and support of some 30,000 people around them."
"RIP Anne - our love, thoughts and prayers are with your friends, family and all fellow #ITFC supporters," wrote someone else.
"My thoughts are with the family and friends of Anne. Very sad to hear this news," echoed another.
"So sorry to hear this. Thinking of the family. I know that Ipswich Town Football Club and its supporters will wrap their arms around the family as they have us," wrote one of hundred offering their condolences.