by Thom Morris

Tributes have been paid to ‘forever young’ mother Sarah Bamberger, who died just hours after collapsing while playing bowls.

The 47-year-old passed away in hospital having been taken ill at the Ashford Rail Bowls Club, in Beaver Road.

The mother-of-one, of Royds Road, Willesborough, had recently become ladies’ secretary for the club.

She collapsed on the green on Friday evening and paramedics were called to the scene, initially suspecting a stroke.

She was rushed to a hospital in London but passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Club secretary Graham Williams said: "It has really been quite a shock.

"She’s been playing with us for two or three years and her partner Tony was always down here supporting her.

"She’s recently been playing in the county competitions and was coming along really nicely."

Mr Williams added: "She only took over as ladies secretary this year. I know people would think she was 28 because she looked forever young – people were always shocked when she said she was 47."

Sarah Bamberger died after collapsing at Ashford Rail Bowls Club

He added: "Sarah has a teenage daughter called Claire and when I spoke to Tony he said she’s been his rock at the moment."

When members of the club held matches on Sunday, a minute’s silence was held and the flag on the clubhouse was flown at half mast.

Did you know Sarah Bamberger? Leave your tributes below.