Boy, 12, dies after being hit by a fence post at Non-League game

A 12-year-old boy, who was hit by a fence post in a freak accident while watching a Non-League football match, has died.

Oliver Croker was watching his brother play in the game between Devon & Exeter league sides Bradninch and Bampton on Saturday at the former’s Kensham Park in Devon.

It is believed there was a collision that caused the fencing to give way. A piece of material from the fencing then lodged in the boy’s head and he was airlifted to a Bristol hospital. Tragically he died from his injuries on Monday night.

A Bradninch statement read: “As many will have heard a freak accident took place at Kensham Park at the end of a football match between Bradninch and Bampton on Saturday 12th September.

“A young lad from Bampton who had been watching the match was struck by some fencing and was airlifted to hospital. At this time, it is unclear how the accident occurred.

“Unfortunately, the awful and sad news has broken that he has passed away. All at Bradninch are absolutely shocked and devastated by this tragic accident and our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Oliver.”