Tributes Paid To Talented Footballer Who Died After Being Found Injured In Market Harborough

Tributes are being paid to a talented footballer from Thailand who died after being found injured at his student accommodation in Market Harborough.

17-year-old Duangpetch Promthep, known as Dom, won a scholarship to the Brooke House College Football Academy last year and was captain of the Thai boys’ football team rescued from a Cave in his home country in 2018, after being trapped for two weeks.

Dom pictured with Dave Thomas, deputy head of mission at the British Embassy in Thailand, when his UK scholarship was announced last year.  Pic: Dave Thomas

The teenager died in hospital yesterday, after emergency services were called to the college’s accommodation on Northampton Road, just before 1pm on Sunday.

His death is not being treated as suspicious by Police.

Ian Smith, Principal of Brooke House College said: “Brooke House College is devastated to confirm the passing of our student, Duangphet Phromthep, known as Dom, yesterday in hospital.

“This event has left our college community deeply saddened and shaken.

“We unite in grief with all of Dom’s family, friends, former teammates and those involved in all parts of his life, as well as everyone affected in any way by this loss in Thailand and throughout the college’s global family.

“The college is liaising with statutory authorities and the Royal Thai Embassy in London, and dedicating all resources to assist our student body, as they as young people process Dom’s passing.

“Beyond that we are unable to comment further at this time and would ask for privacy and compassion as we continue to support the students in our care at this time drawing on the kindness and assistance of the Market Harborough community.”

Dom pictured with Dave Thomas, deputy head of mission at the British Embassy in Thailand, when his UK scholarship was announced last year.  Pic: Dave Thomas

News of Dom’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief in his hometown and on social media, with the temple where the Wild Boars team used to visit paying tribute to the teenager.

Dave Thomas, deputy head of mission at the British Embassy in Thailand, met Dom when his UK scholarship was announced last year.

He said: “Devastating news to hear that Dom has passed away in the UK. My thoughts and sympathies go out to his family. Such a tragedy after what he’d already been through. Thailand has lost a real talent. So sad.”

Prachak Sutham, one of the boys who was rescued with Dom in 2018 said: “You told me to wait and see you play for the national team, I always believe that you would do it.

“When we met the last time before you left for England, I even jokingly told you that when you come back, I would have to ask for your autograph.

“Sleep well, my dear friend.”

Leicestershire Police say officers are preparing a file for the coroner.

Emergency services were called to Brooke House College’s accommodation on Northampton Road