Ex-rugby star Terry Newton found hanged at home

The star, 31, played for Leeds, Wigan, Bradford and finally Wakefield before his career ended in tatters earlier this year after he became the first athlete in the world to be tested positive for human growth hormone.

Police last night confirmed the former Great Britain international had been found dead at his home near Wigan and there were not thought to be any suspicious circumstance.

In February, he was banned for two years by the UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD) following his initial suspension last November for failing a drug test.

At the time he was just two games into two-year deal with Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, but after the contract was cancelled the hooker was never to play rugby league again.

The tragic end to Newton's life comes only two years after his sister died following long-term heroin abuse.

In June, his autobiography Coming Clean was published, in which he described how he had begun using human growth hormone towards the end of his career.

The Rugby Football League (RFL) last night issued a statement expressing its sadness.

"We are deeply shocked and saddened by the news of Terry's untimely death," said RFL chairman Richard Lewis.

"This is a personal tragedy and our thoughts are with Terry's partner, his children and his family at this terrible time."

The player took over a pub in the Wigan area with his father-in-law following his suspension and recently spoke of his eagerness to work with the Rugby Football League to rid the game of drugs cheats.

Newton, a devoted father of two young girls, was thought to have become distraught after being told that his marriage was over.