BRIXHAM'S Martin Browne could be out of rugby for life after suffering a serious neck injury in the Devon Cup final defeat by Barnstaple last Saturday.

The talented No.8 underwent emergency surgery at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth yesterday to repair damage to broken bones in his neck.

Browne, a father of two, was hit hard by the advancing Barum pack straight from the kick-off and took some time getting back to his feet.

Within 10 minutes Browne was substituted, although no one realised at the time how badly he had been hurt.

Chris Forster, the Brixham chairman, said doctors are referring to Browne as having a broken neck and hinted it could be the end of his rugby career.

"Martin only went to get himself checked out on Monday and it was after that he was booked in for an operation," said Forster.

"What Martin has got are two pieces of broken bone floating around in his neck, which is what the surgeons are going to look at.

"Having talked to the family I understand the surgeons will try to fuse the bones back together, possibly with a titanium pin. They have said to Martin's family that it is a career threatening injury.

"When he does come out of hospital he will have to wear a neck brace for some time, which will keep him off work.

"All of us at Brixham wish Martin a speedy recovery. We will support him in any way we can.

It was a bad day all-round for the Browne family as younger brother Kyle sustained a broken arm during the match.

"Kyle is going to be in plaster for several weeks while it mends," said Forster.

The injuries suffered by the Browne brothers took the shine off what was otherwise a brilliant rugby day at Astley Park.

A crowd of around 1200 paid to get in – plus scores of U16s who were offered free admission for the big match.

Pitch-side bars and barbecues did a good trade throughout the match and Barnstaple officials spoke warmly if Brixham's hospitality.

"We were looked after marvellously," said Barum's director of rugby Kevin Squire.