Player banned after positive drugs test

James Mortimore of Cleckheaton RFC has been suspended from participating in Rugby Union for two years after testing positive for the banned stimulant cocaine.

The suspension by a Rugby Football Union disciplinary panel runs from 16 December 2004 to 15 December 2006 and includes playing, training with or being a member of a club, coaching, administering or acting in any official capacity within the sport.

Mortimore, who pleaded guilty, tested positive following the National League Three North fixture between Cleckheaton and Darlington on November 6 2004. A further B sample also tested positive.

This is the first positive test in English rugby since May 2003 when a player was suspended for six weeks after testing positive for ephedrine.

The RFU condemns the use or distribution of prohibited substances or methods as defined or listed by the International Rugby Board and the World Anti-Doping Agency.

The RFU undertakes approximately 340 tests per annum within a robust drug testing system operated and co-ordinated by UK Sport and complemented by an education programme.

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Issued by Dave Barton, RFU Press Office, 07736 517610 davebarton@rfu.com