London marathon runner, 45, dies on way home after finishing race | UK News
A London Marathon runner tragically died on his way home after completing the race.
Steve Shanks, 45, finished Sunday’s race in 2 hours 53 minutes and 26 seconds before falling ill and dying on the journey home.
The organizers of the event issued a statement expressing condolences to his family and friends.
A statement from the organizers said: “Everyone at London Marathon Events was deeply saddened to learn of the sudden death of Steve Shanks on Sunday April 23 while traveling home after competing in the London Marathon.
“Steve, who was 45 and lived in Bingham, Nottingham, was a very experienced runner who had run many marathons and finished in 2:53:26 on Sunday.
“Everyone involved in organizing the London Marathon would like to extend our sincere condolences to Steve’s wife Jess, his family and friends.
“A donation page has been set up for the Multiple Sclerosis Society in Steve’s honor.
“The cause of death will be determined later by a medical examination.
“The family have requested privacy and no further details will be released in accordance with their wishes.”
His wife Jessica shared her “great sadness” in a post on Facebook. She wrote: “It is with great sadness that I announce the loss of my wonderful husband Stephen Shanks.
“His death came suddenly and out of the blue. He returned home after spending the day competing in the London marathon. As you can imagine, I am absolutely shocked and devastated.
The fundraiser in his honor shared another tribute to Shanks.
It read: “Steve was an avid runner who was never happier than running anything from his local park run to the Bob Graham Round. But he was more than just a runner, he was a musician, knitter, and renowned quizzer with a vast knowledge of horrific pop music.
“He was a loving husband and soul mate to his wife Jess, cherished son and son-in-law and a dearly loved friend. He will be greatly missed and will always be in our hearts and memories.’
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
For more stories like this, Visit our news page.
