The organisers of the London Marathon have shared a statement following the tragic passing of runner Steve Shanks who was travelling home after finishing the race last weekend.
The 45-year-old was a passionate runner who undertook the 26 mile race in 2 hours, 53 minutes and 26 seconds before falling ill and passing away on his way home to his heartbroken wife.
Organisers have released a statement with well wishes to both his family and friends at this tragic time, The Mirror reported.
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It reads: "Everyone at London Marathon Events was deeply saddened to hear about the sudden death of Steve Shanks as he travelled home on Sunday 23 April after taking part in the London Marathon."
Steve was from Bingham, Nottingham and was a very experience runner who had completed several marathons before taking on the 2023 London Marathon last Sunday.
"All involved in the organisation of the London Marathon would like to express sincere condolences to Steve's wife Jess, his family and friends," the statement read.
A GoFundMe page for the Multiple Sclerosis Society has been established in Steve's memory.
"The cause of death will be established later through medical examination. The family has asked for privacy and no further details will be released in accordance with their wishes," the statement said.
Jessica, Steve's wife spoke of her "great sadness" in a tribute online, writing: "It’s with great sadness, that I wish to announce the loss of my wonderful husband, Stephen Shanks."
She said his passing was sudden and "out of the blue." Steve was travelling home from the event.
"As you can imagine I’m absolutely in shock and devastated," Jessica wrote.
The GoFundMe, which has already raised over £7,000, painted a picture of the type of man that had tragically lost his life on a day which marked so much fun for families and Londoners.
It said: "Steve was a keen runner never happier than running anything, from his local Parkrun, to the Bob Graham Round. But he was more than just a runner he was musician, a knitter, and a renowned quizzer possessed of extensive knowledge of terrible pop music.
"He was a loving husband and soulmate of his wife Jess, treasured son and son in law, and a much loved friend. He will be greatly missed and always in our hearts and memories."
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