Liz McColgan's fellow Olympic runner husband dies suddenly aged 56

10 November 2023 , 11:46

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Liz McColgan has confirmed the sudden death of her husband John Nuttall (Image: No credit)

Olympic legend Liz McColgan's husband, John Nuttall, has tragically passed away at the age of 56.

The athlete shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, revealing that John had suffered a sudden heart attack. Liz paid tribute to her husband, saying: "It is with great sadness and a heavy heart I write this.

"My husband John Nuttall died yesterday morning with a sudden heart attack. A much-loved dad, son, brother and husband. For those that loved John our hearts are breaking."

John was a long-distance runner who won a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games in Canada in 1994. He also represented Great Britain at the 1996 Summer Olympics and competed in several World Championships.

After retiring from competitive running, John became an endurance coach at UK Athletics. Most recently, he was coaching in Qatar as the head athletics coach at the Aspire Institute in Doha.

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John was the father of Olympic athlete Hanna Nuttall and Paralympic athlete Luke Nuttall and stepfather to Scottish long-distance runner Eilish McColgan, who shared a touching tribute on social media.

Eilish wrote: "It's hard to find the words right now... Our family suffered a huge loss yesterday with the sudden passing of my step-father John." She added: "We've spent the last 6 weeks here in Doha, with my mum and John, and so his passing has been a huge shock. We are still trying to process it."

She continued: "Me and Michael are doing everything we can to support my mum and ensure we bring John back home to his loved ones in Preston."

Eilish also mentioned the huge support they've received, saying: "There is such a huge outpouring of love from both Doha and everyone back home in the UK. It just reinforces how many people thought so highly of him. He will be missed by us all."

Many of Liz's followers sent messages of support. One said: "Oh my. No. I am so saddened and heartbroken for you and your families. John will always remain such a light and role model in my life. Sending hugs and thoughts Liz."

Another wrote: "I'm So sorry to read this devastating news thinking of you all." And another commented: "Very sorry for your loss. He was a great person and great mentor. He will be missed and remembered forever."

One fan expressed their condolences, saying: "Oh Liz I am so sorry, he was such a lovely man. I will always remember him with great fondness. Sending all my thoughts and strength to you all at this time."

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Darren Wells