Wife of London Marathon runner who died hours after race pays touching tribute

26 April 2023 , 12:08

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Wife of London Marathon runner who died hours after race pays touching tribute

The wife of Stephen Shanks, who tragically passed away just hours after running in this year’s London Marathon, has paid tribute to her “wonderful husband”.

Mr Shanks, from Nottingham, completed the race in 2 hours, 53 minutes and 26 seconds before being taken ill on his way home from Sunday’s showpiece event.

The 45-year-old, a keen runner, passed away en route back home from the race. The cause of death has yet to be confirmed. His wife, Jessica, shared her "great sadness" via a post on Facebook, on the page of Holme Pierrepont Running Club, the amateur club of whom Mr Shanks was a member.

She wrote: "It’s with great sadness, that I wish to announce the loss of my wonderful husband, Stephen Shanks.

"His passing was sudden & out of the blue. He was returning home having spent the day participating in the London Marathon. As you can imagine I’m absolutely in shock & devastated."

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Event organisers have also issued a statement, sending their condolences to his family and friends.

Mr Shanks celebrating after finishing the race (Facebook)

Mr Shanks ahead of the race (Facebook)

A statement from organisers read: "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, who was 45 and lived in Bingham, Nottingham, was a very experienced runner who had completed many marathons and finished on Sunday in 2:53:26.

"All involved in the organisation of the London Marathon would like to express sincere condolences to Steve's wife Jess, his family and friends.

"A fundraising page for the Multiple Sclerosis Society has been set up 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."

A tribute was also paid on the GoFundMe page set up in his honour. It read: "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."

You can donate in memory of Steve here.

Rich Jones