Woman runner aged 30 dies in London Marathon

A 30-year-old woman collapsed and died in the final mile
of the London Marathon Photo: PA

A 30-year-old woman collapsed and died in the final mile of the London Marathon.

The woman, who is yet to be formally identified, fell to the floor as she made her way along 

Birdcage Walk, near St James' Park, on the final stretch of the 26.2 mile course, the event's organisers said.

She was given medical attention by paramedics but died at the scene on Sunday afternoon.

Tests to establish how a 30-year-old runner collapsed and died as she neared the finish line at this year's London Marathon are expected to take place in the coming days.

A statement on the London Marathon website said: "We would like to emphasise that our immediate concern is for the family of the deceased. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with them at this difficult time."

The statement added: "We will not be releasing any further details of this tragic incident until next of kin have been notified and formal identification has taken place. We would ask for your understanding in this matter."

The fatality occurred with the finishing line only one bend away.

St John Ambulance said it treated 4,850 people at the Marathon today while 30 people taken to hospital.

The tragic death was the 10th since the London Marathon began in 1981. Five of the previous fatalities were a result of heart disease in runners apparently unaware that they had a problem. Four of these were cases of severe coronary heart disease.

The last competitor to die was a 22-year-old fitness instructor in 2007.

Prince Harry was among the cheering crowds as tens of thousands of fun runners and amateur athletes completed the 32nd London Marathon. Up to 37,500 runners set off through the streets of the capital to earn their medals and raise money for countless charities.