Tributes to tragic marathon runner

A close friend has paid tribute to an “inspirational” marathon runner who collapsed and died during Sunday’s London Marathon.

Claire Squires was described as an “inspiration” who brought laughter and love to everyone’s life by close friend Nicola Short.

Ms Squires, 30, from North Kilworth in Leicestershire, fell as she made her way along Birdcage Walk, near St James’s Park, on the final stretch of the 26.2-mile course. The finishing line was only one bend away, after 25 miles of the marathon.

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She was given medical attention by paramedics but died at the scene later.

Paying tribute on the RAF Association website, Ms Short said: “Claire is an inspiration to us all. She brought laughter and love to everyone’s life. She will be sorely missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.”

The RAF Association, which works to support serving and former RAF personnel and their families, said: “Claire was a wonderfully vibrant and energetic person, who was a keen charity supporter and loved by all who knew her.

“Claire’s efforts in support of the RAF Association helped to raise hundreds of pounds for our charity and that is something for which we will always be grateful.

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“In 2010 she climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and also took part in other fundraising events in support of the RAF Family in recent years.”

Ms Squires, a hairdresser in Market Harborough, was running for the Samaritans in the marathon. Yesterday, donations on her JustGiving page shot up from £500 to more than £14,000 after news of her death circulated.

Catherine Johnstone, chief executive of Samaritans, said: “We are devastated following the tragic death and are supporting the family through this very difficult time. Our thoughts are with everyone who knew her.”

A statement on the London Marathon website said: “The organisers of the Virgin London Marathon would like to express their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with them at this difficult time.”