A FATHER-OF-THREE from Acton Bridge has been named locally as the competitor who died in yesterday's Chester Metric Marathon.

Trevor Cording, a member of Northwich Running Club, had been taken to the Countess of Chester Hospital after collapsing at the 26.2km race.

Fylde Coast Running Club, where the 50-year-old used to be a member, paid tribute to him on Facebook this afternoon.

A spokesman for the club said: "We have just heard the incredibly sad news that Trevor Cording passed away whilst taking part in the sport he loved so much, at yesterday's Chester Metric Marathon.

"The news is devastating for his wife Fee, his beautiful daughter of whom he was so proud, and his lovely twin boys.

"Trevor was a Fylde Coast Runner when we first launched the Club back in 2015 and was an outstanding ambassador for the Club and the running community generally.

"He will be sadly missed by many.

"Our deepest condolences."

A spokesman at Cheshire Police said: "During the Chester Marathon on Sunday, a 50-year-old man from Acton Bridge collapsed.

"He was treated by paramedics at the scene and was taken to The Countess of Chester but sadly died.

"The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner."

In a joint statement issued yesterday Chris Hulse and Andy White, co-organisers from Active Leisure Events, said: “We speak for everyone involved with the Chester Metric Marathon when we say we’re all deeply saddened that following a medical incident during the event today one of our runners has passed away.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with their family and friends.

“We would like to praise the marshals and the emergency services – in particular St John Ambulance, North West Ambulance Service and police – for their rapid response and care for the runner during the incident.”

Trevor had completed his second London Marathon in April this year, and he wrote to the Guardian ahead of the race.

"I'm a 49-year-old father-of-three from Acton Bridge and a member of the Northwich Running Club," he said.

"This will be my second London marathon having qualified due to a fast time last year. I am raising funds this year for the Alder Hey Children's Charity."