Runner dies after marathon

A RUNNER has died after collapsing at the finishing line of the Reading Half Marathon.

The unnamed runner, in his late 30s, crossed the line at the Reading Half Marathon at the Madejski Stadium and was immediately taken to hospital. Doctors were unable to resuscitate him and he was pronounced dead yesterday afternoon, the organisers said.

Meanwhile, a footballer has died after suffering a heart attack during a game.

Chris Ralph, 47, collapsed while playing for Chagford veterans against Topsham Town during the Devon Veterans’ County Cup final at Newton Abbot on Sunday afternoon.