A seasoned runner, Steve Shanks, who completed the London Marathon in under three hours, died while returning home from the race. The 45-year-old from Bingham, Nottingham had previously run several marathons, and finished the event in 2 hours 53 minutes and 26 seconds. His wife Jess announced his unexpected death on social media, stating that he was returning home after spending the day participating in the marathon. The Holme Pierrepont Running Club paid tribute to their "friend Steve", expressing their shock and sadness at his passing, and offered heartfelt condolences to his wife.

TCS London Marathon also expressed its condolences, describing the news of Shanks' sudden death as "deeply saddening." The organisation extended their sympathies to his family and friends, and set up a fundraising page for the Multiple Sclerosis Society in Steve's memory. The page has already raised over £4,500 in the first 18 hours. MS was a cause that was close to Steve's heart, as many of his friends have the condition.

Steve was a talented runner and more than that, he was a musician, a knitter, and a renowned quizzer with a vast knowledge of music. He was a loving husband and soulmate of his wife Jess, a cherished son and son-in-law, and a dear friend. He will be deeply missed but always remembered in our hearts and memories. Though Steve did not run for the MS Society, they too expressed their grief at his loss.