MANY tributes have been paid to David Staines, a founder member and longstanding coach at Thurrock Harriers Athletics Club, who died on Tuesday.

Mr Staines' health had declined over recent months and he died at home with his partner Ann and daughter Naomi by his side.

A primary school teacher of many years in Thurrock, and later headteacher, David influenced many young teachers' and pupils' lives.

As a high level coach and past chairman at Harriers, David made the club stronger through his expertise and guidance and legendary commitment to the club for over 60 years.

Only finishing his last 3000m steeplechase race in his mid 60's for the club, David focused mainly on coaching distance athletes and advising in Essex Athletics.

His passion was to promote and support distance running in Thurrock and Essex and will be remembered by so many people in athletics and the running fraternity.

David was also known by many as a swimming teacher at Blackshots pool.

As well as his partner Ann and daughter Naomi, he leaves two sons, Jon and Martyn.

Thurrock Harriers have opened a book of remembrance, which already features many tributes. You can read them, and contributre your own comment, via this link