Athletics: Todd Bennett has passed away after a six-month battle with cancer
Olympic silver medallist Todd Bennett has sadly died at the age of 51, having been battling with cancer.
Last Updated: 17/07/13 11:55am
Bennett had been working as a coach and team manager for Southampton Athletic, who released a statement confirming the news.
It read: "We are very sad to announce that Todd Bennett has passed away at home after a six month battle with cancer.
"Todd was dedicated to the sport of athletics during his life as an athlete, coach and team manager, and was an inspiration to a huge number of young athletes and school children, who he coached and supported.
"Todd had considerable success as an athlete and was part of a successful era in British athletics, and 400m running in particular.
"Following his retirement as an athlete he encouraged many to take up and participate in the sport he loved. His wife Vanessa and children Aaron and Daena will miss him dearly."
Silver in Los Angeles
Bennett, who was born in Southampton, teamed up with Kriss Akabusi, Garry Cook and Philip Brown to win silver in the 4x400m relay at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984.
He won the European Indoor championship twice at the same distance and took silver in the 1985 World Indoor Championships, also breaking the world indoor record that year with a time of 45.56.
Bennett's son Aaron wrote on Twitter: "Today Todd Bennett crossed his final finish line. Cancer one of the few to beat him. Went out battling. Best father to wish for #sleeptight."
Former European and Commonwealth 400m gold medallist Iwan Thomas told the BBC: "It's just so sad really.
"I have lovely memories of him. When I first moved to Southampton I trained with him and then he subsequently became a really good coach.
"He was someone I looked up to, who always gave his all and who would never be shy to give any advice.
A gutsy runner
"What an amazing athlete, a real gutsy runner, and one of those people who was so proud to put the GB vest on."
His friend, business partner and fellow athlete Darren Campbell tweeted: "Thank you Todd Bennett for allowing me to know a special man, father, husband, athlete and friend. You will always be in my heart! #RIP."
