Claire Squires was raising money for the Samaritans by running the London Marathon. (justgiving.com)
Claire Squires was raising money for the Samaritans by running the London Marathon. (justgiving.com)

Claire Squires, the London Marathon runner who collapsed and died at the end of the race, has raised more than £50,000 for charity as news of her death spread.

The 30-year-old collapsed in Birdcage Walk, near St James's Park, on the last mile of the 26.2-mile course. She was given medical attention at the scene but was pronounced dead later in the afternoon.

Squires, from North Kilworth, Leicestershire, originally raised £650 for the Samaritans via her justgiving.com page before the race but since news of her death began to circulate that figure has risen to more than £50,000

She wrote on her fundraising page: "Hi guys as you all know I am running the London marathon it was just going to be for fun. But it's a fab opportunity to raise money for my charity the Samaritans if everyone I know could donate £5 that would be a great help and change lives.

A flurry of tributes and donations had been made on the site in the wake of the 30-year-old's sudden death

Rebecca Herity wrote: "Such an amazing girl! Miss you so much already! Beautiful angel xxx", while Jo Lovell wrote: "Amazing lady! xxx".

Kathryn John paid tribute by saying: "RIP you very brave lady. I used to work for the Samaritans - wonderful charity. You have done more than you know for them x"

Catherine Johnstone, chief executive of the Samaritans, said: 'We are devastated following the tragic death of one of our marathon runners and are supporting the family through this very difficult time. Our thoughts are with everyone who knew her.

"We appreciate all that our marathon runners do. It is with their support, commitment and fundraising efforts that that we are able to offer our vital service for people with nowhere else to turn."

Squires' death was the 10th since the London Marathon began in 1981, with the last coming in 2007.

A statement on the London Marathon website said: "We would like to emphasise that our immediate concern is for the family of the deceased. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with them at this difficult time."

Update: London Marathon Runner Claire Squires Raises More Than £250,000 in Memory of Dead Brother

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