THE young father who collapsed during the Great North Run died as a result of over-exertion, an inquest found.

Kieran Patching, 34, of Bellgrove Court, Walderslade, was one of four people who died during the 13-mile race in Newcastle last September. He collapsed fewer than three miles from the finishing line.

Kieran had been training for his first Great North Run for nearly a year and, although his medical records did not reveal any problems, a post-mortem examination showed he suffered from an undetected heart disease.

Coroner Terence Carney recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.

His widow Julie said: "The inquest has been a long time coming and I’m glad it is something we will never have to endure again."

* Full story in Monday's Medway Messenger.