A gym owner and bodyguard from Sittingbourne has died after suffering severe head injuries while working out.

Father-of-two Tony Leigh, 47, of Galena Close on the town’s Meads estate, was rushed to hospital but died after a six-day battle in intensive care.

Tony, the owner of the Flex Appeal gym in Tankerton Road, Whitstable, leaves widow Angie and children Charlie, 16, and Sam, 12.

Friend and Flex Appeal worker Matt Jones said: “Initially doctors didn’t know the extent of his brain damage.

"It didn’t become apparent until shortly before he died. Everybody’s just numb and in shock. No one can quite believe what has happened.

“Tony was such a popular guy and anyone who met him wanted to be his mate, even if you just popped in to buy a bottle of water.”

Known as Manchester Tony because of his roots, Tony was doing security work in Tilbury at the time of the accident on Wednesday, October 7.

He was rushed to Basildon hospital from a gym in Tilbury but died on Tuesday.

Health and safety officials are investigating the incident.

Tony, a competition bodybuilder and former soldier, bought the Flex Appeal gym 10 years ago after moving down from London.

Matt added: "I’ve spoken to Angie and she’s obviously distraught. But she’s got a large family who will help her through.

“Tony had a lot of good friends who will see she’s all right.”

Funeral arrangements have yet to be made.