Masterchef semi-finalist Matt Campbell dies aged 29 after the London Marathon
Very sad news
Matt Campbell, known for appearing on Masterchef: The Professionals last year, has sadly died at the age of 29. Matt was taking part in the London Marathon yesterday when he collapsed at the 22.5 mile mark and was taken to hospital, where he later died.
Before taking part in the event Matt had posted on Twitter saying it was his second marathon in two weeks, the first being the Manchester Marathon.
Matt, who worked in the Lake District was taking part in the London Marathon to raise money for The Brathay Trust in honour of his dad Martin, who died suddenly 18 months ago.
In a statement to the press London Marathon said, "With deep sadness, we confirm the death of a participant in the 2018 Virgin Money London Marathon.
"Matt Campbell, aged 29, a professional chef from the Lake District, collapsed at the 22.5 mile mark and, although he received immediate medical treatment on the scene from race doctors, he died later in hospital.
"Matt was a well-known chef who featured in Masterchef: The Professionals last year, inspiring viewers with his Nutritional Gastronomy movement and forward-thinking ideas. He was running for The Brathay Trust and in memory of his father, Martin, who died in the summer of 2016.
"Matt’s family today paid tribute to their inspirational son and brother, who was a keen marathon runner and had earlier this month completed the Manchester Marathon in under 3 hours.
"Matt’s chosen charity, The Brathay Trust, inspires vulnerable young people to make positive changes in their lives.
"Everyone involved in the organisation of the London Marathon would like to express our sincere condolences to Matt’s family and friends.
"No further details will be released and the family has asked for privacy. The exact cause of death will be established by later medical examination."
Our thoughts are with Matt's family and friends.