Former marathon world record holder Paula Radcliffe has revealed her father died this week.

There is no indication it was as a result of coronavirus.

And at what is an increasingly challenging time for NHS staff, the 46-year-old took the time to thank staff at Salisbury District Hospital for all the care they gave her dad.

Speaking on Instagram, she said: "Yesterday I lost the best dad anyone could ever wish for. The kindest, wisest, most patient and brave man who leaves behind so many people who loved him so much and whose lives he enriched. 

"He and my mum gave us everything we ever needed and so much fun and love. He was always there for me and the guidance and outlook on life he gave me will ensure he is forever with me. 

"Everyone who knew him was better off for it. Thank you Dad, you will always be in our hearts and thoughts. Love you forever. 

"Heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the wonderful doctors and nurses of Radnor ward Salisbury District hospital who cared for him with such warmth and compassion. And to all those selflessly working so hard to save lives everywhere. #myhero #nhsheroes."

Radcliffe's father was a keen marathon runner himself and returned to the sport later in life when he was trying to lose weight and had given up smoking.

Former world champion Radcliffe then took up long distance running aged seven and never looked back as she broke the women's marathon world record with a time of two hours, 15 minutes and 25 seconds at the 2003 London Marathon.

The record stood for 16 years until Brigid Kosgei obliterated her time at the Chicago Marathon last year, finishing in 2:14:04.