Olympic triple jump champion Jonathan Edwards has paid tribute to the man who helped put North East athletics on the world map who died on Saturday. Stan Long, 76, from Gateshead, died from a brain tumour on Saturday night.
He had coached the British Olympic team in 1976 but became best known for training Brendan Foster, who won seven medals at major championships.
Mr Edwards said Mr Long was a "charming man" who had done so much for athletics in the North East.
Mr Long became interested in sport while attending the 1948 Olympic games in London and up until his death, devoted much time to training young people.
 |  He was a charming man and his death is a huge loss |
He was best known for training Brendan Foster, who held world records for two miles and 3,000 metres during his career.
Mr Long was admitted to Gateshead's Queen Elizabeth Hospital two weeks ago.
His family told BBC News that he died peacefully on Saturday night.
Mr Edwards, who lives in Newcastle, said: "You couldn't help but like Stan and be carried along by his love for the sport.
"He had a lovely personality, open and warm and was interested in everybody, whether you were a star or just starting out.
"He was a charming man and his death is a huge loss, for his family and all the North East athletics community."
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