John Lawton, with wife Lynda, just before he went missing in Greece

Family, friends, colleagues and fellow runners paid a moving tribute to tragic marathon man John Lawton at his funeral today.

They gathered in their hundreds to remember the 62-year-old South Cheshire man who died while competing in a race in Greece.

John, of Alsager, went missing in April during the 35km Taygetos Challenge, sparking a massive search and rescue attempt.

Cheshire Search and Rescue sent volunteers across to join family and friends during the 128-day search, while thousands of well-wishers donated funds to help keep the rescue attempt going.

But John’s body was found by chance by two walkers, he had been more than three hours off course.

A coroner ruled he had died instantly from head injuries after falling 200ft into a gorge.

Today, they gathered at Bradwell Crematorium in Newcastle-under-Lyme and later at Crewe Hall to bid him farewell.

John’s wife Lynda gave a passionate speech about the man she was married to for almost 42 years, calling him the “wind under her wings” and her “best friend”.

John’s son Steve and daughter Sara, and their families, were also present. Steve spoke to mourners about his father’s sense of humour, good nature and love he showed throughout their life.

Sara read out a moving poem and the service was conducted by Rev Robin Isherwood.

Members of John’s running club Sandbach Striders were at the service, along with Cheshire Search & Rescue and even Greek volunteers who devoted months of their lives to try and find him.

A family statement on the service sheet said: “Lynda, Steve and Sara would like to thank everyone who helped in the search for John.

“The wonderful friends who searched in Greece, the people who fundraised and donated so searching could continue, and everyone who helped us stay strong during the most difficult 128 days imaginable.”

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