A TRIBUTE has been paid to a talented athlete who died of a heart attack at the age of 22.Robert Wood, known as Woody, a member of Colchester and Tendring Athletics Club, died last Thursday.

A TRIBUTE has been paid to a talented athlete who died of a heart attack at the age of 22.

Robert Wood, known as Woody, a member of Colchester and Tendring Athletics Club, died last Thursday.

Mr Wood who was an undergraduate in the mathematical sciences department at Essex University, was also an active member of the University of Essex Athletics Club.

He competed at a national level in the high jump and hurdles events, but was also a good all-rounder.

Peter Tanner, chairman of the athletics club, said: "Everyone at the club and the University of Essex Athletics Club are shocked and deeply saddened by the news."

He added: "Woody was a regular at the Garrison track during his four years at the University of Essex and those who did not know him personally would certainly remember him from his 'big hair', his love of all things athletics - particularly high jump and hurdles - and his adoration for Norwich City FC.

"He was a central figure in the fledgling University Athletics Club. Woody's home club was Ryston Runners in West Norfolk and he had also been a member of Thames Valley Harriers."

Mr Tanner said: "The man seemed capable of doing just about anything. He was an excellent athlete."

Mr Wood, who came from King's Lynn, competed in the British Athletics League premier division, which is the top field of British athletics.

Colchester and Tendring Athletics Club held a minute's silence at a meeting on Monday night, which was attended by over 150 people, including under 11s.

Mr Wood's funeral takes place this Friday at King's Lynn. The family has requested those attending not to wear black. The Colchester athletics club is providing free minibus transport to the funeral, contact 01206 511010 for more information.