A DAD has paid tribute to his marathon running son who died of cystic fibrosis.

Marc Prosser, 29, of Southend Road, Stanford-le-Hope, was diagnosed with the condition at the age of four. He was due to marry fiancee Marie next year.

Despite the lung condition, he managed to complete two London marathons and three Great South runs, raising more than £3,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

In 2006 he won the Cystic Fibrosis Adult Sports Trophy.

Dad Mike, 66, of May Avenue, Canvey, said: “Myself and his mother Carol and brothers, Paul and Michael, and sister Maria are so proud of him for the way he kept himself fit.

“He was engaged to be married to his fiancee Marie next year and will be deeply missed. He had so many friends and will be missed dearly.”

Former Gable Hall pupil Marc, who was a keen West Ham United and Manic Street Preachers fan, died at Papworth Hospital in Cambridge on Wednesday, July 8.

Mike added: “We would like to thank friends and family for their support and any donations are gratefully accepted to Basildon and Papworth Hospitals.”

Donations should sent to, and cheques made out to, the undertakers A W Alden and Son at 29 to 31 High Street, Canvey Island, Essex, SS8 7RB.

Marc’s funeral will take place at Chadwell St Mary Cemetery on Thursday, July 23, at 12.45pm.