A NEWPORT Harriers coach who trained hundreds of athletes, some to European standard, has died.

Tony Lewis, 62, of Maindee, died on June 20 after only being diagnosed two weeks earlier with lung and liver cancer.

Secretary at Newport Harriers, Ken Goodger yesterday described Mr Lewis as someone who dedicated his time to developing athletes, whatever their potential.

He said: "It became his life. Even with the less talented athletes, he would try to bring out the best in them."

Mr Lewis first became involved with the Newport Harriers after going to the club to watch his daughter Sarah, then aged 11.

But after feeling that he could help his daughter improve even further, Mr Lewis started as a coach and remained in the voluntary role for the next 30 plus years.

During his time he coached hundreds of people of all ages in events ranging from the 100m to the 10,000m and in some cases the marathon.

Some of the top athletes he helped coach were Steve Davies who went on to run in the European 1500m championship and James Hillier, who competed in the 2002 Commonwealth Games in the 400m hurdles.

He also coached James Nasarat who competed in the 2000 Commonwealth Games in the 800m and Kathryn Sage (nee Bright) who was a European Youth Olympics contestant in 1993 in the 800m.

Mr Goodger said: "When it was known he was terminally ill, we had over 100 people come to a club meeting we had. Even at that stage, Tony was still discussing with other coaches about future prospects of athletes."

Mr Lewis leaves behind four children and grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at St Patrick’s Church, Cromwell Road, Newport on June 28 at 9.30 followed by cremation at Glyntaff, Pontypridd.