Renowned shot putter and strongman Geoff Capes dies

Tributes have poured in for "giant in heart and spirit" Geoff Capes, the British record-setting shot putter and two-time World's Strongest Man champion who has died aged 75.

The former police officer was a double Commonwealth Games champion and represented Great Britain at the Olympics three times, but is perhaps best known for his success in the World's Strongest Man competition, taking the title in both 1983 and 1985.

The six foot, five-and-a-half inch Lincolnshire strongman's death was confirmed by British Athletics via a statement posted to their X account on Wednesday night.

It read: "British Athletics are saddened to hear the news of former British shot putter, Geoff Capes' passing.

"Our condolences go out to his family and friends at this time."

A statement from Capes' family said: "The family of Geoffrey Capes would like to announce his sad passing today, 23rd October.

"Britain's finest shot-putter and twice world's strongest man."

In addition to his two wins, Capes finished on the podium four more times in the World's Strongest Man competition.

British Athletics are saddened to hear the news of former British shot putter, Geoff Capes' passing.

Our condolences go out to his family and friends at this time. pic.twitter.com/IvgWq4X4bA

The official SBD World's Strongest Man account wrote on X: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of one of the greatest strength athletes of all time, Geoff Capes.

"Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in Strength."

Retired British strongman Eddie "The Beast" Hall, who won the title in 2017, shared a photo of the pair on Instagram alongside the caption: "One of the true legends of strength-Geoff Capes has sadly passed away today.

"Not only was Geoff a two-time World's