HUNDREDS of runners turned out to pay their respects to the man who came to be known as “King Arthur” after he died, aged 73.

Arthur Whiston, who was a member of Colchester Harriers for more than 20 years, became a club legend for his success in competitions and his dedication to running events across the city.

Preparation – event organiser James Plant briefs runners before the parkrunPreparation – event organiser James Plant briefs runners before the parkrun (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

He died tragically earlier this month when cycling in Argent’s Lane, Stanway. On Saturday morning, runners wore the green of Colchester Harriers and the purple of Running Colchester at the Highwoods parkrun in Arthur’s memory.

Underway – the frontrunners set the paceUnderway – the frontrunners set the pace (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

More than 350 people gave a solemn round of applause before speeches were given by Colchester Harriers’ Lydia Cunningham and Running Colchester’s Jenny Kaye.

Ready – an official keeps a look-out to see who is the first runner homeReady – an official keeps a look-out to see who is the first runner home (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

Ms Cunningham told the crowd how she first met Arthur in the 1980s when they met at their local pub, The Odd One Out.

Tribute – winner Angus Holford points to a black ribbon in memory of Arthur WhistonTribute – winner Angus Holford points to a black ribbon in memory of Arthur Whiston (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

Arthur’s success as a club runner soon made him a well-known face across Colchester and at competitions further afield where he enjoyed considerable success, she said.

Finish – Ram Osman takes third placeFinish – Ram Osman takes third place (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

“Arthur was a truly talented runner who won many races, including the Chelmsford half-marathon in the veterans’ over-70 category.

Time – first woman home Heidi Hogan-Steele checks her watch to see if she is on for a personal bestTime – first woman home Heidi Hogan-Steele checks her watch to see if she is on for a personal best (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

“As a true sportsman, he also devoted much of his time to coaching and was highly perceptive in understanding the aims of each runner.

Busy – runners congregate at the finish lineBusy – runners congregate at the finish line (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

“His running family was so extensive he ran regularly with Running Colchester – he became much loved and much respected by them also.

Tired – a finisher recovers, with the Colchester skyline in the backgroundTired – a finisher recovers, with the Colchester skyline in the background (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

“He exhibited integrity and warmth – he was a true friend.”

Companion – a runner is accompanied by his dog in the home straightCompanion – a runner is accompanied by his dog at the tail end of the course (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

Ms Kaye said: “Arthur was a frequent runner with us and Running Colchester – we called him King Arthur.

Sprint – a youngster finds something extra in the home straightSprint – a youngster finds something extra in the home straight (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

“He has touched so, so many lives and everyone here is evidence of how familiar you are with him and how much you loved Arthur.

“We loved Arthur so much and we just want to say, ‘cheers for King Arthur’.”

Tribute - Colchester Harriers paid their respects to Arthur Whiston on SaturdayTribute - Colchester Harriers paid their respects to Arthur Whiston on Saturday (Image: Colchester Harriers, with thanks)

Runners then made their way to the start line and eventual winner Angus Holford pointed to a black ribbon which he wore in Arthur’s memory as he crossed the finish.

Arthur is survived by his wife Pauline Whiston, from whom he was separated, his stepdaughter Nicola, and his step-granddaughters Chantelle and Max.