NEWS HEADLINES 2006	Added 5 January 2007

DAVID WHEELER

David Wheeler, the father of one of Britain's most promising teenage shot putters, Michael Wheeler, collapsed and died while watching his son training at Crystal Palace on 7th June. Wheeler, 43, who was a competitive thrower with Herne Hill Harriers in the 1980's and 1990's introduced his son to the sport when he was 11-year-old and was instrumental in helping to guide him to the level he has achieved so far.
More recently, 14-year-old Michael has come under the wing of former international shot putter Mike Winch and it was one of Winch's training sessions he was attending last week when the tragedy occurred. Wheeler senior, who travelled with his son to virtually every competition he took part in, also helped other Herne Hill throwers, including Jade Dodd and Briony Phillips.

"This is quite awful news," said Herne Hill general secretary Steve Bosley. "David took Michael everywhere and was a great influence in his athletics. As a club we will obviously see what we can now do to help and support Michael."

David's funeral took place on Tuesday 20th June 12.30 pm at St Stephens Church, Warwick Road, Thornton Heath, Surrey.