First athlete to run sub-four minute mile Sir Roger Bannister dies aged 88

Sir Roger had been suffering from Parkinson's disease Credit: PA

Sir Roger Bannister, the first athlete to run a sub-four minute mile, has died aged 88 in Oxford.

Sir Roger with his record-breaking running shoes Credit: PA

Bannister, aided by Sir Christopher Chataway and Chris Brasher as pacemakers, achieved the feat by running three minutes 59.4 seconds at the Iffley Road track on 6 May 1954.

Bannister, who also won a Commonwealth and European Championship gold medal that year, went on to become a leading neurologist.

He was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2011.

Bannister became a leading neurologist Credit: PA

A statement released on behalf of Sir Roger's family said:

"Sir Roger Bannister, died peacefully in Oxford on 3rd March 2018, aged 88, surrounded by his family who were as loved by him, as he was loved by them."He banked his treasure in the hearts of his friends."