Derek Redmond’s father – who memorably helped his distraught son over the finish line at the 1992 Olympics – has died aged 81.

In one of the most poignant Olympic moments, he ran on to the track after Redmond tore his hamstring after a few hundred metres.

The British sprinter fell to the floor in pain and disappointment, but as the other runners finished, he got up and started hopping around the track with gritted teeth.

Jim Redmond climbed down from the stands, shook off the protests of the stewards and wrapped his arm around his tearful son and the pair crossed the line together.

The runner was hoping for a medal in the 400m after clocking the fastest time in his heat, but his dream ended in that semi-final in Barcelona.

Speaking after the race, Jim Redmond told reporters: “Whatever happened he had to finish, and I was there to help him finish.

“I intended to go over the line with him. We started this career together, I think we should finish it together.”

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The Olympics Twitter account reposted the clip and added: “Our thoughts are with Derek Redmond and his family following the death of his father, Jim.

“Together, they brought us one of the most inspirational moments in Olympic history.”

Former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies, who used to be married to Derek Redmond, tweeted on Monday: “Yesterday my ex father-in-law, Grace & Elliott’s granddad Jim Redmond gently passed away to that great running track in the sky.

“No dad could have been more supportive or a better husband to Jenny. He will be sadly missed x.”

US sprinting legend Michael Johnson tweeted: “I remember this so clearly.

“The love and support Derek’s dad had for his son was on full display in front of the world in that difficult moment. Condolences to Derek and his family.”

Team GB also paid tribute and said the father and son’s Olympic moment would “never be forgotten”.

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