PETER McEllhiney, the trainer of Warren Stowe and a host of local fighters, died last night after suffering a heart attack during Derek Wormald's failed bid for the European title in Birmingham.

At the end of the seventh round McEllhiney, who was working as Wormald's chief second, crumpled in the corner and had to receive attention from doctors and paramedics.

He was rushed from the Aston Villa Leisure Centre to City Hospital, Dudley Road, where he was pronounced dead at 10.45pm. "Mr McEllhiney collapsed at the bout by the side of the ring and attempts to resuscitate him were made there," said the hospital's accident and emergency consultant Gary Ward.

"He was brought to us for further attempts to resuscitate him but I am afraid he died at the hospital. He had a cardiac arrest, but we do not know the cause at this stage."paid tribute to his deceased trainer, saying it was "like losing a best friend".

"It's just one of those sad things that happen," said Stowe.

"I was at the fight and saw it all happen.

"He was helpful, kind, the type of man who couldn't do enough for you."

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