Diving champion Tom Daley's father dies at age 40

England's Tom Daley dives to win the gold medal in the men's 10m platform diving final during the Commonwealth Games at the Dr. S.P. Mukherjee Aquatics Centre in New Delhi. Photo: AP.

Robert Daley, father of British diving champion Tom Daley, has died of brain cancer at age 40.

Robert Daley, who became a familiar figure poolside supporting his son, died “peacefully” late Friday night with Tom by his side, a statement from British Swimming says.

Tom, who became the youngest diver at age 15 to win a world title in men’s platform in 2010, tweeted on Saturday- “If I could be half the dad that my dad was to me then that would be my best achievement! I love you! Xx”.

His father was first diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2006.