His health had deteriorated since February after it was confirmed that a brain tumour had returned, five years after he was first diagnosed with the illness.

"Tom Daley's father, Rob Daley lost his battle with cancer yesterday 27th May at 21.35hours," the statement read.

"Rob Daley, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2006, passed away peacefully with his family at his side.

"His health has been fluctuating since February but he continued to fight until the last day, defying doctors' expectations.

"The family have asked for respect to their privacy during this very difficult period."

Tom Daley, who turned 17 last week, was with his father and on Friday night (May 24) wrote on his Twitter page: "I love you so much Dad".

The British Olympic Association (BOA) paid tribute to Robert.

"In reflecting upon Mr Daley's remarkable life, and the courage and strength he displayed throughout his battle with cancer, we are reminded of the indelible impact parents have on the lives of their children," they said in a statement.

"Indeed, it is Mr Daley's indomitable spirit that has helped lift his son, Tom, to the highest levels of achievement and success in diving.

"As Team GB enters the Olympic Stadium in London just over a year from now, we know that Mr Daley's spirit will be with us, and he will forever be an inspirational member of the British Olympic family."

Robert Daley followed his son's promising career around the world despite his battle with cancer.

He attended all of Tom's events until last year's Commonwealth Games when he was forced to remain at home to continue his rehabilitation after a tumour returned.

His determination to support his son remained, however, and he made a late dash to Sheffield with his family last month to watch Tom and synchro partner Peter Waterfield claim their first ever gold medal together in the World Series.

Before the final of the meeting Tom was pictured in the crowd hugging his crying father, who had been determined to watch his son dive at next year's Olympics in London.

Robert Daley wore a t-shirt that night which read "Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning" with Tom saying after the event: "I am his oil".

Robert was first diagnosed with a fist-sized brain tumour in 2006 of which surgeons were able to originally remove 80 per cent.

The tumour, however, returned last year before his death as he left behind his wife Debbie and three sons Tom, William and Ben.


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