The motorsport community is in mourning following the deaths of two competitors in separate incidents during UK events on Saturday 24 May. Vintage racer Julian Grimwade (pictured top) was killed while competing at the Vintage Sports Car Club’s meeting at Donington Park, Leicestershire. Later the same day, co-driver Dai Roberts died during a stage of the Jim Clark Rally in the Scottish Borders.
Grimwade, a familiar and well-regarded figure within pre-war and historic racing circles, had long campaigned the Norris Special – his 1934 Frazer Nash-based machine – across the UK’s circuits and hillclimbs. He was taking part in a VSCC race at Donington when the fatal incident occurred. A statement from Motorsport UK confirmed his death and announced that a formal investigation into the incident would follow.
Meanwhile in Scotland, rally co-driver Dai Roberts lost his life during a stage of the Jim Clark Rally. Roberts, aged 39, had a long association with the sport and was a popular and respected figure in British rallying. His driver, James Williams, was also injured in the crash and is currently recovering.
Motorsport UK Chair David Richards CBE issued the following statement:
‘Over the course of a single day, the motorsport community has been shaken by two tragic incidents – one at the Jim Clark Rally in Scotland and another at a Vintage Sports Car Club event at Donington Park.
‘Though these incidents were unconnected, together, they cast a shadow over the sport, and the community finds itself united in mourning.
‘Motorsport UK sends its sympathies and condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of Dai Roberts and Julian Grimwade as well as the Jim Clark Memorial Motor Club and Vintage Sports Car Club. There are no words that can ease the pain of such sudden loss. The entire motorsport community stands with them in grief and remembrance.
‘Our thoughts are also with James Williams, and we wish him well in his recovery following the incident at the Jim Clark Rally.
‘Motorsport, at its heart, is a pursuit of passion. The UK motorsport community have a deep and enduring love for competition, buoyed by camaraderie and spirit. Dai and Julian were deeply loved by this close-knit community and their commitment, enthusiasm and presence enriched the sport.
‘Motorsport UK is extremely grateful for the medical staff, officials, marshals, rescue personnel and emergency services who managed the incidents for their responsiveness and professionalism. Their collective efforts to remain calm in the face of tragedy, ensuring upmost care and compassion, is highly commendable and for that, Motorsport UK is very thankful.
‘As a motorsport community, we stand together in this time of sorrow. With respect and remembrance, David Richards CBE, Motorsport UK Chair.’
