Photo by: Ben Lawrence
More than £120,000 has been raised for the family of co-driver Dai Roberts who died in an accident during last weekend’s Jim Clark Rally round of the British Rally Championship.
The 39-year-old lost his life in a crash at the Scottish asphalt rally last Saturday while competing alongside James Williams. The latter was taken to hospital in Edinburgh with serious but non-life threatening injuries.
Following the tragedy, competitors Damian Cole and John Stone set up a Just Giving crowdfunding effort on Tuesday to raise money to support Roberts’ family.
“We are raising as much as possible for the funeral/on-going support for Dai's wife, Louise, and children Jac and Mia. Dai helped so many people after they had accidents whilst competing, now it's our turn to help his family after the terrible accident on SS8 of the Jim Clark Rally last Saturday,” read a post on the page.
The fundraising effort has resulted in more than 1700 donations raising more than £120,000 with the total continuing to rise. Contributions have come from several businesses and the rally community, including stars from the World Rally Championship.
For those wishing to contribute click here.
The British Rally Championship has also paid tribute to Roberts and intends to honour the Welshman at upcoming events.
“Dai Roberts was, simply put, one of rallying’s good souls. His ferocious passion on the stages and quick wit and humour away from them will live on with his incredible legacy that will roll out the service park with every car for years to come,” read a statement from the championship.
Dai Roberts Max McRae car
Photo by: Max McRae
“The British Rally Championship extends its deepest condolences to Dai’s family and friends. The series aims to honour Dai’s legacy in the upcoming events. We also continue to support James Williams in his fight for recovery.”
This weekend Max McRae and co-driver Cameron Fair will carry special stickers on their Citroen C3 Rally2 honouring Roberts and Williams at this weekend’s European Rally Championship Royal Rally of Scandinavia round in Sweden.
“Recce complete. Next up, free practice and qualifying. We will be carrying stickers on the car honouring Dai and James. We will rally for them this weekend,” McRae wrote on social media.
Source: Autosport