Hundreds of mourners attended the funeral of Formula 1 and IndyCar driver Justin Wilson who was laid to rest on Thursday.
The 37-year-old from England succumbed to a severe head injury after being struck by debris during an IndyCar race at Pocono last month.
Joining Wilson’s family and fiends at the ceremony held at St. James the Great Church, in Paulersbury, Northamptonshire were a number of leading motorsport figures, including three-time Formula 1 world champion Sir Jackie Stewart.
Mark Webber, who was team-mate to Wilson during the 2003 F1 season at Jaguar and three-time Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti were among the pallbearers.
A moving eulogy was delivered by Wilson’s former manager and ex-F1 driver Jonathan Palmer, who assisted Wilson through the junior ranks to F1.
“Today we have come together to say goodbye to a truly extraordinary man,” said Palmer.
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“A man who through talent and determination managed to be successful in his chosen career of motor racing but also a man whose wonderful character brought so much admiration and happiness to those around him.
“Justin was the innocent victim in a cruel twist of fate when he was hit by flying debris from an incident ahead. It still feels like a bad dream but tragically it is only too real.”
“He was a humble guy and he did not have a selfish bone in his body,” said Webber.
“From a racing side he was super accurate and very sniper like with his passing moves.
“It was very, very rare that he would make mistakes and I really enjoyed racing against him. I had a very, very good relationship with him.”
Following the ceremony a reception was held at the Silverstone circuit where Wilson’s career was remembered with a tribute video and speeches.
Wilson is survived by his wife Julia and two young daughters Jane and Jessica.
A trust fund has been set up to help support the Wilson family.
Donations to the Wilson Children’s Fund may be sent to John White Funeral Directors, 188/190 Watling Street, Towcester, NN12 6DB (cheques to “John White Funeral Directors, Donations Wilson”). Alternatively, these can be made online at www.justinwilson.co.uk/donate.
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