David Purley

David Purley (1945-1985) was a British racing driver born in Bognor Regis, West Sussex, who participated in 11 Formula One Grand Prix, debuting at Monaco in 1973. Purley is best know for his actions at the 1973 Dutch Grand Prix, where he abandoned his own race and attempted (in vain) to save the life of fellow driver Roger Williamson, stricken in his burning car. Purley was awarded the George Medal for his courage in trying to save Williamson.

He sadly died in a plane crash in 1985, having retired from motorsport and taken up aerobatics. A fantastic and brave person, David Purley…