Richard Burns in Portugal 2001
Richard Burns, one of rallying's greatest, has died. His Web site announced that the 2001 FIA World Rally Champion was diagnosed with an astrocytoma, a form of brain tumour, in November 2003, and passed away last night Friday 25th November peacefully. His partner Zoe, family and close friends were at his bedside.
From the outset Richard knew that the odds were heavily against him and yet he fought his illness with bravery and good humour. Having undergone both chemotherapy and radiotherapy he was able to leave hospital in summer 2004. For a while his health showed signs of improvement but then after six months it once again began to decline. Determined not to give up, he opted for surgery earlier this year. This alleviated some of the symptoms of his illness and enabled him to remain active. At Castle Combe in August he attended a parade of the rally cars that he drove throughout his career and was touched by the warmth of the reception he received. However there was to be no miracle and in recent days he lapsed into a coma.
The media, friends and fans are asked to respect the family’s privacy at this time. There will be a private funeral and instead of flowers the family would ask that donations be sent to Cancer Research -- the charity which benefited from the generous collections from those who attended PistonHeads' BTaP event last weekend.
Anyone who would like to send messages should address them to the memorials pages on Burn's site. The date of a memorial service will be announced shortly.
PH's deepest sympathies go to family and friends. Richard Burns -- RIP: you will be missed.
Picture courtesy Rallye Info