After the appalling news that David Leslie, Richard Lloyd and three others were killed in a tragic plane crash on Sunday, Lola Group would like to make the following statement regarding its close ties and friendship with David Leslie.

David was a familiar face at Lola and literally part of the family as he was married to Eric Broadley's niece (Jane). He was possibly one of the nicest and down to earth people in motorsport. He was just a fantastic guy, so knowledgable about every aspect of racing, from engineering to media work. He is totally irreplaceable.

David had tested and developed the B07/90 Sports 2000 car several times last year and was going to be an integral part of Lola's 50th birthday celebrations with his gorgeous Mk1 that he lovingly restored himself and which was a credit to himelf and his son Graham.

On behalf of everyone at Lola we would like to pass on our sincerest condolences to his family and his many close friends in racing.

All pictures Lola Heritage.

David in his beautiful Mk1.



David in action at the Silverstone Classic last year.