
There are precious few real gentlemen in the world today, and on Tuesday the third of March, we lost a friend, a mate and a truly gentle man in Tom Lunney.
A keen competitor, be it para-gliding, dog-sledding or rally driving, he always gave it his all. I was privileged to share some great times rattling around the back of the Brindies in the old Datto with Tom patiently explaining the ins and outs of road-book navigation while I sat terrified (not that I would ever admit it) in the silly-seat.
It was almost six years until I could return the favour and have Tom navigate for me in my first rally as a driver.
But Tom had been suffering poor health for some years, the gradual degradation making motorsport increasingly uncomfortable and his run in my car turned out to be his last competitive outing.
Late last year, with a freshly prepared Excel sitting in the garage, he was forced into full-time care whilst awaiting a heart-lung transplant. The following months took their toll until he finally ran out of late time and passed from this world to the next.
So pat Lexy for me Tom and join us in a black-can or two, you will be sorely missed.
Charles