The 2010 Dukeries Rally was overshadowed by an accident which claimed the life of 32-years old Martyn Lewis from Kerry near Newtown in mid Wales.
Martyn was competing with his brother Richard in their Vauxhall Nova when, on the seventh of the ten special stages, the car rolled and hit a tree. The emergency services were on the scene very quickly but there was nothing that could be done for him. Richard was taken to hospital for checks and was released the following morning.
Dukeries Rally Clerk of the Course Bob Draper said, ‘Our thoughts are with Martyn’s family at this time and I think it is because accidents of this magnitude in rallying are so rare that everyone involved is so upset.’
The stage on which the accident occurred was cancelled and competitors re-routed to the following stages and on to the finish at Southwell Racecourse. The Awards Ceremony was cancelled as a mark of respect and crews headed for home.
Dukeries Motor Club and everyone involved with the event offer their sincere condolences to Martyn’s family and many friends.