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Motorcyclist and Army fundraiser Martin McConnell dies at speed event

Kryssie Chittenden Martin McConnell on a motorcycleKryssie Chittenden
Martin McConnell, pictured at the event on Sunday, was nominated for a Pride of Britain award in 2018

An Army veteran and charity fundraiser has died at a car and motorcycle event where riders attempt to reach 200mph.

Martin McConnell died at Tibenham Airfield near Long Stratton in Norfolk on Sunday morning.

He was due to ride on a half-mile strip of runway.

Mr McConnell set up a group in 2015 supporting veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and he was nominated for the Daily Mirror's Pride of Britain awards in 2018.

Dazz Rose, who was Mr McConnell's crew chief for the event, said in a statement he was "larger than life" and "gave so much to others".

Evelyn Simak/Geograph Tibenham AirfieldEvelyn Simak/Geograph
Police and ambulance staff were called to Tibenham Airfield in Norfolk on Sunday morning

"Martin's racing was one of his ways of dealing with his PTSD whilst also raising money and awareness for other veterans suffering from the same condition," said Mr Rose, team owner at Suzuki Turbo Racing.

"His loss is immeasurable and we are totally devastated and heartbroken to have lost one of our racing family and a man we were so proud to call our friend."

Mr McConnell, who served with the Royal Corps of Transport, founded ExForces PTSD - raising money for military charities and funding holidays for families affected by the condition.

'Tragic'

Terminal Velocity Events was the organiser on Sunday, and its website says it specialises in providing a "safe, secure" and "legal environment" for people wanting to drive their vehicle as "fast as you can".

In a statement shared on social media, company director Matthew Flynn said his "thoughts and prayers are with all Martin's friends and family".

Norfolk Gliding Club, which owns and operates the airfield, said: "The club wishes to offer its condolences to the family and friends of the rider involved in the tragic incident on Sunday."

Norfolk Police said it was called at 10:54 BST to assist ambulance staff with what it called a single-vehicle collision.

The force said a file would be prepared for the Health and Safety Executive.

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