Motorsport mourns the loss of Henry Hope-Frost

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The world of motorsport woke up to some heartbreaking news this morning as it learned of the passing of renowned motoring writer and broadcaster Henry Hope-Frost.

A staff member of Autosport since the early 1990s, who cast his impassioned, authoritative and also humorous eye on the sport with his own 'feverish' style, Henry was that prominent voice you heard at Goodwood every year, among other live events where he distilled his extraordinary culture and knowledge.

The 47-year-old was tragically killed on Thursday afternoon when his motorbike crashed into a car.

Henry is survived by his wife Charlotte and three young sons. Our thoughts are obviously with Henry's family and many friends at this tragic moment.

F1 world champion Jenson Button was among those who paid a warm tribute to HHF.

"So sad that such a great man lost his life yesterday in a road accident," Button wrote on Twitter.

"U could always tell how passionate Henry Hope-Frost was about motorsport when he interviewed you, it felt so natural like you were having a good old chinwag with ur closest mate. Sending love to his family."

Rest in peace Henry, you will be sorely missed.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.