A tribute to a talented fallen hopeful

Roger Williamson - the young British hopeful who was lost to motorsport in a fiery crash in the dunes of Zandvoort in 1973 - would have turned 76 on this day.

After starting his career in saloon cars in 1967, Williams enjoyed a swift rise through the junior ranks in single-seater racing, supported by mentor and benefactor Tom Wheatcroft.

As one of Britain's brightest prospects, Williams made his F1 debut mid-season at the British GP at Silverstone with March, but at the Dutch GP at Zandvoort two weeks later it all went terribly wrong for the 25-year-old.

Williamson hit the barrier on lap nine, the March 731 rebounding and sliding down the track, overturned and ablaze.

David Purely who was following Williamson stopped his car to help his friend in a heroic but vain effort, while under-equipped trackside marshals were of little help.

Alas, Williams died in the carnage from asphyxiation, depriving motorsport of a brilliant young talent.