Motorcyclist killed in crash at Lydden Hill Race Circuit, near Dover, was much-loved dad Stuart Donnelly
15:59, 06 May 2024
updated: 11:53, 07 May 2024
A motorcyclist killed in a tragic crash during a track day in Kent was a much-loved dad and bike enthusiast.
Stuart Donnelly, who was in his 50s, lost his life in the accident at Lydden Hill Race Circuit, near Dover, yesterday afternoon.
Police say the collision happened after he came off the track on a bend at about 12.50pm.
The air ambulance was called and paramedics rushed to treat him, but he died at the scene.
One of his daughters, Kayleigh Gibson, has today paid tribute to her dad, describing him as her “partner in crime” and remembering his “infectious laugh”.
“You've supported me through everything I've ever wanted to do in life,” she wrote.
“You've helped me so much and made me the person I know you're so proud of today. The world will be so quiet without you. My world will never be the same.”
Mr Donnelly, who is understood to be from Gosport in Hampshire, was riding a green Kawasaki ZX-10R motorcycle at the time of the crash.
Detectives have requested witnesses attending the track day to come forward and help with their inquiries.
They have asked for footage or evidence of the crash to be submitted to the Kent Police evidence submission portal online.
Lydden Hill managing director Hannah Bennett said: “There was an unfortunate incident involving a single rider participating in the No Limits track day at our circuit yesterday.
“The incident is in the hands of Kent Police, out of respect for the friends and family of the rider involved, we will not be making any further comments at this stage.
“Our thoughts are with the friends and family of the rider at this difficult time.”
Police say Mr Donnelly’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
KentOnline has requested comment from the track day operators, No Limits Track Days, about the incident.
The company, founded in 1993, runs track days at the Kent circuit, across Britain and around Europe.
Anyone who witnessed the incident is urged to call the appeal line on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.police.uk, quoting reference JG/043/24.
