Crowdfunding effort raises more than £120,000 for family of late co-driver Dai Roberts

More than £120,000 has been raised for the family of co-driver Dai Roberts who died in an accident during last weekend’s Jim Clark Rally round of the British Rally Championship.

The 39-year-old lost his life in a crash at the Scottish asphalt rally last Saturday while competing alongside James Williams. The latter was taken to hospital in Edinburgh with serious but non-life threatening injuries.

Following the tragedy, competitors Damian Cole and John Stone set up a Just Giving crowdfunding effort on Tuesday to raise money to support Roberts’ family.

“We are raising as much as possible for the funeral/on-going support for Dai’s wife, Louise, and children Jac and Mia. Dai helped so many people after they had accidents whilst competing, now it’s our turn to help his family after the terrible accident on SS8 of the Jim Clark Rally last Saturday,” read a post on the page.

The fundraising effort has resulted in more than 1700 donations raising more than £120,000 with the total continuing to rise. Contributions have come from several businesses and the rally community, including stars from the World Rally Championship.

For those wishing to contribute click here.

The British Rally Championship has also paid tribute to Roberts and intends to honour the Welshman at upcoming events.

“Dai Roberts was, simply put, one of rallying’s good souls. His ferocious passion on the stages and quick wit and humour away from them will live on with his incredible legacy that will roll out the service park with every car for years to come,” read a statement from the championship.

“The British Rally Championship extends its deepest condolences to Dai’s family and friends. The series aims to honour Dai’s legacy in the upcoming events. We also continue to support James Williams in his fight for recovery.”

This weekend Max McRae and co-driver Cameron Fair will carry special stickers on their Citroen C3 Rally2 honouring Roberts and Williams at this weekend’s European Rally Championship Royal Rally of Scandinavia round in Sweden.

“Recce complete. Next up, free practice and qualifying. We will be carrying stickers on the car honouring Dai and James. We will rally for them this weekend,” McRae wrote on social media.

An update regarding the condition of Williams has been released today, confirming the driver has undergone a successful surgery and remains in a stable condition.

“Our hearts are with the Roberts family. Dai was a deeply loved member of our rallying family and the rallying community across the world. He was not only a co-driver to James, but a best friend, a pivotal part of our family-run team, and a loving and devoted husband and father. His warmth, humour and passion touched everyone who knew him and love that transcended motorsport,” a team statement read.

“Our love and full support are with Louise, Mike and family and everyone who was lucky enough to know and love Dai. He will always be with us in our hearts and in our stories. We will all step-up for the Roberts family, the way Dai always showed up for so many on so many occasions.

“After the tragic incident on Saturday, James was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. His injuries were critical but not life-threatening. He has received incredible care from the emergency services and hospital team, for which we are endlessly grateful.

“James has since undergone surgery, which was successful. He is stable, able to communicate and slowly gaining strength with each passing day. While there is still a long journey ahead both physically and emotionally, the trajectory so far has been positive.

“We are sharing your kind messages with James when we can, and they truly mean so much. The support from the rallying and wider community has been overwhelming and deeply appreciated by everyone around James.

“We will continue to provide updates when we can. Thank you for your continued compassion, respect, privacy and support to both families during this incredibly difficult time.”