A helping hand from Hines

Sir,

It was sad to hear of the passing of Martin Hines. My little story begins with our epic trip to the Danish Grand Prix at Jyllandsringen in the summer of 1980.

We boarded the ferry at Harwich with Stirling Moss and the Audi team – and the Hells Angels bound for a rock concert at Roskilde.

At first practice we had the nose frame damaged on our Jamun Formula Ford. “You boys have got trouble,” said Martin. “No problem, I’ll get my lads to weld it up for you.” They dropped everything to get the job done. After a few Tuborgs with them in the marquee following the race they invited us to the local Kro in Silkeborg. Imagine our surprise when the Hines crew appeared at the windows after shinning up the drainpipe in dinner suits with the arms and legs cut off their outfits. The waitresses didn’t bat an eyelid.

Sadly missed, a great friend to all.

David Naylor, St Neots, Cambs