Derrick Edwards

Derrick Edwards, one of the main influences in maintaining the surviving 300 or so pre-war Astons on the road and racing circuits for four decades, has died, aged 83.

During wartime, Derrick worked with tanks, developing a strong engineering acumen, which he later put to good use when he established a repair workshop.

One of his first customers was Connaught driver Leslie Marr, for whom he was soon fettling race cars. A life member of AMOC, he formed two significant AM firms, firstly Morntane Engineering and later Ecurie Bertelli.

Derrick raced, too, and for 30 years was mainly seen at the wheel of the Ulster CMC614. He suffered a major stoke in 1992, a year after his 36th St John Horsfall race.

A charismatic man, his generosity and kindess always touched those who met him. He is survived by his wife Pamela and two children, Michele and Justin. JR