Tributes to businessman who died in rally crash
TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular business owner from Carmarthenshire who has died after a rally crash on the Isle of Man.
Mark James, who was 55, was involved in a single-vehicle crash on the morning of Saturday, November 10, as he took part in a Pokerstars Rally event.
During the 8th stage of the event Mr James’ Ford Escort MkII collided with a tree and he had to be cut free from the vehicle by emergency crews.
He was taken to Noble’s Hospital on the Isle of Man, before being flown to Aintree Hospital in Liverpool in a critical condition.
He was then moved to Glangwili Hospital last Thursday, but died on Monday morning.
Mr James’ death is a big loss to the motorsport community and in Nantgaredig, where he lived and worked. He co-owned and ran N&A James, a crane hire and heavy haulage business that has been in the village since 1954.
He is survived by his widow and two daughters.
Della James paid tribute to a “wonderful husband and father”.
“It’s devastating,” said Mrs James. “It’s such a tragedy.
“He was a wonderful husband and father to our two daughters. It’s a very difficult time for all the family but the support we’ve received has been amazing.
“He was loved by so many people. I want to thank everyone who has helped us. Mark will be missed terribly.”
Mr James was a member of Ammanford Motor Club, who have paid tribute to a “largerthan-life character”.
Ian Taylor from the club said on social media: “It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we inform you of the passing of club member and friend Mark ‘Jamesy’ James.”