WORCESTERSHIRE’S successful sidecar driver Phil Dongworth has died following an accident in a qualifying race.

The 43-year-old, from Stanford Bridge, near Bromyard, was taking part in the Southern 100 races in the Isle of Man this week.

During a qualifying session on Tuesday night Mr Dongworth’s machine was involved in an accident. He was airlifted to Noble’s Hospital but later died from his injuries. His brother-in-law Russell Townsend paid tribute to the father-of-two.

“He was a serious chap and everybody loved him,” said 45-year-old Mr Townsend. “I don’t know anyone quite as popular as him, he had a tough exterior but a heart of gold.”

Mr Dongworth was born in Worcester and attended Nunnery Wood High School. He left at the age of 16 and worked as a tyre fitter, getting his first bike when he was 17 years old.

“He travelled to work every day on his bike, in snow, rain and wind; he was always on it,” said Mr Townsend.

He later worked as a manager at ETB in Hylton Road and 11 years ago became a partner at WAS Autocentre in Bath Road.

His business partner John Luebke said: “Phil was outwardly grumpy but happy internally. He died doing what he loved.”

The mechanic married his wife Teresa 20 years ago and the couple had two children, 19-year-old Corin and Chloe, 11.

“He loved his kids, he just wanted what was best for them and was so proud of them,” Mr Townsend added.

“Corin is at teacher training college and he was helping her find a place to live with her partner Ed. He took Ed under his wing.”

Mr Dongworth got into sidecar driving many years ago, and last month finally achieved his ambition to get a podium place in a sidecar racing competition.

He secured second place in the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy. An official statement released by race organisers yesterday said: “Southern 100 MCRC Ltd are in the process of carrying out a full investigation into the circumstances of this tragic incident.

“The organisers express their deepest sympathy to his wife, family and friends at this very sad time.”

His sidecar passenger Stuart Castles, originally from Worcester but now living in the Isle of Man, remains in hospital. His injuries are not thought to be life threatening.