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Fan's wristband idea in tribute to bike ace
LEGIONS of motorbike racing fans left heartbroken after the shock death of rising star Craig Jones could soon be wearing a wristband in his honour.
LEGIONS of motorbike racing fans left heartbroken after the shock death of rising star Craig Jones could soon be wearing a wristband in his honour.In between the flood of messages of sorrow and support for his devastated loved ones, a groundswell has been gathering for a memorial to remember the 23-year-old, tipped for World Championship glory.
One of the most popular suggestions has been to create wristbands bearing his name and in his Parkalgar Honda team colours of red, white and black.
Fan Claire Johnson (20) is hoping to raise sponsorship to have hundreds made up in time for September 5, the next round of the World Superbike Championship at Donington Park.
Claire hopes to sell them at the track and via the internet in order to raise cash for the air ambulance and Brands Hatch marshals.
Craig, from Warmington, near Oundle, died after an horrific 120mph crash at the Kent circuit on Sunday, which left him with serious head injuries.
Despite attempts to save his life trackside and at hospital after being airlifted there, he died in the early hours of Monday.
Claire, from Scunthorpe, also set up a group dedicated him on the internet site Facebook – and more than 800 members had signed up in less than 24 hours, a testament to the passion he inspired in the sport's followers.
She said: "It is such a tragedy and has affected motorcycle fans badly.
"I am looking for someone to provide some form of sponsorship so we can produce some wristbands.
"These will be sold at the upcoming Donington race and will also be sold online.
"We are looking at holding a fund-raising event with all the money made from this and the wristbands donated to the marshals and air ambulance.
"I was watching the race on TV. It was horrendous when he crashed. It is awful to think about it
"I set up a Facebook group called Craig Jones, World Supersport on Monday, and within 24 hours it had 811 members. There are lots of messages, and people are saying how their thoughts are with his family.
"I've followed Craig's career. He was such an up-and-coming star. I am sure he would have been a future champion. The wristbands will also be a good way for people to remember him."
She also revealed that there may be a sponsored walk held around Donington Park with people wearing Craig's team colours.
Yesterday, his parents, Steve and Yvonne, who live in Northwich in Cheshire, and his girlfriend Karen Atkins spoke movingly about how Craig died doing what he loved best.
nIf you can help Claire, call her on 07791 244770, or e-mailclaire_louise_johnson@hotmail.co. uk or call Asha Mehta on 01733 588732.
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