Goodwood Marshals Club has today [Saturday 15 April] launched its new first-response rescue vehicle in memory of Rob Foote, who sadly lost his life at Brands Hatch in 2021.

The vehicle was presented at the 80th Goodwood Members’ Meeting at the Goodwood Motor Circuit after Goodwood Marshals Club received a donation of £59,109 from a fundraising campaign established by racing driver and Channel 4 commentator Alice Powell for Rob’s family and friends.  

The Duke of Richmond, Chairman of Goodwood and founder of the Members’ Meeting, Christine Applewhite, Rob’s sister-in-law, and Alice Powell launched the first-response rescue vehicle in Parc Ferme at Goodwood Motor Circuit with friends and members of the motorsport community in attendance.  

A volunteer marshal and scrutineer across the south of England, Rob dedicated his time at Brands Hatch, Gurston Down and Goodwood. Motorsport relies on the dedication and commitment that Rob personified, and the fundraiser achieved more than 1,500 donations with messages of support from the global motorsport community.  

Rob sadly lost his wife Rosemary to cancer the year prior and their friends and family decided to donate the fund to Goodwood Marshals Club based on their love of motorsport.  

The ex-training ambulance bears the orange heart, synonymous with Rob’s passing that is still found on many racing cars, as well as a commemorative plaque dedicating the vehicle to both Rob and Rosemary.  

The first-response rescue vehicle has been kitted out to the highest standard and includes a rear ramp, professional stretcher and brand new Holmatro cutting and extrication equipment. The vehicle will be a regular feature at Goodwood events and will also be available for use at motorsport events throughout the south of the UK.  

David Richards CBE, Chair of Motorsport UK, commented, “Rob epitomised the values of all motorsport volunteers, demonstrating dedication and commitment. The launch of a new rescue unit in Rob’s name is a wonderful way for the community to remember his valuable contribution to the sport.” 

Ian Houghton, Director of Goodwood Marshals Club, said, “Many of us at the Club were close to Rob and marshalled with him at Goodwood and other circuits. When the sad news of his passing came through we were devastated and it took a while to sink in. 

“It is an honour that Rob’s family and friends decided to donate the fund to Goodwood Marshals Club. I remember the morning when I received a call from Rob and Rosemary’s executor, Brian Angus, to discuss the options for where the money should be donated. Brian saw the potential in the club getting a new rescue unit and being a wonderful way to remember Rob and Rosemary.  

“This unit will be in the Club for many years to come, will support events across the South and beyond and be a very positive addition to motorsport, and serve as a fantastic memorial of Rob and Rosemary.” 

Alice Powell, racing driver and creator of the fundraising page, said, “I’m so pleased I was able to witness the launch of the new Goodwood Marshals Club first-response rescue vehicle. It is equipped to such a high standard, as well as showing the lovely orange heart, which the motorsport community shared on their cars when news spread of Rob’s passing.  

“It was also wonderful to finally meet some of Rob’s family and friends, especially those who knew him so well at this club. I am extremely proud to see the donations that were raised have been put towards something as special as this.”