After the news back in April, that Richard Burns had undergone further surgery, I'd commented on how, after we'd found out about his illness, Jules and I had been keeping track, her interest in a fellow sufferer, as it were. Well, after yesterday's news on George Best, it came as a shock when my phone buzzed at 9am this morning, announcing that Richard Burns died, after slipping into a coma, having lost the fight 
Ian and I saw him at a Goodwood Festival of Speed, the guy being just an ordinary petrol head, happy to talk to whoever wanted a chat, and show off his driving skill. I remember in particular, the hill race competition, and how he put a lot of effort in making a good time, only to get to the top and handbrake turn the car into the carpark and promptly started doing doughnuts and burnouts 
He may never have had the flambouance of some of the other champs when he became WRC Champ in 2001, but he didn't come across as being bigger than his boots. Always willing to get in and work. More news can be found on the WRC site.
[UPDATE]
Personal memorials can be left for his surviving family on his website, and donations are being requested to Cancer Research UK, rather than tributes and flowers.
Yet another life cut short, (he was only 34 years old), by something that seems to affect more and more people as time progresses. As it quotes at the top of the page:
Alan, I found your site a couple of months ago when I was trying to find out news on Richard Burns' health. I'm an American woman who is an avid WRC fan and was saddened when Richard had to retire from the 2003 season. As no one ever reports on WRC in America, and the WRC site didn't give updates on it, I set out on a search to find out what I could about Burns' health. I came upon your site and have been reading it off an on for months now. Thank you for reporting on Richard Burns' passing and for bringing so much information to many of us who knew nothing of this disease before reading your blog. I'll continue to read about your various exploits and will continue to send healing thoughts your way.
Cheers!