Family of photographer killed in motocross tragedy left 'devastated'

Simon Mitchell, who was in his 50s, died when a rider came off his bike during a jump on the course and his machine crashed through a barrier made of bales.

A marshal in his 60s was also seriously injured at Sunday's event in Swindon which was later abandoned.

Simon Mitchell. Photo: Mitchell Family (Image: Mitchell Family)

Mr Mitchell, from Warminster, was taking photographs at the third round of the Revo ACU British Motocross Championship attended by 10,000 people when he died.

Paying tribute this week, Mr Mitchell’s family said he was "taking pictures in a place he adored".

His sister, Nikki Dancey, said photography and motocross" came before everything else in in her brother’s life.

"I think the fact that he was where he was, doing what he loved, I think in time that will bring us some comfort," she said.Bales on the Foxhill motocross course (Image: Freelancer)

"Foxhill was a big love of his, he adored that event. That was his place."

His family were "devastated" by his loss, she added.

Sunday’s event was abandoned after the crash at about 2.50pm.It happened at the end of the Premier Class Race.

Both men were behind a specific marshal point and not with spectators, organisers said.

The event, organised by Langrish MXC, was stopped immediately. The rider was not hurt in the crash.

Wiltshire Police and the sport’s governing body, the Auto Cycle Union, have launched an investigation into ther tragic incident.

The Foxhill motocross course (Image: Freelancer)

An event spokesperson, who has worked in motocross for 25 years, said it was "very rare in motocross" for a non-rider to be killed and that he could "not remember a fatality that wasn't a rider".

In a statement on its website, the series promoter RHL Activities said:

"Langrish MX Club, are saddened to announce the death of Simon Mitchell, a gentleman well known within the motocross community.

"The thoughts and condolences of everyone concerned are with Simon's family and friends at this time."

On its website, VMXdN Foxhill said: “The entire team at VMXdN Foxhill is deeply saddened by the passing of Simon Mitchell.

“Simon was a brilliant photographer, a huge motocross enthusiast, and an incredible supporter of VMXdN Foxhill from day one.

“Simon worked closely with the VMXdN team for many years within our different roles in the MX industry.

"Over the years, he has captured many memories that will be forever cherished. Many of Simon’s photographs are displayed across our social pages and website.

“His photograph was the original image behind last year’s Mike Brown Merch T-shirt, which he was incredibly proud of.

“Simon was a genuinely lovely guy who always had time and wanted to help others.

“We know he will be so sadly missed by the whole VMXdN Team and the motocross community.

“Our thoughts and condolences go to his family and friends at this very sad time.

Gareth Hockey, the event's promoter, added: "It is a massive tragedy. Simon was a popular guy around here."

Mr Hockey said his thoughts were with Mr Mitchell and his family.

"He had a very strong character," Mr Hockey said. “He was very happy. This venue seemed to be Simon's happy place.

"He loved taking pictures, he loved the sport, like we all do."

Foxhill, home to the Langrish MXC, is considered one of the best motocross tracks in the UK and has played host to several events.

The 1.5-mile long track is known for its challenging terrain, steep hills, and technical sections and features a variety of jumps, berms, and obstacles.