Michael Park trophy appeal launched.

Former Peugeot Sport WRC co-ordinator, Vincent Laverne has began an appeal to establish the 'Michael Park Trophy' ahead of this weekend's Acropolis Rally, the eighth round in the 2006 FIA World Rally Championship.

'Beef' was tragically killed on the final day of Wales Rally GB last year, when Markko Martin lost control of their Peugeot 307.

"The WRC world misses Park's joy of living. Many of his friends wish to keep his memory alive by creating a Michael Park Trophy," explained Laverne in an open letter addressed to his 'friends'.

"At the end of each sporting season, this trophy would be handed over to the co-driver who marked the season either by his results or by his general behaviour, or by a specific action.

"A selection committee composed of WRC personalities - an active professional co-driver, a retired professional co-driver, a member of an official team, a journalist, etc... - would nominate the prize-winner.

"The cost of this trophy is around 4,000 Euros. All Beef's friends - whether they met him or not - can help in the realisation of this trophy. Monies should be sent to Vincent Laverne at the following address:

"Vincent Laverne;
1694, chemin de Pin Vert;
F - 83330 Ste Anne du Castellet;
France;

"Or by Bank Transfer to:
Vincent Laverne;
Cr?dit Agricole Provence C?te d'Azur;
Place du G?n?ral de Gaulle - F 83330 Le Beausset - France;
R.I.B. 19106 00033 05387860020 65;
I.B.A.N. FR76 1910 6000 3305 3878 6002 065;
B.I.C. AGRIFRPP891.

"Daniel Grataloup and Denis Giraudet will also be collecting funds during the Acropolis Rally the weekend before the summer break. Should the amount raised exceed the cost of the trophy, the remainder would be given to Marie, Victoria and William - Beef's wife and children."