MSA: Colin was a great ambassador.

Colin Hilton, the chief executive of the governing body of UK motor sport - the Motor Sports Association - had paid tribute to 'a great ambassador for Scottish and UK motor sport' following the death of Colin McRae.

McRae died along with his five-year-old son and two family friends when his helicopter came down close to the family home in Lanark on Saturday evening, plunging the British motor sport scene into mourning for one of its most popular figures.

The first Briton to lift the WRC title, McRae also worked to help younger drivers who were setting out on the careers, something which Hilton said shouldn't be forgotten.

"On behalf of the entire community of UK motor sport, we send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Colin McRae and those involved in [Saturday]'s accident," he said. "Colin was an inspiration to all who knew him and to millions around the world who knew of him. His energy, commitment and extraordinary talent brought him domestic and international success, while his uncompromising style and determination made him the hero of fans everywhere.

"Throughout a glorious career, that saw him rise from the grassroots of the sport to the pinnacle of the world stage, Colin was always a great ambassador for Scottish and UK motor sport. Since retiring from the WRC, he has continued to dedicate himself to the sport, in particular the development of the next generation of rally drivers and co-drivers.

"He will be sorely missed by everyone and our thoughts and prayers are with his family."