Just hours after Colin McRae lost his life, Subaru World Rally Team chief, Dave Richards, and his wife, survived unhurt when their helicopter crash-landed in Essex.

The couple, and two others onboard, were returning from the Belgian Grand Prix in Spa when they were forced to make an emergency landing.

All four occupants were uninjured in the incident.

Ironically,  Richards had received a call to tell him about McRae's death while flying in his helicopter to Spa on Saturday night.

Richards told The Times Online, "We were flying across when I received a telephone call from Ari Vatanen asking whether I had heard the news. He didn't tell me until I landed. He said 'just carry on and I'll tell you when you land'. It's unbelievable."

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