Official Announcement.
Aintree Circuit Club is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Richard Peacock, our Vice President, long‑serving Director, and one of the most influential figures in British club motorsport. Richard died on Friday morning in hospital at the age of 78.
Richard, far right, on the grid at Aintree, with his great friend Ian Smith, briefing James Webster from Wallasey, who was the oldest holder of a UK Racing licence. Credit – ACC/Ian Smith. 1980
Richard’s connection to Aintree was lifelong. His father, Graham Peacock, was a founder member of Aintree Circuit Club in 1954, helping establish the organisation that would preserve motorsport at Aintree after the Grand Prix era. Richard grew up in that world and devoted his life to continuing the work his father began.
Aintree: A legacy carried across generations
Richard’s contribution to Aintree Circuit Club cannot be overstated. As Vice President and Director, he guided the Club through periods of change, ensuring that Aintree remained a place where drivers could learn, compete, and belong.
He founded the Aintree Racing Driver’s School, which became one of the most respected training centres in the country. Thousands of drivers — from complete novices to future professionals — began their motorsport journeys under Richard’s instruction. Among them was Eddie Irvine, who would go on to become a Formula One Grand Prix winner.
The BRSCC recognised Richard as one of the most important driver‑development figures in British club racing, noting his decades of service to Formula Ford and his unwavering commitment to grassroots motorsport. That commitment was felt most strongly here at Aintree.
Anglesey: The circuit he built
Richard’s vision extended beyond Aintree. In 1995, he led the creation of the original circuit at Tŷ Croes, relocating his racing school and overseeing its development into a licensed venue. His leadership culminated in the 2006–07 redevelopment, producing the modern Anglesey Circuit — a flowing, coastal track admired throughout the UK.
Anglesey Circuit’s own tribute described Richard as the architect of the modern circuit and a guiding influence for more than two decades. He later served as Non‑Executive Director and Patron, shaping the venue with the same thoughtful leadership he brought to Aintree.
A racer of distinction
Richard’s racing career spanned Formula Ford, Formula E Ford, Classic Formula Ford, and Historic Formula One. He was:
- Champion of Oulton in 1982 and 1984
- Formula E Ford Champion in 1986
- Classic Formula Ford Champion in 1994
- A respected competitor in Historic Formula One, driving machinery such as the Tyrrell 010, March 811 and Surtees TS9B
His achievements earned admiration across the paddocks of Britain.
Motorsport UK: A national contribution to safety and governance
Beyond his racing and circuit‑building achievements, Richard made a profound contribution to the governance and safety of British motorsport.
For many years, he served as a respected member of both the Race Committee and the Safety Committee of Motorsport UK. In these roles, Richard helped shape national standards for event organisation, competitor safety, circuit licensing, and training practices.
His work in these committees was widely recognised for its clarity, fairness, and deep practical understanding of the sport. Motorsport UK acknowledged him as a valued voice in the development of safe, well‑run competition across the country — a contribution that touched every level of British motorsport, from club racing to professional categories.
Richard’s influence in these areas will continue to benefit competitors long into the future.
A mentor, leader, and friend
Richard was a founder member of the Association of Racing Drivers Schools, shaping national standards for driver training. His calm, clear, and encouraging teaching style made him one of the most trusted instructors in British motorsport.
To Aintree Circuit Club, he was more than a Vice President. He was a steadying presence, a source of wisdom, and a link to the Club’s earliest days through his father, Graham.
A loss felt across two circuits and one community
Richard Peacock’s passing leaves a profound absence at Aintree, at Anglesey, and across British club motorsport. Few individuals have ever contributed so much to two circuits, two communities, and the sport at large.
His legacy is not only in the tracks he built or the Club he helped lead — but in the people he taught, the opportunities he created, and the spirit of grassroots racing he championed throughout his life.
Aintree Circuit Club extends its deepest condolences to Richard’s Wife, Ceri, his family and friends. We will honour his memory at forthcoming events and ensure that his contribution to Aintree — and to British motorsport — is never forgotten.
Details of Richard’s Funeral arrangements will be published when announced.
