Sir Jackie Stewart has paid tribute to Jim Clark, describing the Berwickshire farmer as "the man to beat" when he began his own Formula One career 50 years ago. The former world champion was speaking in the Borders at an event celebrating Clark's achievements.
Stewart, who shared a London apartment with Clark in 1965, his first year in Formula One, recalled their close friendship. "We were, in those days, called Batman and Robin and there was no doubt who was Batman and who was Robin," he said. He added that Clark would have been godfather to his second son but for the crash which claimed his life in 1968.
The event in Duns marked the 50th anniversary of Clark becoming the only driver to win both the Formula One and Indy 500 titles in the same year. Fellow motor racer Allan McNish also attended, saying such feats would be difficult to repeat in the modern era. "Those times have definitely changed," he said, but added that someone might be inspired to take up karting.
Former Team Lotus chief mechanic Bob Dance remembered Clark as "exceptionally talented" and "naturally talented", describing him as calm, collected, and easy to get on with. Stewart said Clark was a "very good friend" and a "great Scot".
The gathering also aimed to raise the profile of plans for a new Jim Clark Museum in Duns by 2018. Stewart said it "would be a good thing for Scotland, a great thing for the Borders and fantastic for Duns".
