John Surtees, CBE 1934 – 2017

‘Figlio del vento’
this knight was called
by the motoring fraternity
from which he won all,
but he was never bestowed
a higher ranked honour,
that master, that maven,
the lord of horse power:
Championship titles
were his laurel-rewards,
perhaps no need
for the touch of her sword.

Donations to: Henry Surtees Foundation

The British Empire’s gone,
stop pinning medals
and tainted gongs:
Yes, do reward our fabled,
but please remove
the Empire label.