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A doctor who has been credited with doing for British motor sport what Sid Watkins has done for Formula 1 in terms of advancing medical expertise and facilities has been awarded the most prestigious award from the Motor Sports Assocation.
Kenneth Walker, who has campaigned to improve and change medical services in British motor sport for the last 40 years, was presented with the Prince Michael Award of Merit by His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent himself.
On receiving the award from HRH Prince Michael, Mr Walker said: "I've no
idea why I've been nominated for this. Improving medical facilities in motor
sport is an on-going process and not just the work of one person. This award
must, therefore, be seen as the result of a very fine team effort."
Walker, an eminent orthopaedic consultant surgeon, has been a volunteer
motor sport medic in Britain since the 1960's. In that time he has been
largely responsible for major advancements in medical facilities at British
motor sport venues and the improved training of event doctors.
Dr David Cranston, currently Chairman of the MSA's Medical Panel, praised Walker's work and put him on the same list of important as Watkins.
"Ken has done for British motor sport what Sid Watkins has done for
F1," he said. "I've always seen him as a mentor and everyone involved in providing medical services at motor sport events has looked up to him as a leader.
"Every competitor out there has also got a lot to thank him for. Ken will be
the first to deny it, but he richly deserves this award. He is a first class
guy."
