Police: Colin McRae believed dead

The helicopter, belonging to the 1995 World Rally Champion, crashed at McRae's estate in Jerviswood, Lanarkshire, shortly after 4:00pm.

A statement by the Strathclyde police said four people were onboard the helicopter, all of them found dead.

"We can now confirm that four people were onboard the helicopter, which crashed in wooded area, in Jerviswood, Lanark around 1610 hours this afternoon, Saturday 15 September 2007," the police said.

"The bodies were found within the helicopter, which is owned by Mr Colin McRae of Jerviswood House, Lanark.

"It is believed he was onboard the helicopter, however until formal identification has taken place, we will not be able to confirm the identities of those onboard.

"Police remain at the scene where a thorough search of the area continues. Air Accident Investigators will carry out a full investigation into the cause of the crash."

British newspaper the Sunday Times reported tonight that McRae's five-year-old son Johnny was onboard the helicopter and is also feared dead.

McRae's agent, Jean-Eric Freudiger, told the Sunday Telegraph McRae's brother Alister had confirmed that the 39-year-old former champion was the pilot on the helicopter.

"I have heard that it was his aircraft. He was in the helicopter," Freudiger said. "I cannot believe it was a helicopter pilot error because as my best friend and the godfather of my daughter, I know he was a very safe pilot.

"We have been close business partners and friends for seven years. He is the best person I have ever met in my life. I have to try and understand what I have just been told."