A former Formula One engineer from Essex has died aged 56 after he was struck by a lorry.
Nigel Stepney was killed on the M20 near Ashford in Kent when he reportedly stepped out of his vehicle on the hard shoulder at about 1.30am yesterday (May 2) but was struck by the HGV.
The ex-Ferrari technician achieved notoriety when he became embroiled in the Formula One "spygate" scandal after being accused of sabotage and leaking confidential data to McLaren in 2007.
He was subsequently sacked.
According to the Press Association, his long-term partner Ash Naidoo paid tribute to his passion, energy and devotion to his daughter.
Ms Naidoo, mother of the couple's seven-year-old daughter Sabine, said: "Nigel was wonderful to know - larger than life and full of energy.
"Motor sport was his passion topped only by his love and devotion to Sabine and I.
"Nigel was a wonderful partner and a hands-on dad who was besotted with his daughter who idolised him in return.
"They loved each other's company and Sabine was his shadow - delighting in helping him around the garage. Even if Nigel had to be away from home, he would phone her every day."
Mr Stepney's career in Formula One included working with world champions Ayrton Senna - who died during a Grand Prix 20 years ago yesterday - at Lotus and Michael Schumacher at Ferrari.
Four years ago he joined Daventry-based JRM as racing team manager and technical director.
Speaking from her Essex home, Ms Naidoo reportedly said: "I am so grateful for the love and support of our friends and Nigel's colleagues from the world of motor sport, especially JRM."
