Cork mourns loss of ace driver Demi

Cork’s rich motoring tradition last week lost a man who was a vital part of the rallying scene in the 1970’s and ’80s.

Demi Fitzgerald was a highly-talented pilot and successfully drove a succession of Minis and Escorts before acquiring the Chevette HSR in which he would truly stamp his mark on the Irish rallying scene.

The famous Fitzgeralds Bakery Chevette scored many wins driven by Demi, who was accompanied by a variety of co-drivers, including Paddy Kavanagh and Leo Whyte, who partnered him to top flight successes on both the Cork 20 and the Rally Of The Lakes, two of the most demanding events on the calendar in 1981 and 1982. Demi retired from rallying to concentrate on business and family life. He was a gregarious man with a fantastic sense of humour and he will very much be missed. Sincere condolences to his wife Valerie, daughter Suzanne, and sons Richard, Simon, Ken, Jason and Garry. He will be sadly missed.