DECEMBER 9, 1996
Denis Jenkinson
DENIS JENKINSON - probably the most famous Formula 1 journalist - has died after a long illness.
He remained an active competitor and in the 1950s was regularly Stirling Moss's co-driver for the Mille Miglia road race. In 1955 the duo became famous for winning the event in a Mercedes, "Jenks" having invented a system of notes to warn Moss about obstacles up ahead. This was the beginning of pace notes which are now used in every rally.
Jenks remained with Motor Sport until the early 1990s - when he was in his 70s - he continued to travel to Grand Prix races and report in his own uncompromising manner. He was a great fan of the late Ayrton Senna.
Jenkinson's Motor Sport reports provided inspiration not only for thousands of fans around the world but also for a generation of F1 reporters.