R.I.P. Kevin Ash

VISORDOWN is sad to report the death of British motorcycle journalist Kevin Ash.

Kev lost his life in an accident during the press launch of the new 2013 BMW R1200GS in South Africa yesterday.

He had been The Daily Telegraph's motorcycling correspondent for 15 years, and was a high-profile and well-respected member of the motorcycling community, with columns published in many UK publications as well as in more than 15 countries. He also ran his own blog ashonbikes.com

Tony Gallagher, Editor of the Telegraph, said: 'Kevin Ash was the doyen of motorcycle correspondents. Respected throughout journalism and the motorcycle trade, he was also one of our most admired motoring columnists and will be greatly missed by both Telegraph staff and readers. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family at this difficult and sad time.'

BMW issued an official statement late last night, saying: 'It is with deep regret that BMW Motorrad confirms the fatal injury of Kevin Ash in a motorcycle accident during a launch event in South Africa. The accident happened to the north of a town called George, 250 kilometres east of Cape Town. Out of respect for Kevin's family and friends, no further information is being made available at this time.'

Our condolences go to Kevin's family.