Graham Nearn, the man responsible for the survival and evolution of the iconic Seven, died on October 24, 2009.

Nearn was instrumental in the sale and development of Colin Chapman’s Seven since 1959 and became its saviour in 1973 when he agreed to take on the manufacturing rights of the Seven.

In later years, while he remained involved as chairman, it was his son, Simon, who ran Caterham Cars on a daily basis until the Nearn family sold the company to a new management team headed by former-Lotus general manager, Ansar Ali in 2005.

Ali said: "I have the greatest respect for what Graham achieved with Caterham Cars and fully accept that it was his personal touch that made the brand what it is today. I know that, despite our involvement today, Graham will always be considered the heart and soul of Caterham Cars.

"On behalf of myself, my co-directors and fellow shareholders, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to Graham’s family at this difficult time."