Monday 23rd December 1985
“B. Bira” (Prince Birabongse Bhanutej Bhanubandh) (71), Thai Grand Prix motor racing driver who raced for the Maserati, Gordini, and Connaught teams, among others, died. Extremely short sighted and always raced wearing glasses or special built goggles, “Bira” was considered to be a good driver if not among the very fastest. He was also an accomplished sculptor and his art works can be seen on the base of a fountain at the Silverstone track.