Motorcycle racing helmet
Date made: mid 20th century
Maker: not known
Description: 'Pudding basin' style racing helmet, silver with Springbok motif to front. Worn by South African Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (TT) competitor Johan Erik van Tilburg, killed at the 1948 TT whilst practicing.
Johan Erik 'Bob' van Tilburg was one of four South African riders who participated in the 1948 TT. During a practice session he crashed his AJS just beyond Windy Corner after colliding with Tommy McEwan's Norton. McEwan was not injured in the accident but Van Tilburg was seriously hurt when his motorcycle hit a concrete post. He was taken to hospital, but later died of his injuries aged 33.
Van Tilburg was the first of three fatalities at the 1948 TT.
Van Tilburg had served with the South African Naval Forces during the Second World War and was injured by shellfire in Tobruk.
Materials: not known
Object name: helmet
Collection: Costume & Textiles Collection
ID Number: 2007-0245
Subject tags : #TT&MOTORSPORT