Tributes paid to motorcycle racer William Dunlop

The Skerries 100 motorcycle road race has taken place, dedicated to the memory of William Dunlop who died during a practice session in Co Dublin on Saturday.

The 32-year-old Ballymoney man died after he crashed on the race route, with his younger brother Michael riding behind him.

The Dunlop family name is synonymous with road racing, recognisable to most in Northern Ireland.

William was the son of racing legend Robert Dunlop, who was killed in the North West 200 in 2008, and the nephew of Joey Dunlop who died in Estonia in 2000.

Members of motorcycle racing community have been left devastated and flowers have been laid at the Dunlop memorial garden in Ballymoney.

William, who has a young daughter, had a distinguished career, regularly racing at some of the most high-profile events.

He pulled out of the Isle of Man TT just a few weeks ago to be with his pregnant partner.

On Sunday, the Skerries 100 races went ahead after the Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters Club said they had received the blessing of the Dunlop family.

A statement released on behalf of the club said the prize money would go to William’s family.

Fellow Northern Irishman Jonathan Rea dedicated his win at the World Superbikes Championship in Italy on Sunday to his friend.

Eugene Laverty also said he had the family in his thoughts, racing with a Dunlop #6 decal on his bike.

On the final day of the Irish Open, Portrush golfer Graeme McDowell said the motorcyclist's death was tragic news.

"It's such a dangerous sport, they stand in front of the camera and they know the dangers that face them out there, but it's in their blood and it's what they love to do," he said.

Also speaking at the Co Donegal golfing event, host Rory McIlory said: "I think it's unfortunate, what the family have been through has been horrendous.

"Everyone's thoughts are with the family."