(Go: >> BACK << -|- >> HOME <<)

Southern 100: Two killed in race crash were rider and marshal

BBC Road closed sign, police van and yellow fencingBBC
The road has been closed for forensic testing

A Southern 100 competitor and a marshal have been killed following a crash in Tuesday night's racing, the Isle of Man Constabulary has confirmed.

The incident happened between the start line and shortly after the junction of the bypass with Arbory Road at about 19:00 BST.

Police have confirmed both of the people killed were male.

The remainder of the event has now been cancelled as a result of the ongoing investigation, organisers have said.

The road between Malew Street bridge and Ballakaighin Corner is closed for forensic work.

Det Insp Neil Craig said: "The area was well attended at the time by members of the public who were watching the races and officers have already spoken to a number of people regarding what they saw."

Road closed off with police van
The incident happened shortly after the bypass with Arbory Road

The Southern 100 Road Races organisation passed on its "deepest sympathy to the families, loved ones and friends of those involved".

Officers are appealing to any witnesses to the incident on the Billown course, or who have video footage of it, to come forward and get in touch with police headquarters.

Support is also being offered by police and staff from Manx Care for the wellbeing of anyone who saw what happened.

In a statement, organisers said: "Following the serious incident that occurred during the final lap of a practice session yesterday evening, the Southern 100 can confirm that the remainder of the event is now cancelled.

"The clerk of the course has taken the decision to cancel the remainder of the event due to the ongoing investigations and this continues to be the priority of the organisation."

Presentational grey line

Why not follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and Twitter? You can also send story ideas to IsleofMan@bbc.co.uk