Several thousand bikers turned out on the North Coast tonight to mark the tenth anniversary 

of road racer Robert Dunlop's death

A commemorative lap around the North West 200 course was organised by the legendary Ballymoney racer’s family on Wednesday evening.

Several thousand bikers turned out on the North Coast to mark the tenth anniversary of road racer Robert Dunlop's death.

Dunlop was tragically killed following a crash in practice at the event on May 15, 2008.

A 15-time winner around the 8.9-mile course, he is regarded by many as the best rider ever to race at the North West.

Members of his family were in attendance, including his mother, May, wife Louise, brother Jim and sisters Margaret, Helen and Linda.

Special certificates, provided by Robert’s family, were given to participants upon completion of the lap.


Those taking part were asked to make a donation to the Injured Riders Fund at one of the collection points along the route.

Robert’s family also commissioned special limited edition commemorative badges and wristbands, which are available to purchase in the North West paddock this week.

The net proceeds raised through sales of the mementos will go towards the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance.

Kyle White