TT 2016: Paul Shoesmith killed in practice incident

Well-known road racer Paul 'Shoey' Shoesmith has sadly been killed during a practice lap at the Isle of Man TT.

The incident happened on Saturday evening when the 50-year-old came off at Sulby Straight on his Superstock machine.

From Poynton in Lancashire, Shoesmith ran his own Ice Valley Anjels Racing Team and Aussie David Johnson was due to ride a BMW Superstock machine at the TT in the Ice Valley colours.

A statement issued by ACU Events Ltd on Saturday evening said: "ACU Events Ltd regrets to announce that Paul Shoesmith, 50, from Poynton, Lancashire was killed following an accident on Sulby Straight during this evening's solo practice at the Isle of Man TT Races. The session was abandoned.

"Paul made his TT Races debut in 2005 and had a highest placed finish of 15th on the TT Mountain Course in both the Superbike and Senior Races in 2011. He also achieved finishes of 8th and 11th in the 2008 and 2009 Lightweight TT Races at the Billown circuit.

"He achieved his fastest ever lap around the TT Mountain Course in today's Superbike Race, lapping at 125.896mph and finishing 29th. He won forty bronze replicas including the one he received for today's race.

"ACU Events Ltd wishes to pass on their deepest sympathy to Paul's family and friends."

Shoesmith was the second competitor killed on Saturday after Australian Dwight Beare died after an incident in the Sidecar race at Rhencullen.