Second Racing Dunlop Brother Buried

Both the First Minister Ian Paisley - who is also the local MP - and the Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness were in attendance yesterday at the funeral of motorcycling legend Robert Dunlop.

Along with the NI Sports Minister, Edwin Poots and some 5,000 mourners, they heard the rider described as an "inspiration" to many as the 47-year-old was remembered at Garryford Presbyterian Church near Ballymoney.

The racer died in a high-speed crash during a practice lap for the 250cc North West 200 on Thursday.

The father-of-three came off his bike in the 250cc qualifying session near Portrush.

Dunlop's bike appeared to seize and he went over the handlebars. He died later in hospital.

It is thought riders had been travelling at speeds of about 160mph as they approached the Mathers Cross section of the course.

Speaking at the service, Rev John Kirkpatrick, chaplain of the Motorcycle Union of Ireland, said Mr Dunlop was a man who pushed himself.

"We live in a world where not many people finish what they start, not all persevere in adversity or push themselves to their potential and this makes those such as Robert stand out from the crowd," he said.

The service was also conducted by the minister of Garryduff, Rev John Gilkinson - who are the same ministers who conducted the deceased's brother Joey's funeral eight years ago.

After the service Mr Dunlop was buried in the adjoining cemetery where his brother was laid to rest in 2000 after he too was tragically killed in a crash.

Robert Dunlop's son, Michael, went on to win the North West 200 race on Saturday, dedicating his victory to his father.

Meanwhile, as the funeral was getting underway, a minute's silence was held at the opening game of the Ulster Football Championship in his memory.

Three books of condolence have also been opened for Mr Dunlop in his home town and tributes to the dead motor biker have poured in and the organisers of a loyalist parade due to take place yesterday afternoon in Dunloy - at the same time the funeral of Robert Dunlop was being held three miles away at Garryduff Presbyterian Church - have cancelled their event in respect.

Dunloy Apprentice Boys were due to hold their annual church service in the mainly nationalist village.

But the Club President, DUP Councillor Ian Stevenson, said the parade, scheduled for 3pm, followed by a service at 3.30pm, was postponed because of the Dunlop Funeral at 4pm.

Mr Stevenson said: "Members of our Club are very saddened at this time at the death of Robert Dunlop.

"We extend our sincerest sympathy to the entire Dunlop family circle and as a mark of respect and to allow others to attend any proceedings we decided it was only fitting and appropriate that the annual parade and service was postponed."

(BMcC)