A "cracking bloke" was killed in a tragic crash at the Southern 100 races.
He was one of two men who died after being involved in the Isle of Man incident on July 11, at around 7pm. Two other people were also injured and are receiving hospital treatment.
Tributes have flooded in for marshall Liam Clarke, 66, from Wigan, who died during the crash at the 1100cc Practice Session of the 2023 Southern 100 Races. Biker Alan Connor, 50, from County Meath, was also killed. The families of both men are being fully supported by specially trained officers and an investigation into the circumstances of what occurred continues with police.
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Liam has been described as an experienced marshal who travelled over to the Isle of Man, from Wigan, for the event and had marshalled across other motorsport events including the 2022 Isle of Man TT Races. Tributes have described him as a "cracking bloke" and "lovely man."
Alan was described as "an experienced Southern 100 competitor", known for his blue and yellow leathers and he competed regularly at the Ulster Grand Prix and North West 200. Alan was also a stalwart of the Mountain Course, making his debut in the 2003 Manx Grand Prix, before graduating to the Isle of Man TT Races where he recorded 36 race finishes and achieved a fastest lap of 119.304mph.
A spokesman for the Southern 100 said: "The loss of both Alan and Liam is felt deeply amongst the racing community. The Southern 100 Road Racing Club pass on their deepest sympathy to Alan and Liam’s families, loved ones, and friends."
Detective Inspector Neil Craig states, “I would like to extend my condolences to the families of both Mr Connor and Mr Clarke at this deeply upsetting time. Our enquiries have been ongoing extensively since Tuesday evening and we have spoken to a number of people who were present when the incident occurred.
"However, at this time, no further information is being released as we are still undertaking enquiries on behalf of the Coroner in order to establish the full facts and circumstances of what has occurred.
"Additionally, I would like to thank all of our colleagues from across a number of agencies who have been instrumental in assisting us with this investigation, and in also providing the necessary help and welfare support to everyone who has needed this across all parts of the community.
"As part of our continued investigations, I would like to again request that anyone who may have footage of the incident to please make contact with us at Police Headquarters on (01624) 631212, but would respectfully continue to ask that people refrain from speculating on what may have happened, particularly at this extremely distressing time for both men’s families."
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