Scottish naval officer killed in Manx bike race

A SCOTTISH motorcyclist died after crashing during a bike race on the Isle of Man yesterday.

James Adam, 28, an officer in the Royal Navy from Prestwick in Ayrshire, died at the scene of the crash, which involved two bikes.

Traffic police officer Chris Bradshaw, 39, of Tamworth, Staffordshire, was taken to Nobles Hospital by helicopter, but died later. They crashed during a race in the Manx Grand Prix.

A joint statement issued by Isle of Man Constabulary and the Manx Motorcycle Club said: "Both riders were involved in a racing accident at Alpine Cottage on the second lap of the Junior race shortly before 11am. The race was later abandoned.

Chris first competed on the Isle of Man in 2004 and finished 37th in last year's Senior MGP race. James first competed on the Isle of Man in 2009, finishing ninth in the Newcomers race and 27th in the Senior MGP.

"The Manx Motorcycle Club extends their deepest sympathy to the family and friends of both men.

"The incident is now being investigated by the Isle of Man Constabulary."

No spectators were injured in the crash, police said.