ACU Events Ltd regrets to announce that Paul Shoesmith, 50, from Poynton, Cheshire was killed following an accident on Sulby Straight during Saurday 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.

Paul also operated his own Ice Valley Four Anjels Racing team and gave numerous riders the opportunity to compete at a high level in the TT races including many of the current race paddock.

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