Hopes for Ryan Farquhar's '˜speedy recovery' following NW 200 crash

Ryan Farquhar was taken to hospital by a PSNI helicopter following a crash at the North West 200 on Thursday.

Mr Farquhar suffered chest and pelvic injuries in a high-speed crash at the NW 200 with Dan Cooper, who has now been discharged from Causeway Hospital, Coleraine.

Farquhar, who seriously ill, was airlifted to Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital.

Mrs Barton has also commended the emergency services for their “utmost professionalism” in dealing with the aftermath of the crash.

Pacemaker Belfast 12-5-16
Vauxhall International North West 200 - 2016
Ryan Farquhar (SGS/IEG/KMR Kawasaki ) and Daniel Cooper (Daniel Cooper Racing/SB Tuning Kawasaki ) crash during today's practices for the Vauxhall International North West 200, in Coleraine. Photo by Tim Swart/Pacemaker Press — Pacemaker Belfast 12-5-16 Vauxhall International North West 200 - 2016 Ryan Farquhar (SGS/IEG/KMR Kawasaki ) and Daniel Cooper (Daniel Cooper Racing/SB Tuning Kawasaki ) crash during today's practices for the Vauxhall International North West 200, in Coleraine. Photo by Tim Swart/Pacemaker Press

Mrs Barton said: “We are all truly relieved to hear that the injuries both riders sustained are not considered to be life-threatening.

“I hope both riders have a full and speedy recovery and can get back to doing the sport they enjoy most.

“Ryan Farquhar has enjoyed success at various racing levels and I would again like to emphasise to him how much support he has from everyone here at home.

“I would also like to thank the emergency services who demonstrated utmost professionalism throughout their handling of the incident. I look forward to seeing both racers compete in the near future.”