Tragic motorcyclist laid to rest

Stephen Larkin died during a practice session at Kells road race on Saturday.

The 27-year-old father of three was described as a 'gentle giant' and 'proper gentleman' by a close family friend.

Stephen had worked as a mechanic at Agnew's Audi in Portadown and only recently won his first race at Cookstown.

The accident happened just after 5pm and Mr Larkin was taken to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where he died.

He was on the Crossakiel circuit practising for the 401-750cc support race when the crash happened.

Family friend, John Mark said he was totally devastated, "He was my friend's son, he would have helped anyone in any way."

Requiem Mass was to be held yesterday at noon in the Church of St John the Evangelist, Gilford, with burial in St Patrick and St Colman Cemetery in Laurencetown.

Stephen is survived by his wife Catherine, children Aaron, Megan and Callum.