Motorcycling world pays tribute to Simon Andrews
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Figures from across the motorcycling industry have been paying their tributes to Simon Andrews following the news of his tragic death in the wake of an accident during the North West 200.
A podium winner at British Superbike level, where had been competing with RAF Reserves Honda in 2014, and an adept road racer, Simon had become a popular and respected figure in the motorcycling paddock.
Led by British Superbike series director Stuart Higgs, riders, team managers and commentators have been paying tribute to the 31-year-old.
"I am deeply saddened by today's news. I've known Simon since he made his British Championship debut in 2000. He was extremely highly regarded and his comebacks from serious injuries in recent years earned the utmost admiration and total respect of everyone.
"On behalf of the Championship I would like to extend our deepest condolences to Simon's father Stuart, his mother Dee, his sister Claire and all his family, friends and team members."
Very sad to hear the news of Simon Andrews passing away. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this tough time. Rest in peace.-- Repsol Honda Team (@HRC_MotoGP) May 19, 2014
Sad to hear news about Simon Andrews. Thoughts are with all his friends and family at this time ... RIP-- Cal Crutchlow (@calcrutchlow) May 19, 2014
Devastating news about Simon Andrews. He was a fantastic rider with the sharpest sense of humour. A huge loss.-- Eugene Laverty (@eugenelaverty) May 19, 2014
Such sad news to hear about Simon Andrews RIP mate. Thoughts and wishes to all his family..-- leon haslam (@realleonhaslam) May 19, 2014
My thoughts are with Simon Andrews' family and friends. Another great loss in motorcycle racing.-- James Toseland (@JamesMToseland) May 19, 2014
So sad to hear #SimonAndrews has passed away. Thoughts with his family at this time.-- Steve Parrish (@Stavros6) May 19, 2014
So sad to hear Simon Andrews has passed away, my thoughts go out to his family and friends.-- Ian Hutchinson (@tweethutchy) May 19, 2014
Such sad sad news hearing that Simon Andrews has passed away! Gone way too soon! RIP Si-- Jonathan Rea (@jonathanrea) May 19, 2014
Sad Times...Simon Andrews passing today. More Resolve and Bravery than a highly decorated General...Thoughts are with friends and Family RIP-- Stalker (@CWStalker9) May 19, 2014
Sad to hear the tragic news about Simon Andrews. Race In Peace Si...-- ScottReddingOfficial (@scottredding45) May 19, 2014
Simon is survived by his parents Stuart and Dee, as well as his sister Claire and his girlfriend Lisa.
Crash.net wishes to send its sincerest condolences to Simon's family and friends at this difficult time.