For those of you who may no be aware of this:

Saturday Evenings Qualifying Session was abandoned, due to a Red Flagged "Serious Incident" on the Sulby Straight.

There is no further news on this incident at present (21:30 hrs), however a further statement is expected.

I'm very sad to report that Paul Shoesmith was the rider involved in the incident this evening and he lost his life. Absolutely dreadful news with which to end the opening day of racing. May Paul rest in peace.

Very sad news, my condolences to both Paul and Dwain's families, it is a very harsh sport at times like this.

What a terrible day -shocked  - there was me thinking things were going well thoughts with all families

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

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im sure paul had also said this would be his last tt before hanging up his leathers
sadly it has turned out to be his last
hope all others who came off today arnt to bad and make full recovery

Terrible news. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends. Rip

Terrible news. My thoughts go out to his family and friends. Rip Paul.