Driver killed in Northern Ireland rally crash

A competitor has been killed in a motor rally in Northern Ireland.

Ryan Bradley, from Kilrea, Co Derry, died after a crash during the first stage of the Down Rally, which started from Lower Square, Castlewellan, yesterday morning.

Inspector John McClurg, of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), confirmed the death, and said: "The family of the deceased would ask the media to respect their privacy at this time."

A member of Mr Bradley’s crew was taken to hospital.

Race organiser Rathfriland Motor Club immediately cancelled the event.

“The organisers of the Down Rally can confirm that a competitor has lost his life after an accident on Stage 1 of the rally,” a spokesman said.

“One other member of the competing crew has been taken to hospital for precautionary checks.

“The thoughts of Rathfriland Motor Club, and everyone involved with the event are with the family and friends of the deceased at this time.

"As with all incidents of this nature, an investigation is now being carried out by the PSNI and appropriate local authority. Rathfriland Motor Club together with the sport's governing body, the Motor Sports Association (MSA), are co-operating fully with the investigation."

About 70 crews were waved off at Castlewellan before heading the short distance to the first test at Loughisland Reavy. They were then set to drive to Katesbridge before returning to Castlewellan Forest Park.

The drivers were then due to move on to Annaclone, and back to Katesbridge. The final loop would have taken them back to Loughisland Reavy and Annaclone.

PA