One of Ulster’s most popular, and successful, road racers Billy McCosh has died at the age of 81. 

A private funeral was held at Ballymena during the week with a memorial event being planned for later in the year. 

A tribute to him as a rider and a person was given by Mick Grant who said: ”I met him in 1974 at the Ulster and for whatever reason we struck up a friendship which has continued over the years. In fact, we phoned each other two or three times a month.

“He was Irish champion several times over - no mean feat - and after making his TT debut in 1960 captured many replicas. More than that he was a good man, always willing to help.”

Born in Ballymena, he spent the rest of his life there and set up Renault dealerships in his home town and Antrim. He is survived by his wife Denise, two daughters Suzanne and Debbie, and a son Michael.