Joey: King of the Roads

Through his courage and ambition he became one of the most successful riders of all time.

His incredible sporting career included five Formula One World Championships; 13 wins at the North West 200; 24 wins at the Ulster Grand Prix and a world record of 26 wins at the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy.

His sporting achievements were recognised by Her Majesty the Queen when he was awarded an MBE in 1986. Ten years later he was presented with an OBE for his remarkable humanitarian work with children in Eastern Europe.

Tragically Joey lost his life whilst racing in Estonia on 2nd July 2000. It is estimated that over 50,000 people from across the world came to Ballymoney to attend his funeral.

As word of the death of Joey spread almost 10 years ago to the day, tributes from across the globe poured into the little town he had single-handedly put on the world map.

NI Secretary of State Peter Mandelson said: "There are few sportsmen who are acknowledged as masters of their craft.

"Joey Dunlop indesputibly was one."

Close friend Liam Beckett said: "I am in total shock because I thought Joey was untouchable, invincible.

"I think everyone thought he was invincible."

Joey's former manager Davy Wood said: "We all tried to emulate him as riders and couldn't do it. For the entire public he crossed every divide."

Isle of Man Tourism and Leisure Minister David Cretney said: "He was not just a fantastic sportsman, he was a fabulous human being."

Eleven times TT winner Steve Hislop said: "Joey's been a great ambassador for road racing and for the Isle of Man."

Ballymoney Mayor Bill Kennedy said: "I have seen young and old with pain etched on their faces. The whole borough is stunned."

Sport commentator Jackie Fullerton said: "He was unique - put simply, a brilliant one off."

In a joint statement NI First and Deputy First Minister David Trimble and Seamus Mallon said: "Joey was a brilliant sportsman, a true man of the people and a wonderful ambassador for Northern Ireland."

MLA Ian Paisley Jnr said: "He will be missed, not only in Ulster but world-wide."