THE FAMILY of an Otley trials rider have honoured his memory by competing days after his funeral.

Sixty one year old motor engineer and motorsports fan Steve Bradley suffered a fatal heart attack while watching the International Pre-65 Two Day Trial, at Kinlochleven, last month.

Hundreds of people, including big names from the sport, attended his funeral at Otley Methodist Church on Thursday, May 18 when he arrived in a motorcycle hearse.

Three days later Mr Bradley's son, Joe, rode competitively on the new Montesa motorbike his father had used only once before his death - and won.

In fact three generations of the Bradley family took part in Ripon Motor Club's second club championship trial at Grewelthorpe on Saturday, May 20.

A one-minute silence for Mr Bradley was also observed by all who attended.

Motoring journalist Barry Robinson, who was there, said: "The organisers instigated a one minute silence at 5pm before the main event commenced.

"That took in 135 competitors plus parents, partners and children so the total number, plus 20 organisers, would be at least 250.

"It was quite uncanny, total silence - the only sounds were cattle in the adjoining field munching grass.

"I understand that Annette*, Steve's widow, was very touched by the mark of respect."

Referring to the trial itself, he added: "Three days after laying his father to rest Joe Bradley rode his late father's new Montesa trials machine to victory.

"The machine had had one previous outing, on April 22 at Hutton Conyers, in the hands of its owner.

"Not only were Steve's family present and watching but his brother, Ian, was also competing along with six-year-old grandson Finn Lawson-Bradley, who was contesting the youngest class on his Beta machine.

"So three generations of the Bradleys were in action."

Joe won the event's Novice category and Ian came tenth in the Over 50 class, while Finn was placed seventh in his category.

Wetherby and District Motor Club posted this tribute to Mr Bradley on Facebook: "Steve had been a member at the club for many years riding club, centre and national trials.

"Ask anyone who knew Steve and they'll tell you he was one of the nicest guy's you'll meet.

"He will be sorely missed and, as Barry Robinson summed up, 'he was one of the characters our sport depends upon'.".

*The family would like to thank everyone who has offered messages of support.