Editorial Note: The Southern 100 is held on a 4.25-mile section of closed-off public roads (known as the Billown Circuit) on the Isle of Man. Unlike the Isle of Man, which sees riders sent off in 10-second intervals and racing against the clock on a 37.75-mile stretch of closed-off public roads, the races at the Southern 100 have mass grid starts and riders fight for positions on course, like races on purpose-built racetracks.

James Cowton, just took two top-10 finishes in the Supersport TT races at the Isle of Man TT and a fourth in the SES Zero TT race for electric motorcycles.

STATEMENT ISSUED ON BEHALF OF THE SOUTHERN 100 MOTOR CYCLE RACING CLUB

The Southern 100 MCRC, organisers of the Southern 100 International Road Races, regret to announce that following an incident involving four-competitors at Stadium Bends during the 600cc Challenge race, Driffield  rider, James Cowton succumbed to his injuries.

The other riders involved, Ivan Lintin is in a critical condition, whilst Jamie Coward has shoulder injuries and Mickey Evans leg and arm injuries.

Southern 100 Racing extends it sincere condolences to family, relatives and friends of James Cowton at this very sad time.

The organisers are carrying out a full investigation in conjunction with Isle of Man Constabulary into the circumstances of the incident on behalf of the Coroner of Inquests.