The funeral date for Eden-based British motorbike champion Keith Farmer has been announced.
He died suddenly on Thursday, aged 35.
He lived in Penrith and worked for Waitings Ltd civil engineering firm at Cliburn.
A thanksgiving of his life will be held on Tuesday, November 15, in County Tyrone.
The Northern Irishman, who retired from racing in September 2021, won the National Superstock 600 title in 2011, and Superstock 1000cc successes followed in 2012 and 2018, while he also won the British Supersport title in 2017.
His brother, David, said Keith died in the early hours of Thursday with his family by his side. Paying tribute on Facebook, he wrote: “I’m lost for words our little brother left us at 1.45 this morning with us all by his side. Life will never be the same again, he made us all so proud and he will be very sorely missed. Love you Meekie #33.”
The notice of the funeral says: “Keith Stanley, dear daddy of Sophie, Khloe, and Addison; much loved son of Alan, and the late Barbara, Ballynakelly, and dearly loved brother of Wendy, Kathy, and David. Brother-in-law of Mark, Stuart, and Laura.
“Devoted uncle of Katie, Robbie, Jack, Hannah, Ruby, Ellie, Grace, Louis, Jacob, and Cody; also, much missed by partner Sam.”
Service of thanksgiving for Keith’s life will be held on Tuesday 15th November at 2.30pm in St Andrew’s Parish Church, Killyman, followed by burial in the adjoining churchyard.
The family have requested no flowers, but donations if desired, should be by cheque made payable to: Samaritans, c/o Holmes of Dungannon, Tyrone House, Ballygawley Road, Dungannon, BT70 1EL.
The PBM Ducati Superbikes team, owned by Langwathby-based Paul Bird, for whom Farmer won a championship several years ago, said: “Everyone at PBM is deeply saddened by the passing of Keith Farmer. We send our condolences to his family and friends who remain in our thoughts.”
As well as being backed by his employers, Waitings, he was supported over the years by Penrith-based Arragon’s Cycle Centre and Fit4Racing, and Hillcroft Park, Pooley Bridge.
