THE family of Vale motorbike racer Simon Andrews have handed over more than £3,500 to the Midlands Air Ambulance in his memory.

Mr Andrews, of Evesham, was just 31 when he died after a crash during the Superstock Road Race at the North West 200 event in Northern Ireland back in May.

Tributes poured in for the popular rider from friends and family in the Vale as well as his legions of fans and leading names from the world of motorsport.

Mr Andrews was airlifted from the racetrack to Belfast's Royal Victoria Hospital, where he later died.

And his family wanted to do their bit in his memory to ensure that the air ambulance service is able to continue to help others.

They have been raising funds for the Midlands Air Ambulance and his parents Dee and Stuart, sister Claire and niece Gracie were pleased to be able to visit the charity in person and hand over a cheque for £3,702.

Mrs Andrews said: "Simon loved racing and he was fully aware of the dangers involved but loved the challenge that it offered.

"He was a keen charity fund raiser and did a lot for Acorns Children Hospital but also, on occasions, needed the services of Air Ambulance.

"Not only is it a lifesaving service for sporting events, it also saves many lives making sure valuable time is not lost in transferring the patients directly to hospital."

She added: "As a family were proud to be able to present the cheque and we thank everyone who donated money to this very worthy cause which is kept flying on charity funding."