TRIBUTES have flooded in after Helensburgh biker Adam Lyon was killed in a crash at the Isle of Man TT races.

Adam, 26, a former pupil at Hermitage Academy, was competing in the world-famous event for the first time.

His family and friends had travelled to the island to support him in his debut after he switched from circuit racing to road competition.

Adam’s girlfriend, Sarah Lyall, had shared a video on social media from a practice session at the event on May 28 to say how proud she was of his achievement.

Tributes to Adam were led by family friend and Lomond North councillor Iain ‘Shonny’ Paterson, himself a keen motorcyclist and motorsport participant.

Cllr Paterson said: “I felt great sadness to hear the news of Adam’s tragic death.

“He was a young man with such a promising talent on the motor racing circuit.

“As someone with a passion for motorsport myself, and also motorcycling, I followed Adam’s career with great interest.

“I know the challenges and commitment needed to be involved in such a sport.

“My heartfelt condolences go out to Adam’s family, girlfriend and friends.”

Cllr Paterson added: “The motorsport and motorcycling communities are very close-knit families. Everyone is aware of the dangers.

“But as a racer and a biker, the risk, paradoxically, isn’t in my mind when I go out, whether I’m biking in the Alps or lining up on the start line of a race. It’s all about the adrenaline rush and the sense of freedom.”

Adam’s friend Russell Jarvis, also a former Hermitage Academy pupil, said: “I got to know Adam through the extensive motorbike scene and had become friends since then.

“He always had a smile on his face and was always there for any advice or help when it came to riding techniques or bike set up.

“He was an extremely ambitious guy who had a lot of talent, character and enthusiasm, on and off the track.

“Like many who knew him as a friend or as a biker, and who feel part of a large family who look out for each other, I still cannot take in what has happened.

“I feel the pain sorely and will miss him dearly.”

Adam worked as an engineer at HM Naval Base Clyde with Babcock, who also paid tribute to their colleague.

A company spokesman said: “We are saddened to hear the news about our colleague Adam Lyon.

“He was a well-liked and much respected member of our team.

“Our thoughts at this time are with Adam’s family, friends and colleagues.”

Social media, meanwhile, was awash with tributes to Adam as news of the tragedy broke.

Friend Alexandra Nott said: “Adam was one of the most genuine, kind hearted souls I’ve ever met.

“Anyone that made my sister and best friend happy, made me happy, and he did that for sure every day.”

David Birchall, part of a neighbouring team in the TT races’ paddock, added: “I’ve been next door but one neighbour to Adam this week and had quite a few chats. Absolutely lovely young fella. Amazed by his performances during practice week.

“The whole paddock commented on how well he was doing and what a top lad he was.”

Prior to switching to road racing, Adam, who first raced at the age of five,had competed in the Superstock category in the British Superbike Championship alongside his brother Liam.

In an interview with Ride Scotland magazine earlier this year Adam described his brother as one of his closest on-track rivals.