The family of Dr John Hinds, who tragically died on Saturday, has released a statement thanking the public for their support.
The statement read: “The widespread support and acknowledgement of John’s work, both nationally and internationally, has been incredibly heartwarming and a great source of comfort to us all at this terribly sad time. said the family statement.
“We are only now beginning to understand just how many lives John touched during his 35 action-packed years. John lived for his family, his patients and the biking fraternity. The world will be a poorer place without him.
“The family would like to thank the media and all followers on social media. Your stories, photographs and films are proving a great source of comfort to us today and we anticipate in the dark days ahead.
“Around 5pm on Tuesday (July 7) it is anticipated the cortege will be passing the Apple Green service station (M1 northbound, Castlebellingham) and all motorcyclists are welcome to join the family as they travel north, en route to a lap of the Tandragee 100 course which was John’s favourite circuit. On completion of the lap, the family request that John’s onward journey will be accompanied by family only.
“Close friends and colleagues are welcome to Janet and John’s home from 9am-noon on Wednesday and at John’s family home at 4 Ballygarvigan Road, Portaferry, on Wednesday (July 8) from 5pm-10pm and again from 11.30am on Thursday.
“Friends and family are welcome to join the cortege from Ballygarvigan Road, on the three-mile journey to St Patrick’s RC Church, Ballyphilip Road, Portaferry, for requiem mass at 2pm and burial in the adjoining graveyard.
“To commemorate John’s legacy, we would appreciate people continuing to sign the petition http://chn.ge/1JFkFSZ
“At this time, the family do not feel able to talk to the media but they will be making an announcement in the near future about their hopes of fulfilling John’s dream of establishing a doctor-led Helicopter Emergency Medical Service and full trauma network in Northern Ireland.”
