DAN COOPER competed in the infamous North West 200 road race in Northern Ireland last weekend, when he secured some solid top 10 finishes, writes Alannah Fellows.

However, the event was overshadowed following the tragic death of rider Simon Andrews.

In the first Supersport race, former Cirencester Kingshill pupil Cooper finished in ninth position on his Tsing Tao Kawasaki after getting caught up in a crash on the first corner.

However, he continued and crossed the line as the highest-placed Kawasaki machine.

Entering the first Superstock race, the 26-year-old had a tough baptism, not helped by a slow start on his unfamiliar bike, and crossed the line in 14th after making steady progress.

Cooper and his team made alterations to the bike for the second Supersport race and they secured a fantastic result in eighth, again finishing top Kawasaki rider.

Cooper's luck ran out for the remainder of the weekend as he was forced to retire from the second Superstock race and was unable to start in the Superbike race, both times due to mechanical errors.

Cooper said: " I am pleased with my performances in the races I completed.

"With the equipment I have, the aim was to be in the top 10 which I achieved. Also, to be the top Kawasaki rider in this class is very pleasing.

"I now I look forward to the Isle of Man TT next week when we hope to carry on with the success from the North West.

"The TT is my favourite road race to ride and I cant wait to get out on the roads."