THE heartbroken family of a young father killed in a motorbike crash in Co Down have paid an emotional tribute to the “true gentleman”.
Philip McClelland, who was just 36-years-old, died in a single-vehicle collision in Co Down on Sunday afternoon.
The dad was tragically pronounced dead at the scene of the collision on the Portaferry Road in Newtownards as a result of his injuries.
Philip leaves behind his partner Lindsay, daughter Mylie, Lindsay’s two sons and a loving family.
In a statement, Inspector Cherith Adair from the PSNI’s Collision Investigation Unit said: “Shortly before 1.15pm, we received a report of a single vehicle road traffic collision involving a motorcycle.
“The rider of the motorcycle sadly died at the scene as a result of injuries sustained.”
Philip’s best friend has expressed the “pain and shock” of losing “Phil” in an emotional social media post he shared of behalf of Philip’s partner Lindsay.
Timmy Dickson shared his own grief alongside a message from the family on social media.
He said: “Absolutely heartbroken. I’ve been asked to share this on behalf of Phil’s partner, Lindsay Patton, his daughter Mylie Lindsay’s boys Jay, Jake and his family.
“As many of you may have already heard, Big Phil – my best mate, tragically lost his life yesterday in a motorbike accident.
“Words can’t express the pain and shock we’re all feeling. His partner, his mum, his daughter Mylie and the entire family are completely devastated.
“We’ll share details about the funeral arrangements as soon as they’re confirmed.
“The family would like to thank everyone for their messages, love, and support during this incredibly difficult time. It means more than you know.
“Rest easy, Big Phil.”
Tributes have flooded in from the wider community as they rally around Philip’s family.
In a resounding tribute the beloved man has been described as a “gentleman”.
‘HARD TO TAKE IN’
One mourner wrote: “Heartbreaking. Such a true gentleman.”
Another said: “Heart goes out to you all. He was such a gentleman.”
In response to the pal’s emotional tribute one person said: “Hard to take in mate.”
Another tribute said: “Sending big love mate to Mylie yourself and Phil’s partner and family.
“Just like the big man himself mate we all have your back through this.”
Anyone who may have any information in connection with the incident has been asked to come forward and assist in inquiries.
The PSNI said: “Enquiries are continuing and anyone who witnessed the collision or with dashcam or other footage which could assist with our investigation is asked to contact Collision Investigation Unit detectives via101, quoting reference number 762 29/06/25.”
The beloved man lost his life over the weekend[/caption]
