Paul Bird’s British Superbike team have pledged to put on a show in the late Cumbrian owner’s memory when they race this weekend.

The Beermonster Ducati team head to Oulton Park for their first outing since news of Mr Bird’s recent passing.

Tributes to the Langwathby motorsport businessman have been paid from across the sport since his death at 56.

And riders Glenn Irwin and Tommy Bridewell say Mr Bird will be in their thoughts as they compete in Cheshire.

Irwin said: “I want to put on a good show for not just Paul, but all the fans of PBM [Paul Bird Motorsport] who I am sure are also saddened by the recent news.”

Series leader Bridewell added: “This weekend, I go into it like any other weekend and that is to do the best job I possibly can for myself, the team and of course for Paul.”

News and Star: Glenn Irwin says the team wants to put on a good show in memory of Paul Bird this weekendGlenn Irwin says the team wants to put on a good show in memory of Paul Bird this weekend (Image: PBM)

Mr Bird’s funeral will be held next Friday with a private service at Eden Valley Crematorium followed by a gathering at Roundthorn Country House, Penrith.

It was announced on September 1 that the Cumbrian, whose motorsport operation has delivered huge success, had passed away suddenly after a short time in hospital with illness.

A statement from PBM this weekend say the team and race organisers are planning tributes to Mr Bird this weekend – but added that the focus will remain on the racing, “as he would have wanted”, as the Cumbrian team target an unprecedented ninth Bennetts British Superbikes title next month.

Irwin added: “I have a great feeling and I have said it all year, and despite the tough times for the team of late with the news of Paul’s passing, I still have a great feeling of how this season’s chapter ends.”

First-placed Bridewell leads by 14.5 points ahead of Irwin.