TRIBUTES have been paid after the death of a motorcycling legend from the Bradford district.

Tony Jefferies, a multiple Isle of Man TT winner and a prominent member of a renowned local motorcycling dynasty, has passed away at the age of 73.

It is understood that he had been ill for some time, including a problem with his aesophagus, and had been in Bradford Royal Infirmary.

As well as his racing exploits, Tony will be remembered for the vital role he played in the success of the family-run motorbike dealer business Allan Jefferies, established in 1917 at premises in Saltaire Road, Shipley and now based in Berry Drive, off Otley Road, Baildon.

Among those paying tribute was current Bradford racer Dean Harrison, who competes in the Bennetts British Superbike Championship.

He said: "It's such a shame - he was a really nice chap.

"He was a big name in the racing world. In fact, the whole Jefferies family name is a big name in the racing world.

"I worked at one of his old buildings when I started my apprenticeship and he used to come in to see us. I also bought a bike from his old shop about two years ago now. They're a popular name in the racing world."

Despite his failing health, the ever-determined Tony had attended the recent funerals of two close friends, Paul Smart and Peggy Appleyard.

Steve Sawford, a former British motorcycle champion, tweeted: "Just heard the terribly sad news about Tony Jefferies passing. He spoke so well just recently at Smarty’s funeral, it’s a shock."

Since his son David Jefferies died after crashing during practice for the 2003 Isle of Man TT races, Tony had ensured David's memory continued to be celebrated – something not lost on the motorcycling world.

"For many years Tony ensured his son David's memory was celebrated with the DJ Awards recognising achievements around the British Championships. RIP Tony and our deepest condolences to the family," said a tweet from the Bennetts British Superbike Championship.

"The BSB community is saddened by news today that Tony Jefferies has passed away," it added. Through his life, Tony also had to face up to the death of his wife Pauline, and his own paralysing handicap from a crash in 1973 at Mallory Park.

His family paid tribute to him as a "tremendous rider" and said his death had been a "great shock".

They said he was "no shrinking violet" and after his racing days he took the business forward, being "brave" and innovative with lots of new ideas.

In 2019, Tony and his daughter Louise Jefferies revealed their pride as Allan Jefferies won the Family Business of the Year accolade at the Telegraph & Argus' Bradford Means Business awards.

Speaking at the time, Tony, who handed the business over to his daughter in 2000, told the T&A: "We're really pleased that we stand out in the businesses in the Bradford area and made our mark against serious competition. It's something to be proud of."