The family of the late Manx TT star Dan Kneen had a private meeting with Prince William during this week’s royal visit .
Inquiries are continuing into the high-speed crash near Churchtown, which claimed the life of the professional road racer during a qualifying session on the evening of Wednesday, May 30.
Dan’s father Richard posted on Facebook on Thursday: ’Well yesterday we met Prince William. He had asked to speak to us in private.
’What a lovely young man. He spoke to all of us one at a time and wanted to hear about Dan.
’He was genuinely interested about when Dan first got involved with bikes and what he had achieved in his racing career. He was enthusiastic to see the TT carry on.’
Dan’s partner Leanne presented Prince William with a Dan Kneen T-shirt.
Richard said: ’He said he will wear it with pride and send a photo with it on.
’Leanne said we would like to set up a proper charity in Dan’s name and he said "let me know when it gets set up" - he would be happy to help in any way he could.
’That’s very nice of HRH Prince William - a compassionate and understanding young man.’
At the opening of the inquest yesterday (Thursday), Coroner John Needham passed on his sincere condolences to Dan’s family.
He heard that marshals had estimated that the 30-year-old Manx-born rider, of The Kirkway, Onchan, had been travelling at 140mph when the crash occurred.
Cause of death has been established as multiple injuries.
The inquest was adjourned for a date to be fixed.
The funeral will take place on Friday next week at Douglas Crematorium. Those attending have been requested by the family to wear bike gear or casual clothing.