Sports minister announces financial package for North West 200

The North West 200 has been given a massive boost by Sports Minister, Michael McGimpsey, who has announced £75,000 of government funds is to go towards promoting the motorcycling festival in County Antrim.

The North West 200 is one of the world’s top motorcycle meetings for racers, and a testing ground for those about to compete in the TT Races in the Isle of Man. Last year, organisers of the event cancelled the races due to the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease.

Speaking at the launch of the 2002 event at the Stormont Hotel in Belfast, the Mr McGimpsey said: “I recognise fully the importance of road racing to many in Northern Ireland. That is why I was pleased to secure £100,000 last year from the Executive, of which £26,000 went to the North West, to help make our circuits as safe as possible for competitors.

“The North West 200 attracts thousands, both from home and abroad, to this terrific spectacle and also generates much needed revenue for local businesses. I am therefore delighted to announce that the Northern Ireland Events Company is prepared to allocate £75,000 to help the organisers to attract some of the top international riders to the Province.

“Big names mean big attendances, and I am confident that the North West will build on the progress it has made and continue to be one of the top events in our sporting calendar.” (AMcE)