27/11/2002
North-west sports events considered for civic honour
The organisers of two of the north coast’s biggest sporting events are to be honoured by Coleraine Borough Council.
The organising teams behind the Milk Cup soccer tournament and the North-West 200 motorcycle races have been put forward for the biggest accolade a local authority can bestow – the Freedom of the Borough.
After the council meeting last night, East Londonderry UUP Assembly member David McClarty said: “I think it is only fitting that we should recognise the enormous importance of both events which have become hugely significant in terms of event tourism.
"It says so much for the enthusiasm and skill of the volunteers who give up so much of their free time to plan the smooth-running of two tremendous sporting occasions."
Over recent years, the north-west has become established as a major sporting fixture in Ireland and the quality of competitors at the North-West 200 have increased, as has the number of spectators which now tops 100,000 people.
Councillor McClarty added: “Next year the Milk Cup youth soccer tournament celebrates its 21st anniversary and has plans for an extended competition. This amazing success story was born out of the nucleus of an idea which developed into an outstanding success.
“The Milk Cup is a wonderful family sports attraction. It is also run entirely by a dedicated band of volunteers who deserve our recognition."
“The people of the Coleraine area are immensely proud of both events and I am pleased that my proposal has received the backing of all parties on the Council.”
The freedom ceremony is likely to be held next spring.
(GMcG)
The organising teams behind the Milk Cup soccer tournament and the North-West 200 motorcycle races have been put forward for the biggest accolade a local authority can bestow – the Freedom of the Borough.
After the council meeting last night, East Londonderry UUP Assembly member David McClarty said: “I think it is only fitting that we should recognise the enormous importance of both events which have become hugely significant in terms of event tourism.
"It says so much for the enthusiasm and skill of the volunteers who give up so much of their free time to plan the smooth-running of two tremendous sporting occasions."
Over recent years, the north-west has become established as a major sporting fixture in Ireland and the quality of competitors at the North-West 200 have increased, as has the number of spectators which now tops 100,000 people.
Councillor McClarty added: “Next year the Milk Cup youth soccer tournament celebrates its 21st anniversary and has plans for an extended competition. This amazing success story was born out of the nucleus of an idea which developed into an outstanding success.
“The Milk Cup is a wonderful family sports attraction. It is also run entirely by a dedicated band of volunteers who deserve our recognition."
“The people of the Coleraine area are immensely proud of both events and I am pleased that my proposal has received the backing of all parties on the Council.”
The freedom ceremony is likely to be held next spring.
(GMcG)
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