Freedom of Borough honour for NW200 director Whyte

North West 200 director Mervyn Whyte is to receive the Freedom of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough, following a unanimous vote by the council.

The decision was taken during a special meeting on Thursday night.

Mr Whyte, who first served as a road marshal at the NW200 motorcycle races back in 1973 before becoming clerk of course in 2000 and now event director, said he was delighted with the news.

“It’s a huge honour and privilege to be granted the Freedom of the Borough,” he said.

“I appreciate the huge support the NW200 receives from the elected Causeway Coast and Glens Council members.

“It is even more meaningful now as the council takes in a wide area from beyond Limavady to Ballycastle. Limavady, my home town, is part of the new council and I never forget that!”

The 67-year-old will be recognised for his services to the North West 200 races and to motorsport in Northern Ireland.

As event director, Mr Whyte manages a team of 800 volunteers who work all year round to ensure the NW200 goes ahead on the famous Triangle circuit.

“I want to pay tribute to the hard-working members of Coleraine and District Motor Club and the army of volunteers who put in so much effort to ensure the races take place each May,” he said.

“The North West 200 is a massive event now, with huge international status.

“It has grown immensely over the past 10 to 15 years with the support of Council and I hope it continues to do so over many more years to come.”

The honour will be formally conferred on Mr Whyte at a ceremony within the next few weeks.