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After last week’s announcement that motorcycling racing was to be cancelled in Northern Ireland due to a drastic rise in the cost of insurance, the news this weekend has been more positive.

The sports governing body in NI – the Motor Cycle Union of Ireland (Ulster Centre) – has been exploring a range of options to cover crippling insurance costs, and one of those ideas – a crowdfunding campaign has got off to a flying start.

Launched on Saturday, the online fundraising appeal had last night brought in more than £40,000 of the £300,000 required.

The organisers said: “The motorcycle world was rocked here in Northern Ireland when news of the hike in insurance was made clear to all the promoting motorcycle clubs.

“We are asking our fans, those that love their racing, their road racing and trials to help us by kindly donating directly to our insurance shortfall fund to give us the chance to have racing this year. Your efforts, if successful will result in most if not all two-wheeled sport being back on our calendar."

Meanwhile DUP MP Ian Paisley said that efforts are continuing to press insurance companies to offer a solution to the problem.

”From what I have seen and heard I am convinced there will be a full NW 200 event in 2023,” he said.

Biking community riding to the rescue