NW200 Race Director Mervyn Whyte MBE was awarded the prestigious award for ‘Services to Motorsport’ at the Sparks Champions of Motorsport Charity Dinner recently at the Kings Hall in Belfast.

Mervyn, who has just taken up the official post of NW200 Race Director for 2010 was overwhelmed and delighted with the award;

“This award was totally unexpected, I have been involved with the NW200 as a volunteer for the past 37 years and as Clerk of Course since 2001, I am absolutely thrilled to receive this award and accept it on behalf of all the 800 volunteers who work alongside me on the event.”

Each year the North West 200 gets bigger, attracting riders and spectators from all corners of the globe. As Race Director this year, my team and I are looking forward to what will be an even bigger and better event than before.”

This was the 15th year of the Champions of Motorsport Dinner and Auction, special guests at the awards included actor and explorer Charley Boorman, Formula One Renault Team Principal Bob Bell and commentator Tony Jardine. Other top guests from the world of motorsport included, Leon Haslam, Eugene Donnelly, Ian Lowry, Alistair Seeley, and Marty McCormack.