Current North West 200 Clerk of the Course Mervyn Whyte will assume the role  of race director for next year's set of races and oversee the overall operation working alongside a management team of seven personnel who will be responsible for the areas of safety, the paddock, general duties, communications, finance, operations and course set up.

In a first for the North West 200 Coleraine Borough Council will also assign an events co-ordinator to the North West 200 2010 team who will work on a part-time basis supporting Mervyn Whyte and Laura McManus in events and organisational activities.

The Council’s executive support is part of an extensive and enhanced financial package which alongside DCAL’s funding will help secure the future of the world famous road race which attracts upwards of 130,000 visitors each year.

“As indicated earlier this summer the workload for the Clerk of Course had grown significantly in recent years and it was necessary to introduce a revamped organisational structure," said Whyte.

"Following energetic and proactive discussions with both local and national government, Coleraine & District Motor Club Ltd is delighted to agree a framework which will secure the future of the North West 200 and help the team deliver a truly first class event for both participants and spectators.”