Hopkirk, Meeke at tribute to motorsport in NI do.

British Rally legend, Paddy Hopkirk and Citroen Junior WRC driver, Kris Meeke were amongst those attending a special reception hosted by secretary of state, Peter Hain MP this week, which highlighted the contribution motorsport makes to the local economy and lives of people living in Northern Ireland.

All of Northern Ireland's 33 car clubs were represented at the high-profile reception, which was held at Hillsborough Castle on Monday May 8. MSA chairman Alan Gow, Motor Sports Council chairman Graham Stoker and MSA chief executive Colin Hilton were also present along with many prominent past and present competitors and personalities from Ulster's thriving motor sport community.

To illustrate the depth and breadth of motor sport in the province, Hillsborough also featured a display of selected competition vehicles: Eugene Donnelly's Irish Tarmac Rally Championship winning Toyota, Robert Morgan's title winning hillclimb car and the kart of Northern Ireland Junior Champion Samantha Thom.

"Motor sport makes a major contribution to the lives of people in Northern Ireland," emphasised the Secretary of State. "It not only brings excitement to the spectators who follow the various sports and great pride to those involved in organising and competing, it also brings significant financial benefits to the local economy and beyond."

Hain stated that along with the economic benefits, the various motor sports have also produced many drivers and motorcyclists of outstanding calibre who have excelled on the international stage. He also paid tribute to those involved in organising events throughout Northern Ireland for their professionalism and the contribution they make to society and the economy.

"Without the commitment of the members of the Association of Northern Ireland Car Clubs and all the other motor sports organisations, the people of Northern Ireland would not have the opportunity to enjoy wonderful international events such as the Ulster Rally, the Circuit of Ireland and the North West 200. Hopefully next year in conjunction with Rally Ireland we will have secured a round of the World Rally Championship in Ireland," concluded the Secretary of State.

"It was a very constructive and productive reception not only highlighting the huge contribution that motor sport continues to make to the lives of those in Northern Ireland but also reinforcing our positive relationship with Government," added Hilton, MSA chief executive. "Peter Hain is a true motor sport supporter; he regularly attends the British Grand Prix and has performed a key role in the success of Wales Rally GB. The MSA is confident that the Secretary of State's understanding of and enthusiasm for all forms of motor sport will continue to benefit the motor sport community."