Could Ballymoney have permanent motorcycle museum

Former Deputy Mayor, Darryl Wilson and his colleague Aaron Callan, put forward a notice of motion at last Tuesday night’s full meeting of council stating that the excitiment of road racing ‘should be celebrated’ with a permanent display of trophies leathers, helmets and memorabilia from famous riders past and present.

The motion came just days before bike fans from around the globe remembered the death of one of the town’s most famous sons, Joey Dunlop.

The World Champion died in Tallinn, Estonia, in 2000 while leading a 125cc race.

Councillor Wilson’s motion, which was not debated at last Tuesday night’s said: “Ballymoney is the obvious location to share some of the fascinating stories of teh motorcycle riders who have competed on public roads at the North West 200, Ulster Grand Prix, Isle of Mann TT and other famous races.

“The museum exhibitions should focus on the success of our local riders and the road racing circuits which have provided such memorable races for many people for over a century.”

The motion was not discussed by members.

Members agreed to defer the matter to the next Leisure and Environment Committee meeting.

FOOTBALL

At the same meeting, Mayor, Alderman Maura Hickey commended both the Northern Ireland and Republic teams on their heroics in the European Championships.

Of course both sides were eliminated in the knock out stages of the competition, alongside England.

Mayor Hickey said that both sets of fans had ‘done a lot’ to sell the country and had shown ‘wonderful ambition’.