'Caring Caretaker' named NW200 2011 Charity of the Year

Caretaker of Coleraine Town Hall since 1995 David is famous for his December 'sit-outs' at the Town Hall, but in addition to his seasonal charity collection, David has raised much needed funds for various good causes by organising quirky events such as 'Jail & Bail' as well as more mainstream initiatives including golf tournaments, concerts, sponsored diets and walks. Each year David supports a range of charities and since starting his charity work back in the 1990's has raised almost 300,000 and was awarded an MBE in the 2006 New Year's Honours List for his charity commitments.

"I'm hugely excited to be nominated as the 2011 North West 200 charity partner and this year the organisations I aim to support are Autism Society NI, NI Chest Heart & Stroke Association, Ulster Cancer Foundation, Motor Neuron Disease, Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Age NI, Parkinson's Disease Society, Zest and the Samaritans. Indeed most of these charities operate local groups and monies raised will be donated to local committees representing each of the charities." explained 'Caring Caretaker' David Boyle.

"Coming from Coleraine and working for Coleraine Borough Council, the North West 200 is a major event for me each year and I'm honoured to be able to raise money at Northern Ireland's largest outdoor sporting event. In 2010 I raised 50K and this year I hope to double my annual total due to my North West 200 partnership."

Welcoming David as the North West 200's new nominated charity the event's Technical Director Mervyn Whyte MBE said, "Coleraine & District Motor Club is delighted to bring on board local man David Boyle as our 2011charity. David has raised a staggering amount of cash over the years and he never ceases to work hard in all weathers for many worthwhile charities. We look forward to working alongside and supporting David in his bid to raise charity funds and I'm sure he will meet any target he sets himself. We do hope visitors and local people during Race Week and on Race Day will be extremely generous!"

This year's International North West 200 takes place on Saturday 21st May and will be officially launched on 25th January at the Merchant Hotel, Belfast. For details of Race Week visit www.northwest200.org.