Mervyn Whyte will be remaining on in the key organisational role at the North West 200 after the event secured additional government funding.

In August, Whyte suggested that he might end his involvement in the event because the workload had "become too much for one man to manage".

However, it was announced on Thursday morning that Whyte had been appointed to a new Race Director's role.

Whyte will be working alongside seven other people in the new structure.

Back in August, Limavady man Whyte spoke of the "business case that the government give us backing" so that he could take on a new overall race director's role.

That government funding has now proved forthcoming with further support also coming from Coleraine Borough Council and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.

Whyte's new role will see him overseeing the overall operation working alongside a management team of seven who will be responsible for all aspects of the May event.

Northern Ireland Sports Minister Nelson McCausland said that the "huge potential of the NW200" needed to be strategically managed.

"Mervyn's new role in delivery will allow him to concentrate on improving the event for fans and competitors," added the minister.

Clerk of Course duties have now been divided amongst our seven new managers Mervyn Whyte

"Over recent years the Northern Ireland Executive through my Department has demonstrated its commitment to making this event a success through the provision of over £0.5 million of funding.

"This funding has been instrumental in improving circuit safety, employing a business development manager, developing the event's website, resurfacing the paddock area and supporting two new marketing campaigns.

"I would like to thank Mervyn Whyte for the hard work, commitment and determination he has given to this event over the years as Clerk of Course.

"I am pleased that he has decided to stay on in a different role and I have no doubt that he will continue to provide valuable input to what is undoubtedly an internationally renowned event."

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 Whyte and Laura McManus in events and organisational activities.

Whyte spoke of his delight at the announcement of the "new structure".

"Clerk of Course duties have now been divided amongst our seven new managers with the new operations manager being responsible for duties on the grid," said Whyte.

The 2010 event is expected to take place on 15 May although this is subject to ratification by the Motorcycling Union of Ireland later this month.

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