Whyte takes the helm of Ireland's biggest sporting spectator attraction after more than 30 years of involvement with the race.

He succeeds Billy Nutt who has expressed doubts over the long-term prospects for events such as the North West, the Isle of Man TT and the Ulster Grand Prix.

Whyte, who took charge of the races for the first time last year, only to see then cancelled due to fears over the spread of foot-and-mouth disease, remains upbeat.

"We are conscious that improvements have to be made to make the circuit as safe as possible and that is what we have done this year," he said.

Atlantic Ocean

"The Northern Ireland Assembly has given us a generous donation to upgrade the circuit although there is only so much you can do to make public road races safe.

"We have been inundated with entries, and are increasing the number of activities for visitors to the area.

"We want to make it more than a race day - it is our aim to promote the North West 200 as a week-long festival of motorcycling, including fireworks, chat shows and stunt extravaganzas".

With the race being held against the distinctive backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the North West 200 boasts one of the most beautiful and unique settings for motorcycle racing in the world.

This is something that Whyte and the organising Coleraine Club are keen to exploit.

"More can be done in terms of attracting television coverage and enthusiasts from across Europe, but all those who organise the race do so on a voluntary, part-time basis.

"We all have jobs to do and I rely heavily on the co-operation of everyone who helps organise the race to make it a success. It is very much a team effort.

"Marshals and first-aid personnel are just some of those who are essenial to the smooth running of the event."

The organisers have improved spectator facilities this year with the construction of seven grandstands around the circuit which will accommodate more than 3,000 people.

Sponsor needed

The paddock area has also been upgraded.

The financial backing of Coca-Cola transformed the North West 200 but this is the last year that the drinks firm are supporting the event.

Mervyn is on the lookout for a new overall sponsor.

"A number of major companies have shown an interest while each individual race this year has attracted sponsorship.

"The race has become very commercial and takes a lot of money to run.

"Many riders are looking for money just to compete and in some cases, you are dealing with team managers rather than competitors."

Goodwill of landowners

Mervyn explains that organising an event such as the North West 200 is a year-long affair.

"We have to secure a suitable date and then there are all the organisational and administrative matters to take care of, including the distribution of regulations and entries.

"Potential sponsors have to be contacted and there are several press conferences to be arranged."

Mervyn and his team rely on the goodwill of landowners around the circuit and this is largely forthcoming.

"Any problems which are brought to our attention by residents are dealt with immediately on a one-to-one basis.

"We have been fortunate in enjoying a good relationship with those who own property in the vicinity of the racing area."