Police are urging road-users travelling to and from next week’s North West 200 circuit to stay safe, as the largest sporting event in Northern Ireland returns to the North Coast.
Speaking ahead of the hugely popular event, Chief Superintendent Mark Roberts said: "With this year’s North West 200 race week set to take place from 4th – 9th May, I am delighted to welcome all of those involved to the North Coast for another great year of motorcycle racing. A significant amount of planning goes into the racing event every year and local officers and I have been working very closely with the organisers and partner agencies, to ensure that the races and all associated events are safe and successful.
“Thousands of visitors from all over the world are expected to participate in the programme over the week, and the North Coast is always a magnet for motorcyclists because of the amazing routes and scenery. To ensure the safety of all involved, local officers and the wider police family are keen to ensure that those driving to join us – whether on two wheels or four - take extra care as the excitement builds.
“Reducing casualties on our roads remains a service priority through Operation Lifesaver and we will be focusing our road policing operations specifically on speeding and careless driving, as well as vehicles which fail to comply with the Construction and Use legislation.
"If you are riding up to join us, please remember it’s not a race to get here and that road conditions at this time of the year can change very quickly. If you are driving, please take time to ‘Think Bike’ - particularly when emerging from junctions and areas where it may be harder to see oncoming traffic.
“Those of you who travel to the event on public transport will see officers from our Safe Transport Team out and about, working in partnership with Translink to maximise the safety of those using and working on the network. This visibility will provide reassurance to passengers and reduce the likelihood of anti-social behaviour and associated offences.
"During the scheduled race days, please follow the directions of the event marshals at all times. Do not put yourself, other spectators or participating riders at risk by taking chances by entering the circuit on foot or by vehicle before it is reopened at the direction of the Clerk of the Course.
“We want everyone to enjoy the event and the socialising that accompanies it in a safe space. Once again, officers will be focusing on preventing Violence Against Women and Girls and anti-social behaviour in general, and will continue to work closely with our community partners to achieve this goal.
"The races take place in the heart of an active and vibrant community and as you travel and socialise I would ask that you are respectful of the residents and businesses who welcome you during race week. The towns along the race route ‘triangle’ - Portstewart, Coleraine and Portrush - are very much open for business and look forward to seeing you make the most of their facilities.
“Be mindful that journeys in this area are expected to take longer than normal, especially during road closures, so please consider this when planning your week.
"Finally, I wish everyone taking part the best of luck. Our officers look forward to meeting attendees over the course of what promises to be a really exciting week of racing."
Briggs Equipment North West 200 Race Director Mervyn Whyte encourages everyone attending this year's event to follow police advice and travel safely to and from the North Coast.
"The North West 200 brings tens of thousands of people to the north coast each May and we want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable visit to the races.
"Please leave the racing to the racers and follow the advice of the police. Have patience on the busy roads and show respect for your fellow travellers and pedestrians."