Support drive for TT trip

A charity lunch has been organised to help get Greytown motorcycle veteran Doug Fairbrother to the Isle of Man Grand Prix Festival this year.

To help get him there, the Wairarapa Development Group (WDG) is organising a lunch in June at the Copthorne Resort Solway Park.

Mr Fairbrother hopes to race in the Classic TT event at the Isle of Man Grand Prix Festival in August.

Accompanied by a support team from his local club, Greytown Racing Team, he plans to ride a recently purchased 1971 BSA Rocket - raced by Hugh Anderson, Grand Prix World Champion and twice winner of the Isle of Man TT.

Board member Bob Francis said Mr Fairbrother's trip was a fantastic example of the get up and go spirit of Wairarapa.

"The Wairarapa Development Group is delighted to support Doug's energy and enthusiasm for motor racing. He's taking on the world's most dangerous road track and that's no mean feat," he said.

"He's also taking a little part of the Wairarapa overseas, giving our region positive exposure and helping to put us on the map."

Mr Francis said a substantial amount of funds was necessary as Mr Fairbrother's support team from the Greytown Racing Team will accompany him and are also fundraising.

"This will go towards transportation and accommodation costs for Doug and the Greytown team, which includes his young apprentice Finn Harman. And what an opportunity for a young person, like Finn, to further his career in mechanics."

Mr Fairbrother has raced four times at the TT, with three completions, and at Monza in Italy, Paul Ricard in France, Assen in Holland and all over the UK. The charity lunch will be held on Sunday June 16.