ARA receives trust grant for Jurby Circuit improvements

Funds to be used to 'significantly upgrade' comms infrastructure

Andreas Racing Association (ARA) has been handed a financial boost to its operations by the Manx Lottery Trust.

The club has been awarded an £11,900 grant by the Manx Lottery Trust's Community Awards Programme.

Funds will be used to 'significantly upgrade' the radio communications system at the Jurby Circuit in the north of the Island where the ARA holds its race meetings throughout the season.

ARA Chairman, Linda Alton-Heath, says: "Equipment failures had recently brought us close to cancellation, so the grant has been a lifeline.

"It secures our ability to operate at a professional standard and gives us confidence to expand our calendar.

"For many, ARA is where their racing journey begins. The Isle of Man is the road racing capital of the world and this sport is deeply woven into our heritage.

"This investment supports not just a circuit, but a legacy."

The association is now in its 55th year of operating and is a volunteer-run organisation.

It plays a key role in developing local racing talent by providing riders aged 14 and upwards the chance to progress from club racing up to the likes of the Isle of Man TT Races, Manx Grand Prix, Southern 100 Road Races and events further afield.

It also operates the Isle of Man's only ACU-approved race school.