Thundersprint doubts (From Northwich Guardian)

Thundersprint doubts

2:40pm Wednesday 31st October 2012 in News

DOUBTS over where next year's prestigious Thundersprint event will be held have come to light after Cheshire West and Chester Council revealed that organisers have not yet submitted an applicatio for funding.

The annual event, held every May, showcases about 100 classic and modern bikes as well as attractions including trade areas, food stalls and side shows.

But next year’s event, which would be the 16th, has not yet been confirmed by organisers.

After rumours that the 2013 event would be held at Silverstone, the Guardian contacted Thundersprint company director Frank Melling.

He said this was a completely new event called Thundersprint GP, which would be held as part of the Moto GP.

However, when asked whether next year’s event, usually held in Northwich, would return to the town, Mr Melling said “things are still being clarified and are not yet sorted”.

A spokesperson for Cheshire West and Chester Council, who sponsor the event, said that Mr Melling has not yet submitted an application for funding for next year’s event, something the council expected to have already received.

The spokesperson said: “On July 11 we advised the Thundersprint organisers of the process to bid for financial support through our new Events and Festivals Board, and provided them with the necessary forms and documentation. We are still awaiting their application.”

When asked why he was yet to submit the application, Mr Melling said he was in a meeting and would call the Guardian back at a later date.

At the time of going to press, Mr Melling had failed to comment.