CHAMPIONSHIP racing could be heading to Ryedale - if district council planners give it the go-ahead.

Organisers at York Amateur Motor Cycle Association (AMCA) are hoping to hold two motorcycle scramble events at Terrington Bank this summer, with riders from across the UK expected to attend.

Mick White, secretary of the club, said they were crossing their fingers that this year's races would be given the green light.

He said: "Motorcycle scrambles have been held on Terrington Bank on and off since 1940 and the venue is well known throughout the UK for its superb hillside circuit.

"We are hoping this year we can have a championship round which will be a great event.

"Riders will make a long weekend of it, staying in local bed and breakfasts and boosting the local economy."

Mr White said he was hoping planners at the district council would allow the events to go ahead after last year's races were cancelled due to the outbreak of foot and mouth.

He said they were up against opposition from some people who were concerned at the damage done to the hillside.

"We don't want to ruin the landscape, but I don't agree with the council that we are decimating it," he said.

"If you go up to Terrington Bank now you will not see where the bikes have been.

"Even if you went soon after an event you would have to be looking hard to see where the bikes were ridden."

Mr White said the club worked hard to provide something for young people to do.

He said: "We often hear of illegal practice and the AMCA tries to organise events for youngsters and bring them into a controlled sport. In my mind it's about whether damaging the grass justifies banning the event, or are we keeping the kids off the streets with something to do?"

The application is expected to go before planners next month.

Updated: 11:35 Saturday, May 04, 2002