Thousands of motorcyclists look set to roar back into a Ryedale town that was boycotted by some bikers last summer following complaints from residents.

About 6,000 people are expected to descend on Helmsley in June when the Motorcycle Action Group holds its annual fundraising rally at Duncombe Park, the stately home of Lord Feversham.

More than 5,000 bikers attended the rally when it was held there in 1996. There were no arrests or incidents.

But last year's event was held at Castle Howard, near Malton, after a number of householders and business people in Helmsley complained about disruption caused by bikers.

Speaking last year, action group chairman Neil Liversidge rejected suggestions that the rally had been forced to move from Duncombe Park because it would have clashed with an earlier booking.

He claimed local hoteliers had "leaned on" Lord Feversham because they did not want bikers around.

Mr Liversidge, who said he felt "massively aggrieved and insulted", urged bikers not to spend any money in Helmsley.

Traders, who reported that business did suffer for a few weeks, encouraged the motorcyclists to continue spending money in premises displaying the poster 'We Are Biker Friendly'.

On Thursday, members of Ryedale District Council's environment, health and housing committee will be recommended to approve a public entertainment licence for the rally at Duncombe Park between Friday, June 19, and Sunday, June 21.

The open-air event at the Doeholmes and Cascades will feature two live bands on the Friday and Saturday evening, followed by a disco on both nights.

Councillors will be told that no objections or adverse comments have been made by the police.

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