The 2004 racing season gets underway at Croft Circuit this weekend with the opening round of the North-East Motorcycle Racing Club Championship held over both days.

With over 150 solo competitors and no less than 32 sidecar crews set to take part, the action is sure to be plentiful in the various classes throughout the weekend which culminates in the 15-lap battle for the Laird of Croft title on Sunday.

Amongst the favourites will be defending champion John Ingram (Hindley) on his Suzuki GSXR 1000 but also in the field will be former champion Phil Stewart (Rothienorman) on his 600cc Honda and fellow Scotsman Les Shand (Fochabars) on a Yamaha R1, both of whom will be in with a shout.

Local hopes rest with Sunniside rider Colin Gelston (Suzuki 600), David Bell from Chester le Street (Suzuki 1000) and Leyburn's James Brackenbury (Suzuki 1000) but a strong contingent from the Isle of Man will see top racers Paul Hunt (Suzuki 1000), Tommy Clucas (Honda 600) and Juan Kinnish (Suzuki 1000) also in action over the weekend.

A F2 sidecar field is headed by Ian Bell on his and passenger Tony Belsay's DMR outfit and they can expect stiff opposition in the shape of Rainton's Tony Thirkell and Roy King (Honda) and Penrith pairing Tony Baker and Jimmy White (Yamaha).

With classes to include Sound of Thunder, Formula 400, Formula 600, Classics, Forgotten Era and F125 to compliment the open class races, there should be plenty of excitement on track.

Practice gets underway at 9.30am on Saturday with racing immediately after and the action starts at noon on Sunday. Adult admission is just £6 on Saturday and £12 on Sunday with accompanied children under-15 admitted free on both days.

Witton Castle hosts the first Moto X race meeting of the 2004 season in the North-East on Sunday.

Organisers Iveston and Satley MC are expecting a bumper line-up of local riders who are biting at the bit after a five month winter break.

Solo riders can choose from Expert, A Juniors, B and C Class line-ups with each capable of a 37-rider maximum with competition for trophies as great as ever.

The track at Witton Castle may favour the softer going riders or, in other words, it could be quite muddy. Practice gets underway at 10.30am followed by three blocks of 15 minute races for all classes. Admission cost adults £3, OAP's and children £1.

If you intend to go along you are advised to bring your wellies and wear something warm.