MOTORCYCLE racing fans are expected to flock to Northallerton tonight to attend a fundraising auction in honour of one of biking's most flamboyant characters.

The evening will raise money in memory of Simon "Ronnie" Smith, who was killed in a road accident near his Harrogate home in January.

Famous faces such as Yorkshire's James Whitman and David Jefferies and British Superbike star Steve Plater will make guest appearances at the town's Club Amadeus.

Ronnie was a highly successful and well-liked amateur racer and part-time motorcycle journalist and the event is being held by the North Yorkshire Road Racing Supporters Club.

A set of World Superbike star Neil Hodgson's 2003 Fila Ducati Leathers, a signed Middlesbrough football club shirt and a VIP weekend at Silverstone will go under the hammer at the event's auction.

Raffle prizes will include £1,500 worth of Hein Gericke Vouchers - a Harrogate motorcycle clothing retailer where Ronnie had been a part-time employee.

The night starts at 8pm and the bar will be open until late. Admission is £2.50 and all proceeds will go to Ronnie's partner, Jane, and their two sons, Harry and Fred.