Issued by The Fermanagh Trust…

The Fisher Foundation has taken a leadership role in supporting rally safety initiatives at this weekend’s Ulster Rally. The Foundation was set up as a permanent memorial to the lives of Mark, Emma and Bertie Fisher who died following an air accident in 2001.

Safety in rallying was always of paramount importance to three times Ulster Rally Winner Bertie Fisher, especially the safety of spectators, marshals, officials and competitors. During the early 1980s, Bertie became increasingly aware of the need for an improvement in safety standards in Irish rallies.

To highlight the urgency in addressing the problem, Bertie, already one of the top Irish rally drivers withdrew from competitive rallying in 1986 to enable him to assist event organisers in the promotion and implementation of improved spectator safety standards.

The trustees of the Fisher Foundation therefore feel it appropriate to continue supporting motor sport safety initiatives in recognition of Bertie’s long established interest in this particular aspect of rallying. To this end the Fisher Foundation will assist with the provision of Rally Safety Units, doctors and media aid during the Ulster Rally. In the coming weeks the Foundation will also be supporting safety at Enniskillen Motor Club’s Lakeland stages event.

Each year the Foundation supports a range of initiatives, each promoting the continued development of safety in motor sport. The Fisher Foundation Rally Safety Awards seeks applications from Motor Clubs or other relevant organisations associated with rallying who want to improve safety standards. This may include support in the cost of relevant training for voluntary officials and marshals and support in the purchase of appropriate safety equipment.

For more information on the awards or to download an application form visit www.fermanaghtrust.org

Ivan Fisher from the Fisher Foundation said “The Foundation is delighted to be able to support safety initiatives in both the 2013 Ulster Rally and Enniskillen’s Motor Club Lakeland Stages event on 7th September. Safety is at the forefront of both events and the Fisher Foundation’s financial support will go towards advancing safety initiatives during these two major events in Fermanagh”.

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Hazel McFarland, Fermanagh Trust Communication Officer. tel: 02866320210 Mob: 07526633885    email:  hazel@fermanaghtrust.org