Whitham, Haydon and Co set up shop

Britain’s newest Yamaha dealership is being officially opened this weekend and it’s a partnership between World Supersport star James Whitham, British Superbike rider James Haydon and Virgin Yamaha boss Rob McElnea.

Macsport opens in Brackley in Northants. Former GP rider McElnea said: ” I’ve been talking with Jamie for a while about opening a shop, but we wanted to create more than just a shop. We wanted to make a biking experience. ”

To do this, they have created a membership club with special offers and discounted holidays. It is free to join and you don’t have to be a customer.

Members will be invited to open evenings, special track days with the three owners and ride-outs from the shop. Their clout in the sport means they’ll have VIP passes to give out for races.

Whitham added: ” When I was a lad I went to a smaller dealer who helped everyone and made the experience more personal. We want this to be a place that riders can come so they can meet other bikers in a friendly atmosphere. ”

The official opening starts at 9am on Saturday, and the store will be open from 10am on Sunday. Prizes include a scooter in Virgin colours and Texport leathers.