Two of our northern motor racing circuits are facing different futures in 2020.

I'm pleased to report Croft Autodrome near Darlington has settled the court case served on them regarding noise from the circuit on race days.

Annoyingly, it was brought about by a relative newcomer to the nearby village of Croft who'd bought property there fully aware of the nearby circuit.

Thankfully, common sense prevailed and although the operators have been restricted to the number of 'noisy' events they can run, they can continue with motorsport there for the foreseeable future.

The 2020 dates at the moment have over 20 car events scheduled, but just two for motorcycles.

Racing started on the Second World War airfield back in 1948 on the old runways before it had an upgrade in 1964 when it was extended to 1.7 miles, which included a horrendous chicane constructed entirely of railway sleepers leading to the demise of many competitors, myself included.

Crowds of over 30,000 regularly attended to watch the action. In 1997, it got a further upgrade and was extended to the 2.17-mile circuit it is today.

Always a firm favourite with Furness competitors and spectators, I look forward to going over for the first motorcycle event of 2020 on the weekend of April 4 and 5 with the North East Motorcycle Racing Club.

Unfortunately, the future does not look as bright for our nearest circuit, the 1.5-mile Aintree circuit situated inside the Grand National course, which has seen both car and motorcycle racing there for over 60 years.

Following a serious incident there last year, the ACU has insisted on expensive track resurfacing and the erection of more safety fencing which run into thousands of pounds.

The club at the moment are negotiating with other interested parties to see if funds can be raised between them and are still awaiting the outcome of a court case where an injured rider is claiming compensation for serious injuries he sustained whilst racing there.

Let's hope some agreement can be reached to allow racing to continue at this iconic venue.

* Barrow's youngest racing motorcyclist, five-year-old Travis Shaw, son of Danny Shaw who's racing achievements are well documented, is learning that although motorcycle racing can be both exciting and exhilarating, it can also be painful.

He took two tumbles whilst racing at the K4 Karting centre at Swindon recently.

Thankfully, he was uninjured and his tuned 40cc Mini Moto machine was not too badly damaged. The plucky youngster soon remounted and went chasing after the pack.

The following day, competing on a wet track at Tattersall in Lincolnshire, he took another fall during practice.

Undaunted, he went on to finish second in his class in both his races. He'll collect his awards at the final round of the championship at the Stretton track in Lincolnshire on Dec 28, where no doubt he'll be aiming to pick up even more silverware.

* The winter motorcycle show scene kick-starts next month with the Winter Classic Motorcycle show at Newark Showground on Jan 11 and 12.

If you are in that area, it's certainly worth a visit. All the exhibitors are housed indoors, with two areas set aside for private entries alongside the many motorcycle and scooter clubs.

My chance to 'name drop' here, former Grand Prix and World Superbike star Frankie Chilli is guest of honour and will be doing live interviews on stage each day.

Three years ago, I was honoured to take part in a few demonstration laps in the Isle of Man with Frankie and a few other top riders. I can assure you they still don't hang about when they get on a racing motorcycle.

* Looking for somewhere to go tonight with fellow motorcycle enthusiasts?

The Furness branch of the Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club are holding their Christmas Quiz night at their HQ, the Newton Arms in Dalton, starting at 8pm.

The club, who cater for owners of Japanese machines over 15 years old, meet up there on the last Thursday of every month and new members are always welcome.

So, why not pop along and pit your motorcycling knowledge against like-minded enthusiasts? You'd be made most welcome.

The club are also holding their next 'Tiddler Run' for smaller capacity Japanese machines on New Year's Day at 1-0pm from the Newton Arms.

Riders of larger capacity machines are welcome to join them, but it will be at a leisurely pace.