Scrapping this year’s Manx Grand Prix not only denied thousands the chance to watch the exciting motorbike racing, but also scuppered the chance for one of the island’s best-known musical exports to come home for a high-profile gig.

US-based bluesman Davy Knowles was set to headline a spectacular weekend of music to coincide with the Classic TT racing.

However, despite the decision being held off until as late as possible, the cancellation of the races has meant that his many Manx fans will miss out on cheering on the Port St Mary-born guitarist on home soil.

Davy hasn’t played a Manx gig since 2017 but, while he admits he’s disappointed to miss out this year, he said he understands and respects the reasons behind the decision.

’Well obviously I am disappointed, but in light of what is happening worldwide, it’s absolutely the right decision,’ said Davy.

’Concerts can be rescheduled, the safety and health of the audience not so much.

’It’s been far too long since I’ve been on the island and I’m looking forward to a time when I can come and play there again.

’I’m also looking forward to bringing my wife and our daughter over too. It’d be nice to get some family time in. It’ll all happen when the time is right.’

The lockdown has proved to be something of a mixed blessing for Davy, with some nice positives managing to outweigh many of the negatives.

He had just signed a new record deal with Mascot/Provogue Records and was preparing to record a new album in California with his band when the restrictions hit.

He was also preparing for a long year of touring and laying festival and club gigs across the world which all came to nothing when the entire music industry, as he puts it, ’came to a complete and abrupt halt’.

However, he has been able to find many positives to being made to stay at home.

He and his band have used the time to fine-tune the music for the new record, albeit remotely, working and recording at his home studio.

He has also been able to spend a lot more time at home in Chicago, USA, with his American wife Amber and 18-month-old daughter Emmy, as well as interact with his many fans across the world.

’I’ve started an online club, called Club Quarantine from my website,’ he said.

’I’ve been posting daily updates, running competitions and managing that. It’s been a lot of fun, and a great way to keep myself busy and working during the lockdown.

’Work aside, all this time at home is rare for someone who makes a living from travelling, so I’m really relishing the time spent with my little girl and my wife.

’As strange and difficult as these times are, we’ll never get a chance like this again, so I’m really looking at and enjoying the positives.’

Davy is promising to make up for missing this year when he finally makes it back to the island.

’I hope to see everyone very soon, and when we do get over, we’re going to make up for lost time! Until then, stay safe, stay healthy and let’s all be good to one another.’

by Mike Wade

Twitter:@iomnewspapers