Onchan MHK Rob Callister, has praised the efforts of volunteers and supporters during this year’s TT.

Mr Callister, an Economic Development Department member responsible for tourism, was quick to thank the army of helpers who went above and beyond the call of duty to help make the event an enjoyable experience for visitors.

’The TT is in a good place at the moment,’ he said.

’Overall we were very pleased despite the challenges to the race schedule caused by the poor weather.’

He said staff at the Welcome Centre and Steam Packet had also rallied around to ensure passengers facing delays were looked after and accommodated where possible.

The cancellation of the Ben my Chree sailing to Heysham last Tuesday because of high winds left hundreds of passengers unable to sail and staff worked to put them up in Homestay, Snoozebox and hotel accommodation before placing them on standby and extra sailings.

’I’ve nothing but praise for everyone who rallied around to do everything possible,’ Mr Callister said.

He also thanked local residents who offered accommodation, often free of charge, to campers washed out or blown away in the heavy rain and gale-force winds.

Founders of a page on Facebook offering visitors places to stay and dry out during TT and Manx Grand Prix were recognised for their efforts when they were awarded the Spirit of the TT award this year.

’A big thank you has to go out, not just to Homestay providers but to all the churches and community centres that opened up for the TT period offering shelter and clothes drying facilities,’ he said.

’Where else could you go where people will open up their doors like that? It’s amazing and it shows the Isle of Man in such a positive light.’

In the next few days there will be a review of the fortnight. This will include input not just from government departments but also from voluntary organisations such as the TT Marshals’ Association and businesses like the Steam Packet, hoteliers and homestay providers. Where possible, improvements will be put in place for Manx Grand Prix and Classic TT fortnight which starts on August 19.

’We will also look again at revenue streams to see where we can generate more income,’ he said.

With the Steam Packet reporting increased passenger numbers - over 14,000 motorcycles and 36,500 passengers for this year’s TT - Mr Callister said he felt there was still room for further growth. Visitors from Australia and New Zealand arrived in significant numbers this year, he said, and the aim would be to encourage more, perhaps from America and Canada. The popularity of the ITV4 coverage by North One, broadcast on the continent, has also seen greater numbers of visitors not just from Germany but from France, Italy and the Netherlands.

This year’s event saw three fatalities during the racing and Mr Callister said he and the organisers offered heartfelt condolences to the families of those involved and wished a speedy recovery to those still in hospital. As ever, he said safety was continually reviewed in the light of events.

Speaking of the event as a whole, he said: ’The TT is in a great place at the moment.’