In a further boost to the resurgence of the Isle of Man TT races, Motor Cycle News, the UKs leading motorcycle publication, have rated it as their Number One event for 2006.

The weekly newspaper compiled 50 events in total, which they recommend their readers visit during 2006 and the world famous TT races came out on a top. In MCN's own words, "The TT is a fortnight of pure biking heaven and the greatest display of motorcycle racing on the planet - it's a real celebration of everything that's best about motorcycling and two-wheeled racing". Their decision to rate the TT Races as their number one only serves to enhance the profile of the event.

Indeed, further illustration of this can be seen in the placing of other prestigious events. The British Motorcycle and Motocross GP's came in at numbers two and three whilst the Brands Hatch World Superbike round, which attracts crowds in excess of 100,000, was placed number four. As well as the NEC Motorcycle show and a British Superbike round, other events to figure included the North West 200 and Le Mans 24 Hours.

Speaking about the news, which was published in this week's edition of MCN, Isle of Man Minister for Tourism David Cretney MHK, who himself has played an integral part in the success of the TT Races, commented:

"To be rated as the Number One Must See Event of 2006 by such an established publication is a terrific boost, not only to the TT Races but also to the Isle of Man in general. As a small island, we are very honoured and privileged to play host to such a significant, world-renowned event and to be recognised in this way proves that all our hard work is paying dividends. We are continually striving to make the TT Races bigger and better and I'm sure 2006 will be one of the best ever years on the Island. Recognition and publicity like this can only bring more visitors to the Island and the more people we can share the TT Races with the better - everyone will benefit, not least the economy and Island residents themselves."