Kind-hearted passengers on Isle of Man Steam Packet Company sailings have continued to pledge their support to the Manx Grand Prix Supporters Club.

During the Festival of Motorcycling, crews on board both Manannan and Ben-my-Chree coordinated collections and generous passengers donated £12,527.56 – £1,500 more than last year’s collection.

Proceeds were handed over to club chairman Allan Brew.

The money will support the club, which makes a large contribution towards the cost of hiring two rescue helicopters required for the Festival, as well as assisting injured riders and families of those that are lost while competing.

Allan Brew said:

‘On behalf of the Manx Grand Prix Supporters Club, a sincere thank you to the management and crews of the Steam Packet Company for the fantastic total collected this year, as well as all the passengers who kindly donated.

‘For more than 40 years, the club has been donating money to the Manx Motor Cycle Club to help with the costs of the rescue helicopters, helping injured MGP riders and providing essential medical equipment.

‘The Steam Packet Company’s efforts really do have a direct impact on our ability to support these causes and we thank everyone involved.’

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward added:

‘Once again our passengers have shown just how much support there is for the MGPSC and the work it does. We’re delighted to be able to play our part by coordinating these collections every year and I would like to thank all members of crew and staff involved, as well as everyone who generously donated.’