Steam Packet Company passengers have raised £6,150.89 for the Manx Grand Prix Helicopter Fund.

The annual collection is coordinated by crew members from Ben-my-Chree and Manannan on all sailings during what is now known as the Isle of Man Festival of Motorcycling.

Bob Taylor, chairman of the Manx Grand Prix Supporters’ Club, which administers the fund, said:

‘The two rescue helicopters cost in excess of £100,000 to hire in for the event and this year we were able to donate £45,000 towards this cost.

‘As the Manx Grand Prix Helicopter Fund relies totally on donations, we are extremely grateful to the travelling public for their incredible generosity and also to the crews of both Steam Packet vessels for organising this collection.’


Mark Woodward, chief executive of the Steam Packet, added:

‘It is a tremendous effort by the Manx Grand Prix Supporters’ Club to raise almost half of the costs for this vital life-saving service. As a company we are proud of the part that the crews of each vessel play in helping to raise this significant amount and of course we would add our thanks to our very generous passengers for their donations.’

For more information about the MGP Supporters’ Club and the Helicopter Fund, visit this website.

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