With respect I'd like to add the following point to this debate regarding the 26th;

Was the 26th milestone a prohibited viewing area? Take a look at the pages below taken from the free booklet The Guide (TT 2006).





The second page shows a map covering the section from Ramsey to the Creg. The green shading depicts viewing areas. I'm not suggesting that this document is definitive but it does not exclude the 26th. I have viewed from the Gooseneck up to the 26th (2005) and I did not recall any signs forbidding spectators. My reference point is Brandywell, the outside of the bend is a prohibited area, I know that from my own experience I've been there and seen the signs, the map does not show it as a viewing point so is accurate at that point of the course. Therefore I would suggest, in 2006 anyway, that spectators were advised that viewing from the 26th was permitted. On page 21 a key to the maps describes the shaded green sections as "Spectator Areas - subject to the approval of marshals."

Therefore, if marshalls knew that the area was prohibited then it is probable that they would have policed it accordingly. My personal experiences of marshals as a spectator is very positve. They are courteous, knowledgable and passionate about the races but always above everything else serious about their duties and safety. No matter where I viewed from the marshals have always been excellent. So if the marshals did not know it was a prohibited area then who else would?

From what I have read so far I do not get the impression that Mr. Moyles points the finger of blame at the marshals. If fault can be identified I'd agree with Phil, the system was found wanting when faced with an unforseeable event.