Steam Packet release Manx Grand Prix figures

STEAM Packet passenger figures suggest the Manx Grand Prix is still growing in popularity.
Figures just released show 29,138 people sailed to and from the Isle of Man during this year's two-week event, beating 28,905 passengers in 2007 and 26,527 in 2006.

The number of vehicles carried during the 2008 MGP, a total of 8,786, was slightly lower than in 2007 (8,867) but better than in 2006 (7,940).

Although there were more four-wheeled vehicles this year than last (5,626 compared with 5,574) there were less motorcycles (3,160 compared to 3,293).

Steam Packet chief executive Mark Woodward said that, although the 2007 and 2008 figures are close, this year showed a 'substantial increase' in ferry passengers and vehicles compared to 2006.

Mr Woodward said it would have been 'almost impossible' to match the number of bikes carried in 2007, as these would have been boosted by the Centenary TT.

But the number of bikes carried during the 2008 MGP is up 18 per cent on 2006 and has now doubled from the number carried 10 years ago.

Mr Woodward added: 'This year's Manx Grand Prix was a great success. We were proud to sponsor the senior race and give our congratulations to the all the organisers and competitors.'