Following the TT 2008 review, the Department of Tourism and Leisure identified a number of improvements required in 2009.

A number of key issues came out of this review concerning safety, budgets and quality. In particular there were genuine concerns surrounding the jet quad and the high powered stunts taking place on street venues.

The review indicated that whilst the fun fair was popular among our local residents this was not the case for race fans. It should also be noted that the fair paid £30,000 contribution for their presence on the Promenade walkway. However, the overall cost to Government for cleaning alone from Douglas Corporation for activities on the Promenade and surrounding areas amounted to approximately £40,000.

In terms of quality the feedback was that the street based programme had become tired and repetitive. It became clear that it was time to freshen up the entertainment and introduce new events which resulted in the Villa Marina becoming the focus of the outdoor entertainment for 2009. It was apparent that there had been disappointment in 2008 from race fans, as concert tickets had already sold out on Island prior to their arrival.

The Department of Tourism and Leisure is aware that a number of people were disappointed with the entertainment provided during the TT period, however, a great number of people did support the events and positive feedback was received from those who attended them. Racing on the Tuesday meant reduced spectator numbers at the Ramsey Sprint but despite this it was still hailed a successful event by the organisers.

Some of the entertainment, however, was affected by difficult circumstances beyond the control of the Department. The necessary re-scheduling of racing meant that, unfortunately, the Douglas Beach Race and the Villa Marina TT Party night had to be cancelled. Difficulties also arose on Friday with the Hawker Hunter Jet Display as, due to poor weather at its base in the South of England, this too had to be cancelled. However it was replaced at the last minute by a jet trainer fly past.

Minister for Tourism and Leisure Hon Martyn Quayle MHK said:

‘I would like to thank the Peveril Motorcycle Club and David Craine’s team for their hard work in preparation for the Douglas Beach Race event and regret that it was necessary to cancel. I also wish to thank the Red Arrows for putting on a fantastic show and for their flexibility in changing the Douglas display time. And last, but not least, I would like to thank Norton Racing for putting on the TT firework display.’

He went on to say:

‘I acknowledge and accept that the changes to the programme meant that there was not the same atmosphere and buzz on Douglas Promenade as in previous years and this was missed by both residents and TT fans. Many thanks to everybody for their feedback on the TT Festival 2009 and we will be announcing plans for TT2010 for launch at the Bike Show, held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, in November.’