Joey Dunlop Foundation (formerly the Joey Dunlop Injured riders Fund) acquire land to build a Travel Lodge in memory of Joey Dunlop

TT Aces assist with demolition of the property

In late 2000 a group of Joey Dunlop fans held a meeting at “The Cat with No Tail” a public house frequented by TT fans on the Clypse course near to Cronk Ny Mona on the TT Course

From speaking to ex-racers during Manx Grand Prix, it became apparent that there were no facilities at the TT Grandstand where disabled people could watch the races or practices from, and, more importantly there was virtually no accommodation available to cater for the needs of people with a disability.

After discussions with David Cretney, the islands Minister of Tourism, also a former Manx Grand Prix rider, it was agreed that the Joey Dunlop Foundation should raise money to build a Travel Lodge. This would provide much needed accommodation and if possible be located near to the TT Grandstand area, with former racers having priority during TT, MGP and Southern 100 race meetings.

It was decided that a registered Charity should be formed and a lasting memorial constructed to recognise the achievements of Joey Dunlop but also provide a facility that would be to the benefit of the community as well as visitors to the Island.

The newly formed Charity began the important task of raising sufficient funds to build a complex. It will consist of five units, three of which will be for families and there will also be a community room with on site parking

With the support of Linda Dunlop (Patron), John Harris (friend and sponsor of Joey), Jason Griffiths (Founder President), fund raising commenced in 2001, initially this centred around the TT and Manx Grand Prix. Now our band of supporters has grown and although we still have our stall at the TT Grandstand, we also attend race meetings in Northern Ireland, Eire and England

In 2004, Jason Griffiths was unable to continue as president due to work commitments and having previously assisted at various events we were pleased to announce that TT and Manx Grand Prix winner, Richard Milky Quayle has accepted the position of President. With our special tombola prize of a Joey Dunlop replica SP1, Milky attended several race events and sold the winning ticket at the Kells meeting to Jimmy Meeres of Eire

Now to 2005, it had been our intention to erect the lodge next to the Manx Police Headquarters, and discussions were held with various Manx Charities and Government Departments to discuss this. However, in January the Foundation had an opportunity to acquire land next to the Manx Prison, Victoria Road, Douglas, which is less than a mile from the TT Grandstand and paddock area.

It is envisaged that construction work will start this summer with completion by TT 2006, however it is essential our fund raising continue in order to ensure that this Lodge is constructed and equipped to the highest standards

The Foundation had an excellent years fund raising in 2004, we will be visiting the North West 200 for three days this year where you will have an opportunity to buy Foundation clothing, badges, plus purchase tickets to win a fabulous Honda RR600 in HM Plant replica colours with the famous Joey Dunlop Number 3.

Please visit our stand at the North West, TT or Manx Grand Prix and if you would like to organise a fund raising event or a make donation then please contact Kevin Quirk (Treasurer), 12 First Avenue, Douglas,Isle of Man IM26BA (email kevinquirk@hotmail.com or Barbara Wood (Chairman),71 Snaefell Road, Douglas, Isle of Man (email barbarawood@manx.net)