New format for TT entertainment unveiled

There will be some significant changes to the line-up of TT entertainment for this year's festival.

The Department of Tourism and Leisure has organised a week of events in the Villa Marina gardens, but it means other long-established features will not be given support.

Stunt performances outside Bushy's Beer Tent will not be funded by the DTL, as more emphasis is being placed on events elsewhere.

Outdoor music, featuring two high profile bands, race prize presentations and classical music will be some of the entertainment on offer at the Villa Marina.

But the funfair will not be coming to the Island during TT fortnight, as it hasn't proved popular with race fans in recent years.

Instead, the DTL has invited it to come over in the school summer holidays when, it is confident, local residents will continue to support the attraction.

Other annual favourites, including the Red Arrows and the Douglas Bay fireworks display, are also set to return.

Tourism and Leisure Minister Martyn Quayle says the entertainment for the past few years has been jaded and tired, and it was felt a new approach was needed.

He told Manx Radio:

"We've taken account of views expressed by fans in recent years, not just with the funfair but other entertainment provided too.

"We think that we've now come up with a better overall package of entertainment that will introduce a lot more exciting things than perhaps have been available in the past."