Isle of Man Tourism is appealing to the Manx community to open their homes to supplement registered accommodation such as hotels, guest accommodation and self-catering during the TT ‘Centenary of the Mountain Course’ Festival which takes place from 30 May until 10 June 2011. Regency Travel Holidays, the official TT travel agency, has revealed that they have already had around 3000 confirmed visitors for TT2011, as opposed to around 1000 bookings last year, and accommodation providers have already reported that they are full for both 2011 and 2012. Any household meeting the necessary requirements can register for the Homestay scheme following an inspection from a registration officer. Residents should note that it is an offence under the Tourist Act 1975 not to register their home whilst accommodating paying guests. Minister for the Department of Economic Development, Allan Bell MHK, said: ‘The Homestay scheme is a unique, affordable and exciting option and is a perfect way for visitors to get to know the local community and form friendly exchanges. It is a fantastic opportunity and also has the benefit of learning about the Manx way of life from knowledgeable local residents. ‘I would like to thank all those who have already registered to open up their homes to our visitors for the TT ‘Centenary of the Mountain Course’ Festival. I am delighted that forward bookings for the Festival are already up on last year but we do, however, still need more accommodation for the many visitors to the Island during this particularly busy time of the year.’ Anyone wishing to register for the scheme is urged to do so early as a cut off date will be announced in due course. For more information contact Pippa Gilbert, Tourism Homestay Officer on 01624 686802 or email homestay@gov.im. Ends