Isle of Man Tourism will be closing the registration process for the 2011 Homestay Scheme on Monday 23rd May, leaving householders just one more week to register. Anyone interested in registering their property as accommodation for TT and Manx Grand Prix visitors must do so by the 23rd, or they will not be permitted to register until the scheme re-opens for 2012. Department of Economic Development Member with responsibility for Tourism, Geoff Corkish, MBE, MHK, is encouraged by the response so far. He said: ‘The Homestay scheme is closing imminently and I wish to thank the 542 homeowners who have so far registered their properties for tourist accommodation. The scheme enables us to accommodate TT visitors at this exceptional time for tourist accommodation demand. ‘This initiative has run successfully for the last 20 years and has proved to be one of the best ways for our visitors to make friends and learn about our culture.’ Isle of Man Tourism must stress that anyone who accepts paying guests into their home, without being registered on the Homestay Scheme, is committing an offence under the Tourist Act 1975. It is imperative that properties are registered so that visitors are guaranteed accommodation which is of a good quality standard and also conforms to fire regulations. Any Homestay providers who have recently taken bookings and have not yet updated the Department with their availability should contact the Homestay team as soon as possible. For more information on registering your property for Homestay please contact Pippa Gilbert on: 01624 686802 or e-mail homestay@gov.im. ENDS