THERE was an urgent call for more accommodation for TT visitors in January as early figures showed bookings had tripled.

Regency Travel, the official TT travel agent, revealed that there were around 3,000 confirmed visitors for the races – triple the amount who had booked by this time last year.

Isle of Man Tourism appealed to the Manx community to open their doors to the public and invite paying guests to stay with them on a bed and breakfast or self catering basis as part of the Homestay scheme.

The scheme is used in the TT and Manx Grand Prix periods to supplement the Island's registered accommodation which are often fully booked.

Homeowners who wish to take part in the scheme can charge between £20 and £25 per person for bed and breakfast or can rent their whole house out on a self catering basis.

All income earned during the TT period is exempt from tax provided that the gross amount earned before expenses does not exceed £1,500.

The then Economic Development Minister 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 to learn about the Manx way of life from knowledgeable local residents."

Update: The Homestay scheme was also used during the Commonwealth Youth Games in September. For more information on this click here.

This story is part of isleofman.com's Review of the Year 2011.