THE Isle of Man was given the top spot and achieved significant publicity when Motorcycle Live 2011 ended with ‘Mad Sunday’ – a full day dedicated to the Isle of Man TT.

Fans arrived at The NEC in Birmingham in huge numbers, to see a host of TT stars who turned out for the final day of the show, including 17-times TT winner John McGuinness, Michael Rutter, Michael Dunlop, Bruce Anstey, Ian Lougher, Conor Cummins, Ryan Farquhar, Jamie Hamilton, Jenny Tinmouth, Bruce Anstey, Dave Molyneux, John Holden and Andy Winkle. New Honda BSB signing Michael Laverty and Moto2 star Bradley Smith also made an appearance. 

The TT contingent took part in specially-themed Q&A sessions with James Whitham and the Fast Bikes Questions of Bikes quiz with Steve Parrish. Bradley Smith appeared on the Blackhorse stage to draw the winning ticket for the annual Riders for Health raffle – the prize for which was a Yamaha XT660Z Ténéré. He was then presented with a surprise helmet-shaped birthday cake courtesy of Shoei to celebrate turning 21 tomorrow. 

The day ended with a mass autograph signing session from the TT stars which lasted well over an hour as fans queued to collect a final memento of what had been a fantastic event. 

“What a brilliant way to end the show”, said Finlay McAllan, managing director of event organisers, MCI Exhibitions. “There has been a real buzz around the halls this year and judging by all the positive comments we’ve had from both exhibitors and visitors, everyone has thoroughly enjoyed it.”