ANYONE wishing to offer accommodation to visiting TT and MGP fans has been asked to register for the Homestay scheme as soon as possible.

Homestay registration for 2012 has been launched by the Department of Economic Development to help meet the ever-increasing demand for bed spaces for visitors.

Last year more than 700 properties were registered as Homestay accommodation.

Colin Kniveton, the chief executive of the Department of Economic Development, said: "The success of the TT has been built on the goodwill and support of residents of the Isle of Man. 

"I would like to thank everyone who has opened their homes previously for their help and cooperation and it is reassuring that we can count on our residents to make TT 2012 as successful as in previous years.

"Whilst the department has made great progress in increasing Homestay availability we still wish to see more people open up their homes in order to provide accommodation for visitors."

Homestay can be offered during the TT period – May 28 to June 10 – and the Manx Grand Prix period – August 18 to September 2 – for any number of nights.

Anyone offering Homestay must be registered with the department. The registration fee is £15 and includes both events. Those who have already taken part in the scheme have been sent forms offering them the opportunity to register again.

For more information on the Homestay scheme visit www.visitisleofman.com/homestay, e-mail homestay@gov.im or telephone 01624 686802.

Have you taken part in Homestay before? Let us know your thoughts on the scheme by leaving a comment below: