THIS year's Mad Sunday has been described as "challenging but unusual" by Island police.

There were six collisions between 8am on Sunday and 8am this morning which police described as "unusual".

However police made 15 arrests for a range of offences during the same time period.

Inspector Derek Flint said: "The day was unusual insofar as we only had six collisions in the period. No doubt this is down in part to the closure of the Mountain Road for much of the day due to early crashes and then a serious oil spill.

"Such was the severity the road was unfit to be re-opened until much later in the day. Enquiries are continuing into the cause of the spillage.

"What was also unusual was the fact that the collisions we expected on the peripheral roads did not transpire. It is a bit early to speculate but perhaps people are starting to get the 'slow down' message.
 
"Unfortunately the improvement on the road was not mirrored on the festival side. In the last 24 hours there have been fifteen arrests, for a range of offences, but many around violence and drunkenness.

"However our firm but fair policing style has paid off with early intervention and those responsible for this behaviour being brought to custody for the necessary action to be taken. Several will appear in court this morning."

Inspector Flint continued: "The message for the rest of the festival has to be that we expect high standards of behaviour on the roads as well around the clubs and bars.

"This is one of the greatest events in the world and one to savour and enjoy rather than being seen as an opportunity to let go and behave irresponsibly."

What do you think? Do you think bikers are starting to slow down? Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment below: