THE TT2011 road safety campaign was launched this morning at the Creg ny Baa with a new message for riders and drivers: “Meet Your Mates, Not Your Maker.”

The campaign, a joint initiative between the Isle of Man Constabulary and the Department of Infrastructure, has been chosen to reflect the social side of the TT festival, but with a strong safety message included.

“This year’s message emphasise that we want people to use the roads safely and return to the Island to meet their mates in future years,” said Phil Gawne, Minister for the Department.

“For the past two years the campaign has focused on the catastrophic impact an accident can have by showing the scenes of devastation from the aftermath of an accident.

“As 2011 marks the 100th anniversary of the Mountain Course, we felt it fitting to reference the friendly, social and fun side of the festival.”

He said that the TT was known all over the world for being a gathering of friends, old and new, sitting on hedges, watching the racing and enjoying Manx hospitality. “We know that people really enjoy the TT and the social side with their friends and mates, so we wanted to get that message across together with the safety message.”

Deputy Chief Constable Gary Roberts said that the TT road safety campaigns over the years had been a major success and he pointed to the 2007 100th anniversary year where there were no fatal accidents and very few incidents.

“It was an award-winning year in 2007 and we are aiming to repeat that again in 2011. But we can only do our bit and promote road safety and bike awareness - it’s really all down to the riders and the drivers themselves.

“Our message, as always, is for everyone to enjoy themselves and to enjoy the TT and go home safely. We are confident the message has been getting through to everyone over the years. And it’s for everyone to play their part in making this year’s TT safe.”

He also stressed that the police would not be slow to clamp down on anyone who decides to ignore the safety rules. “We will be increasing our activity and presence on the roads of the Island and without pre-judging, we will be taking a harsh line against transgressions against the law.

“We plan to work hard during TT and want people to enjoy it. Have a safe TT and enjoy it, but meet your mates, not your maker.”