THE Joey Dunlop Foundation welcomed the first ever guest to its holiday accommodation for disabled people in August.
Graham Bean, who is the magazine editor and press officer for the TT Supporters' Club, enjoyed a week-long stay at Braddan Bridge House.
Mr Bean, 57, has multiple sclerosis and has been in a wheelchair for 16 years.
Originally from the Island, he lives in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, and stayed at the accommodation with his friend Tony Phillips and Tony's son Robert.
The balcony of the property was an ideal spot for them to watch the Manx Grand Prix practices.
Mr Bean had been hoping to come to the Island for this year's TT but there is a lack of suitable accommodation to meet his needs.
He even wrote to Chief Minister Tony Brown to highlight the plight of disabled people who want to visit the Island.
However, the Joey Dunlop Foundation was able to open its doors to Mr Bean for the Manx Grand Prix. The property had its official opening at the TT - by 15-times TT winner John McGuinness and Joey's widow Linda - but was not ready to take guests then.
Mr Bean said he was "delighted and privileged" to be the first guest at the house and he has supported the foundation since it was created.
Chairman of the Joey Dunlop Foundation Kevin Quirk said: "We had the grand opening at the TT and this is the icing on the cake."
The facility, which has been a million pounds in the making, will be open all year round for anyone with a disability.
Disabled ex-riders will get priority in terms of staying at the accommodation for the TT and Manx Grand Prix periods.
The foundation would also like to see the facility used by children.
Joey Dunlop died at a road race in Estonia in 2000 at the age of 48.
He had won an amazing 26 races at the TT during his career and he was also known for his humanitarian work.
A group of volunteers from the Isle of Man decided to honour Joey's memory - with the support of Linda - by planning to build the holiday accommodation in his name.
Over the past decade the charity has suffered ups and downs, but all its many supporters will be delighted the house is now up and running at a fantastic spot on the TT course.
For details about the accommodation and how to book, visit www.joeydunlopfoundation.com
