The Isle of Man played host to over 700 Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) members last weekend despite the complete ban of flights in UK airspace due to the cloud of ash from the erupting Icelandic volcano.

There were fears the ash cloud would affect the travel plans of delegates who had initially booked to fly to the Island from all over the United Kingdom. 

However, many members switched to the Isle of Man Steam Packet sailings from Liverpool and Heysham, and Isle of Man Event Services Ltd, the approved tour operator for the 2010 conference, reported that all the air bookings they had were found space on the ferry apart from two delegates.

The local Isle of Man CAMRA branch also benefitted from the conference with a lot of new members registering and initial reports indicate pubs around the Isle of Man saw a brisk trade in real ale.

Geoff Corkish MBE MHK, Political Member for Isle of Man Tourism, said, "We were very pleased with the number of CAMRA members who eventually travelled to the Isle of Man, despite the unprecedented situation of a complete ban on flights, and it shows just how resourceful and resilient members of CAMRA are.

"This conference has been an early boost for the tourism industry and a great benefit to the Island as many members extended their stay beyond the conference.  

"Once again, the Isle of Man has proved it can successfully stage large events, the Villa Marina has shown it can adapt and put on something special and, when matched by wonderful weather, the Island is unbeatable.

"I would also like to offer my thanks to the members of the local branch of CAMRA, who have worked tirelessly over the past number of years to put together a fantastic Members' Weekend, with the assistance of the Isle of Man conference team in the Department of Economic Development.

"Without the help of the local branch members’ successful events such as this would be a much harder task.  

"My thanks to the CAMRA Isle of Man chairman Charles Miller, Project Manager for the CAMRA members weekend Graeme Jones and the team of local branch volunteers who have made it the success it has been."

The member’s weekend incorporates the Annual General Meeting for CAMRA and included a member’s bar with Manx beers from the Island's three breweries, and over 50 guest beers, ciders and perrys situated in the Promenade Suite.

Pictured (l-r): Mr Geoff Corkish, Mr Graeme Hones, CAMRA Isle of Man Project Manager, and Mr Colin Valentine, National Chairman of CAMRA.