Amidst speculation that the 'TT atmosphere' has been lacking from Douglas this year, with the Promenade area noticeably quieter than in previous years, other towns on the Isle of Man have clearly not been suffering a shortage of attention.
Mad Sunday saw several thousand people head west to Peel Day while reports from Port Erin Day (Monday 8th June) have been equally positive.
Favourable, if windy, weather conditions helped to draw both residents and visitors to Peel Day's programme of outdoor events. As in previous years, there was a mixture of live music, motorcycle stunts, children's entertainments, stalls and food, all centred around the shore and harbour areas.
With large crowds enjoying the sunshine, high spirits outside the Creek, and the marina now bustling with a variety of craft, the quayside in particular was possibly livelier than it has ever been.
Inspector Mark Britton of the Western Neighbourhood Policing Team commented 'Peel Day was an excellent day and in spite of the wind, everyone enjoyed themselves. There were additional Police Officers on duty and planning prior to the event with Peel Town Commissioners.
'Approximately 3,000 people attended during the day with the highlights being the bands playing on the Promenade, Steve Colley performing and of course the ubiquitous Purple Helments.
'Everyone appeared to enjoy the day and was extremely well-behaved. Many people stayed late into the evening and enjoyed the evening sun, congregating around the Quayside. With all the yachts in the newly-finished quay, it was a pleasure to police.
'I am glad to report that there were no arrests and no issues. We look forward to welcoming people back next year.'
Lenny Conroy of Triskel Promotions, who organised the live music schedule with co-operation from Peel Commissioners, commented 'Bands battled the elements to ensure a full day's music programme.
'At midday, I am President took to the stage in quite blustery conditions but this didn’t prevent guitarist Matt Collister still being able to deliver some solid guitar solos, ably supported by a tight drum and bass backing.
Juicy Lucy have been blazing a trail for forty years now and delivered a powerful rock blues set, culminating in an amazing 20-minute version of their top single 'Who do you Love?', which included a stunning 10minute drum solo complete with downing of pint!
'Smealien Races then played a full and varied indie rock set to a very appreciative crowd. This is a new line up with very accomplished players - highly recommended.
'Finally, Rich Little’s new project Hypno-Toad finished the day's celebrations with some hardcore funk and rock, blending Red Hot Chilli Peppers with Led Zeppelin with effortless ease.
'Thanks go to Peel Commissioners for calling upon Triskel Promotions Limited to provide the music and to Anglin, Adam and Dan Buttimore for providing the sound.'
Triskel Promotions also organised the live music programme for the Bushy's Beach Stage in Port Erin. Mr Conroy estimates that an appreciative crowd of nearly 800 people gathered to watch ska band Buncha Skankers as evening fell on Port Erin Day.
'It has been a spectacularly popular event. All thanks go to Martin Brunnschweiler at Bushys for funding all the music'.
The live bands and other attractions in Peel and Port Erin were all provided free of charge to the public.
For information on more TT events happening around the Island, visit the isleofman.com Events Calendar.
