The Department of Infrastructure officially launched the 2013 Isle of Man Festival of Motorcycling road safety campaign yesterday morning (Tuesday 13th August) at the Grandstand Pit lane.
 
The joint initiative with the Isle of Man Constabulary continues the themes seen during this year’s popular TT road safety campaign, including the mosaic of tiles depicting the faces of the unsung heroes who work in the background to ensure races are a success. The messages “Respect our Roads”, “We all have a part to play” and “Know your limits” are once again part of the campaign.
 
A joint road closure and safety leaflet is being distributed for the fortnight-long Festival of Motorcycling, which incorporates the inaugural Classic TT and the Manx Grand Prix, which can also be downloaded from the DoI website.
 
Minister for Infrastructure David Cretney MHK said: “The key message from the Road Safety Team to local and visiting motorcycle enthusiasts is to enjoy the Festival of Motorcycling, but make sure that you treat our roads with respect.
 
“If you want to race, get a race licence and take part. Outside of racing all the roads are used by all sizes of vehicle, including commercial vehicles, so be prepared to meet slower moving traffic and expect the unexpected.”
 
The Mountain Road will remain two-way for the duration of the Festival, unlike during the TT when the road becomes one-way due to the high number of visitors.
 
It is also important to remember there are prohibited and restricted areas around the course which are marked with clear warning signs. Spectators are required to keep clear of these areas for their own safety and that of the racers during races and practice.
 
The Road Safety Team promotions vehicle will be present at a number of locations during the fortnight, including the VMCC Festival of Jurby on Sunday, 25 August, the Grandstand in Douglas on Saturday, 24 August, and Ramsey Classic Sprint on Thursday, 29 August.
 
Sergeant Allan Thompson of the Roads Policing Unit said: “Our team will be highly visible over the festival period. We encourage visitors and locals alike to enjoy our roads, but must stress the need to show respect to other road users. Covert motorcycles which proved highly successful in TT will once again be used to deter and identify anti-social riding/driving.”
 
The road safety campaign is being backed by MGP racers Paul Smyth and Glenn Harrison.
 
Paul, who made his debut in 2009 and finished second in the 2011 Junior race, said: “We want everyone to enjoy the racing at the Manx Grand Prix and the whole of the Festival of Motorcycling and go home safely, that’s why I’m supporting this campaign.
 
“It is important to respect the roads at all times, and pay attention to speed limits, road conditions and other road users. Stay within your limits, keep your distance. As the campaign says, we all have a part to play, so please do your part by respecting our roads.”
 
Glenn, a newcomer in 2011, added: “It’s really important everyone respects the roads, especially when there’s extra traffic like during the MGP. Whether you’re in a car or on a bike, you’ve got to pay attention to others on the road, stay within your limits and remember that when the roads are open there are going to be slow moving vehicles and other hazards.”