Getting to the Isle of Man TT races safely

Tens of thousands of motorbike fans will be travelling across Irish Sea over the next 10 days watch the spectacle the Isle of Man TT.

The annual races on 37.7 miles (60km) of closed public roads attract fans from all over the world, with the majority arriving by ferry from either Liverpool or Heysham.

With so many motorcyclists travelling to and gathering at the ports, police in Merseyside, Lancashire and the Isle of Man have all urged riders to take steps to look after their machines – and themselves.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has urged people travelling to Heysham Port to allow extra time to get to the terminal during the busy travel period.

The ferry firm asked passengers to "please plan ahead and ensure you arrive in good time to complete check-in before the scheduled closing time".

"Late arrival may result in being unable to travel," it warned.

Using a good quality lock to secure motorbikes and parking in a well-lit area are ways race fans make sure their machines are secure.

Those riding in groups to the ports have also been advised to lock their bikes up together.

Bikers have been asked to look out for each other and report any suspicious activity to police.

As well as making sure bikes are insured, visitors have been urged to check their travel insurance covers their needs should they need medical care.

Manx Care said although most healthcare for UK residents is covered under a reciprocal arrangement – it does not cover all eventualities.

Those travelling to the island from outside UK are not covered by the agreement and should have the necessary health insurance in place as a precaution.

While urgent care would always be provided only emergency care is free, with ongoing treatment needing to be paid for.

All visitors should have repatriation cover in place - including to the UK – as it is not covered by the reciprocal agreement.

Fans travelling to the ports have been urged to "ride within your limits", sticking to the designated speed limits,

Visitors from Europe are also reminded to stick to the left-hand side of the road.

Riders have also been reminded that although it is "holiday time" for them, anyone caught driving off the ferry after drinking will be prosecuted.

After a series of accidents and arrests since the event began on Monday, the Isle of Man Constabulary is reminding people to "make sensible choices when riding".

Driving under the the influence or flouting speed limits runs the risk of of putting lives at risk and has "real consequences", it said.

"The Island continues to function during TT, with people travelling, working and going about their daily routines.

"Your decisions on the road affect far more than just you."

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