Top officials meet on TT safety

Rider Marc Ramsbotham died at the scene of the crash

Top-level government officials, led by Chief Minister Tony Brown, are working to address criticism of TT safety raised by the Isle of Man coroner.

Michael Moyle noted "considerable failings" in the race organisation at the inquest into the deaths of three people at the Centenary event.

A working group is now aiming to ensure "clear lines of responsibility" over the TT races and public safety.

Mr Brown said it was essential issues raised by Mr Moyle were addressed.

Rider Marc Ramsbotham, 34, of Wymondham, Norfolk, died in a crash on the final day of the races in June 2007.

Spectators Dean Jacob, 33, of Kidderminster, and Gregory Kenzig, 52, from Australia, were also killed.

Misadventure verdicts

Mr Jacob and Mr Kenzig had been standing in a prohibited area but there were no warning signs.

Mr Moyle said had they been enforced the spectators might still be alive.

The government working group, made up of the ministers and chief executives of the departments of tourism, transport and home affairs, met for the first time on Wednesday.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Brown took the opportunity to confirm that the Department of Tourism and Leisure was the department responsible for future TT events.

Mr Brown said: "The coroner's inquiry into this tragedy has raised a number of issues which have to be taken very seriously, notwithstanding the fact that some changes have already been made.

"Given the importance of public safety, and the importance of the TT Races, it is essential that government addresses these matters in a co-ordinated way to make sure that we have the right structures, training and precautions in place for the future."

Mr Moyle recorded verdicts of misadventure into the deaths of the three men in his summary last week.

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