TT chief marshal resigns his post

Rider Marc Ramsbotham died at the scene of the crash

The TT chief marshal has resigned in the wake of criticism from the coroner over the 2007 centenary event, in which three people were killed.

Coroner Michael Moyle recorded verdicts of misadventure and noted "considerable failings" in the race organisation.

Roger Hurst, chairman of the TT Marshals' Association for 15 years, said he had no option but to resign.

In his resignation letter, Mr Hurst thanked the "thousands" of people involved in road racing on the island.

Rider Marc Ramsbotham, 34, of Wymondham, Norfolk, died in a crash at the 26th milestone on the final day of the races in June.

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

I regret that I am forced to withdraw my support to the new race organisers but wish them all the best for TT 2008 and beyond Roger Hurst

In his summing up after the inquest, Mr Moyle referred to a catalogue of disasters involving marshals, the Manx Motorcycle Club and the Department of Transport.

Without referring to specific individuals, he described the positions of some of the key people involved as "untenable".

Mr Hurst, 72, revealed his decision to resign in a letter on Thursday after 33 years as a race marshal.

He said: "Having given lengthy consideration to the remarks made by the Coroner after the recent inquest, I have no alternative but to resign from the position as Chief Marshal for TT 2008.

"Huge improvements have been made during recent years, both in marshalling standards and course safety. These improvements will continue to evolve each and every year," Mr Hurst said.

"I have enjoyed the involvement and have derived much satisfaction from seeing marshalling standards improve, training becoming very professional, and the popularity of the sport growing in popularity year on year.

"There is nowhere in the world like the Isle of Man for road racing and never will be.

"I regret that I am forced to withdraw my support to the new race organisers but wish them all the best for TT 2008 and beyond."

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