Too early to assess FoM impact, says chief minister

There's optimism in government the Island's new Festival of Motorcycling has been a hit with bikers, generating a subtantial increase in visitor numbers.

But the value to the Manx economy has yet to be assessed.

More bikers appear to have come to the Isle of Man than in previous years for the Manx Grand Prix - but possibly for shorter stays.

And it's yet to be seen how the reduced MGP will play in the new model, largely centred on the long bank holiday weekend.

Chief Minister Allan Bell says early indications suggest a fertile new market is being tapped - but it's too early to reach a final verdict: