The Centenary TT proved a boost to the charity planning to commemorate race legend Joey Dunlop with accommodation for disabled visitors to the Isle of Man.
The Joey Dunlop Foundation was founded in memory of the 26-times TT-winner, who lost his life in a crash in Estonia in 2000. Joey was a tireless charity worker, although he tried to keep his selfless work quiet.
It has ambitious plans to develop accommodation in Victoria Road, Douglas, not far from the TT Grandstand to cater for visitors to the Island with disabilities. It will be named in honour of Joey.
The site has been cleared and detailed plans are in place, and it is hoped the building work could be complete this year. However, such a facility does not come cheap and the estimated cost is now put at about £450,000.
The small committee of the Joey Dunlop foundation has worked hard to raise the cash, and despite the limits of what a small group of people can do, and thanks to the worldwide support from Joey fans, more than £300,000 has been raised.
Foundation chairman Kevin Quirk revealed the Centenary celebrations, which attracted some 60,000 people to the Island, had helped boost the fundraising effort. However, he admitted there was some disappointment not every event planned for the fortnight was well supported.
Kevin said:
‘The TT proved to be an exceptional event, and with the influx of fans the Foundation had a hectic 10 days operating the Joey Dunlop Exhibition and The Hailwood Centre Cafe.’
‘Although the Joey exhibition was unique, we were disappointed that just under 2,000 attended – however this is probably due to delayed races and good weather.’
‘The Hailwood centre was inundated, and the young staff worked extremely well, dispensing over 7,800 drinks.’
‘PokerStars R1 tombola was an added bonus to fundraising, plus we received a nice surprise from Klaffi (TT sidecar competitor Klaus Klaffenbock) who, in conjunction with Manx Gas, raised £3,200 at his corporate hospitality unit.’
‘All in all we expect to have grossed £30-35,000, however it became apparent that despite the extremely hard work of four committee members we were unable to capitalise on all the other opportunities and had to cancel our Celeb BBQ due to lack of supporters.’
‘Greenlight TV’s promo, which was broadcast via Duke, was excellent and definitely raised awareness. The Laxey Bike Show arranged by Moodey Dhoo Motorcycle Club was excellent and Andy Scullard’s ongoing support is appreciated.’
‘Once we have had an opportunity to number-crunch we will look at a way forward with the lodge, however, as usual, the message is the small committee cannot do everything and we are desperate for others to help, raise funds etc.’
Kevin added his thanks to Joey’s widow Linda for allowing her late husband’s memorabilia to be displayed at the Villa Marina, and all the Villa staff for their support.
He also thanked the Steam Packet for assisting with various travel costs, Ian Corkill 4WDVC for the loan of a van, Paul Phillips, Chris Kinley and Richard ‘Milky’ Quayle for the TT chat show, other support and such a brilliant TT. Kevin also paid tribute to the riders who attended the chat show and members of the Department of Tourism and Leisure who assisted in various ways.
The foundation’s gratitude also goes to G4S, and in particular Lloyd Mister, for help with the displaying of TT trophies, including displays that saw donations collected at the Hailwood Centre and Gaiety Theatre.
Thanks also went to Lydia and staff at C’est la Vie, the Gorselea marshals and Raymond at The Newsletter.
Kevin added:
‘I am sure there are others I have forgotten and I can only apologise for any omissions.’
Visit the Joey Dunlop Foundation website