The Joey Dunlop Foundation has thanked the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company for its continued support in 2015 as the charity prepares for a busy winter.
As in previous years, the Steam Packet Company once again assisted Foundation members with travel costs to attend fundraising events in the UK and Northern Ireland.
In addition, Steam Packet Holidays again promoted travel packages including return ferry transport and accommodation at Braddan Bridge House, which has specially-adapted apartments for disabled visitors to the Island. The promotion ensured increased awareness of the adapted apartments among potential visitors and made planning a trip easier by combining travel and accommodation in one simple booking.
Kevin Quirk, of the Joey Dunlop Foundation, said: ‘Since our inception, fundraising has been ongoing both on and off the Isle of Man. We have received significant support from Isle of Man Steam Packet Company during this time, which has allowed the JDF to have a presence at the North West 200, Ulster GP and various motorcycle shows in England.
‘With the majority of our guests travelling to the Island in a car, we have appreciated the support and assistance of Brian Convery and his team at Steam Packet Holidays.’
The apartments opened five years ago, the culmination of fundraising efforts in memory of road racing legend and 26-times TT winner Joey Dunlop. Situated alongside the TT course at Braddan Bridge, the apartments provide holiday accommodation for people of all ages and with a wide range of special requirements.
Summer occupancy levels this year were up 20% to 80%, with Braddan Bridge House almost full in June, July and August. The JDF has announced plans to extend the facilities with additional apartments ready for summer 2016.
Kevin said: ‘When the idea of building our apartments were first discussed in 2004, we believed that they would be popular. However demand has far exceeded our wildest expectations. Our facilities are a jewel in the crown for Manx tourism and we are determined to ensure that the additional apartments will be designed and equipped to the highest of standards, while remaining at an affordable price.’
JDF Chairman John Watterson added: ‘As we move to the next stage of the evolution of Braddan Bridge House and JDF, I have to record the Foundation’s heartfelt thanks to all those who, like the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, assist and work with JDF. We are determined that the Foundation will continue to provide accommodation with joy and happiness for all those who use the facilities, and honour the generous support our fundraising campaigns and activities receive by continuing to be a market leader in the provision of specialist holiday accommodation.’
Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: ‘The JDF has done great work over the years to provide a much-needed facility. A key part of our role in Island life is to help support the continued growth of tourism, and Braddan Bridge House contributes to that growth by making the Isle of Man a viable holiday option for people with special requirements.
‘We’re proud to have supported the JDF’s fundraising activities, and pleased to be able to promote the opportunities offered to visitors by Braddan Bridge House through Steam Packet Holidays.’
To find out more about packages from Steam Packet Holidays call 01624 645777.
