TT bike sculpture art initiative to support cancer centre

The models will be put on display at TT 2025 before being auctioned

An art project set to feature a variety of decorated motorcycle sculptures to raise money for a £2m cancer support centre on the Isle of Man has been launched.

Mannin Cancers Support Group's Wheelie Good Cause appeal will match sponsors with a TT race team to create designs for the to scale fibreglass models.

The creations will be put on display during TT 2025 and auctioned off on Senior Race Day, 6 June.

Julie Stokes from the charity said the facility, being built near to the entrance of Noble's Hospital, would "make all the difference to anyone diagnosed with cancer".

She said the project had been "inspired by the the island's TT heritage and status within the sport", and the team hoped about 30 sculptures would be created to raise "a substantial amount for the charity".

Julie Stokes from the charity hopes up to 30 models will be created

Those who would like to sponsor a sculpture will be teamed-up with designers, to either decorate in their own branding or recognisable race livery.

A series of five model race bikes inspired by famous TT riders and machines from the past is also set to be designed and auctioned by the charity.

"Once you see the legends we're paying tribute to, you’ll know who they are," Ms Stokes said.

The charity has been working with the Isle of Man TT races team and the Department for Enterprise on the project.

The models will be auctioned off on Senior Race Day during the 2025 event

Construction of the support centre, which is based on Maggie's Centres in the UK, began in February and is on target to be completed by April 2025.

It would see several charities and groups, including mental health services and debt counselling services, brought together in one hub.

Ms Stokes said: "The centre will make all the difference to anyone diagnosed with cancer, and their carers, and will offer services that just aren't available currently."