Isle of Man TT 2018: Prince William joins bike fans

The Duke of Cambridge indulged his passion for motorcycles during a visit to the Isle of Man TT - but confessed his wife may be less than impressed.

Prince William, who has a life-long love for the machines, was making his first official visit the island, which is famous for its bike race event.

He also posed for photographs on a high-powered superbike.

However, the prince admitted his wife may have been a little sceptical of the intentions behind his visit.

The prince tried out a motorbike at the Isle of Man TT during his visit to the island

• Dunlop clinches TT treble

When asked about the Duchess of Cambridge's views, the duke replied: "When I said I was going to the Isle of Man for an official visit she said 'really?'."

William met organisers and spectators, watched riders reach speeds close to 200mph (322km/h), and even started the TT Zero race for electric machines.

Prince William, who is a keen motorcyclist, was greeted by crowds of spectators as he arrived

He was joined by the chief minister Howard Quayle and other dignitaries.

He was also due to call at the offices of the Joey Dunlop Foundation.

The Braddan-based charity provides specialist accommodation for Isle of Man visitors with disabilities.

The Duke spent time meeting the cubs and scouts who operate the TT scoreboard.

The charity's Gilly Keown said: "When we heard about Prince William's visit we were thrilled that he has chosen to spend part of his time here with the foundation.

"We are looking forward to meeting him along with our residents. We hope he enjoys his time here."

Prince William started the TT Zero race for electric machines

The prince met officials who oversee safety at the event

The Isle of Man TT is one of the oldest continuous motorsport events in the world.

A number of lap and race records have been broken at this year's event, with Bradford's Dean Harrison completing the fastest-ever lap of the Mountain Course in Saturday's opening Superbike race.

Manx rider Dan Kneen and Scotland's Adam Lyon died during this year's TT races

However, two riders have died during the 2018 event.

Leading Manx racer Dan Kneen, 30, was fatally injured at the Churchtown section during Superbike qualifying on 30 May and Scottish newcomer Adam Lyon died near the 28th mile of the Mountain course during Monday's Supersport 1 race.

The Prince watched Harrison win the second Supersport race, and presented TT Zero race winner Michael Rutter with his trophy.

Bradford's Dean Harrsion set a new absolute TT lap record of 134.432mph on Saturday.

Prince William presented the TT Zero race trophy to winner Michael Rutter

Northern Ireland's Michael Dunlop has won two TT races this week