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Interview with Harry Crompton about his experience as an Isle of Man Tourist Trophy races (TT) marshal

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Date(s): 28 June 2007

Creator(s): Manx National Heritage

Scope & Content: Harry Crompton talks to Matthew Richardson about his experience as a marshal at the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (TT) races. Harry talks about his first memories of the TT in 1946 when he returned to the island from serving in the navy; marshalling in 1949; camaraderie of marshals, fans and riders; working in the Villa Marina; attending the prize presentations; Geoff Duke; paperwork of riders' times and positions; boats arriving; Douglas Corporation and deckchairs at the Villa Marina for fans; Joe Loss; Miss Maddrell’s cafe; coaches taking fans to viewing spots; whistles used by marshals; boy scouts at the Grandstand; marshals' duties and powers granted; he recalls Giacamo Agostini visiting him at Bray Hill; Joey Dunlop breaking down at Bray Hill and running over his big toe (!); death of Les Graham; accidents and procedures including involvement of the Marshals’ Association; Jock West, Geoff Duke and Reg Armstrong; he talks about recording number of visitors; collecting Manx money for helicopter fund; TT memorabilia; use of stretcher, flags and fire equipment and organisation of marshals’ tasks; advent of new Honda marshals' bikes; Travelling Marshal Kipper Killip; Grand Prix; tyres, petrol and oil sponsorship; Dunlop tyres at Greensills Hotel; Government asked to improve conditions at Shanty Town campsite and to pay for competitors’ ferry fares; Bob McIntyre breaking 100mph lap; Geoff Duke; Phil Read and Mike Hailwood rivalry; memorial service by Honda team at Kirk Braddan; new Chief Constable; new team of marshals at Bray Hill; 1967 race between Hailwood and Agostini; changes in racing over the years; and he recalls his pride at the playing of the Manx National Anthem at the centenary celebrations of the TT.

Language: English

Extent: 32 min. 49 sec.

Item name: compact disc

Collection: Sound Archive

Level: ITEM

ID number: SA 0597

Access conditions: All reasonable attempt has been made by Manx National Heritage to trace and request permission (where needed) from the copyright holder(s) in this sound recording. If however you think you are a rights holder then please contact Manx National Heritage.

Subject tags : #TT&MOTORSPORT, #UOSH, #UOSHTT

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