A new race control headquarters for the Southern 100 will be ready for use by Easter next year.

Local companies have assisted with the project.

Southern 100 Chairman George Peach said: “It’s naturally imperative for our race meetings that we have a fully working race control and the former portacabins served us well but had come to their end of working life.

“The new set-up also has a staircase inside which makes it more secure and was another reason why we had to invest in a new control hub.

“Once again we would like to thank the Steam Packet Company and Manx Independent Carriers for helping us out and delivering the cladding to us. Their support is invaluable.”

Michael Coleman, Managing Director of Manx Independent Carriers, added: “The Southern 100 races are a great asset to the island and we are pleased to help the committee in any way we can.”

Steam Packet Company figures in the lead up to and during this year’s four-day racing event were encouraging.

The total number of vehicles brought to the island increased by just under one per cent, maintaining last year’s significant growth.

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward added: “Everyone at the Southern 100 works incredibly hard to put the races on.

“We’re proud to have been title sponsor since 1999 and always keen to help the organisers when we can.

“The new race control headquarters will allow the willing band of officials and volunteers to continue their work which is testament to the increasing popularity of racing at Billown.

“It is clear the Southern 100 is growing and a real asset to the Isle of Man’s visitor economy.”