Two charged with TT signs theft

The safety signs have been improved for this year's event

Two men have been charged with the theft of safety signs on the Isle of Man's TT course.

The new signs marking restricted areas on the TT course are being used for the first time for this year's event.

The thefts happened less than 24 hours after an announcement was made about the signs' use for 2008.

Two men, from Douglas and Strang, were arrested by police late on Wednesday and subsequently charged by police. They are due before the High Bailiff.

Prohibited areas

Inspector Will Campbell, Isle of Man Constabulary media relations officer, said the primary concern of organisers was safety.

"The integrity of designated prohibited areas is crucial in achieving that aim," he said.

Last year a rider and two spectators standing in a restricted area died and the lack of signage was criticised by coroner Michael Moyle.

The Isle of Man 2008 TT practice week starts on Saturday.