Hollywood actor's TT visit did not cost taxpayer

The Department for Enterprise says it became aware of their interest in the event, and the Island, earlier this year and offered help with planning familiarisation visits.

In a response to a Freedom of Information request the department said: "As with any important guests, sponsors and media interests, the department seeks to facilitate any requests they may have as to meeting specific riders, teams or officials during their stay.

"As with other such guests the department will provide a tailored level of relationship management and co-ordination for the visit but the department does not ordinarily cover any of their anticipated or actual costs."

The American movie star – famous for his roles in Magic Mike and 21 Jump Street – was pictured at this year’s event watching the racing and visiting riders and teams at the TT Grandstand.

The 43-year-old actor has previously hinted to Forbes he could be working on a project that involved the Isle of Man.

The DfE says it provided Mr Tatum’s group with advice on travel, accommodation, hospitality locations, points of interest around the Island and TT Course.

It also introduced them to teams, riders, ex-riders, officials and race organisers.

Other than officer time, which was not recorded, the department incurred no costs for doing so stating that any costs were incurred by Mr Tatum and his team.  

It adds that it does not seek to demonstrate any economic value on these initial visits as they are designed to ‘enable the guests to better understand and experience the events first hand.’