ORGANISERS of the iconic Millport Scooter Rally are hoping to bring the popular event back with a bang after a two year absence.

The rally weekend was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to pandemic restrictions, with the last one taking place in 2019.

Enthusiasts travel to the island from all over the UK to share their passion with fellow riders across a weekend that provides a huge boost to the local economy.

Last year organisers said they did 'all they could' for the rally to go ahead, but were forced to rearrange for later this year due to rules around lockdown.

The weekend features live music in a number of local bars and venues, including the DA Hall and Garrison House marquee. DJs that played the rally in 2019 included Archie Paterson, Jake Rikby, Carnabay, Digger and Tam Clark.

The event also includes a custom show and scooterist market, which is hugely popular among visitors.

Back in 2018, around 120 scooters took part in a ride around the island - and organisers are hoping that the 2022 return of the favourite can be equally as popular.

Organisers say early planning is underway for this year’s event - with the safety of visitors their top priority.

A spokesperson said: “We will be following all the government guidelines but we can’t at this time say what will be put in place.

“However we will do everything in our power to keep everyone safe while staging an enjoyable event that mirrors what we had in 2019."

Well-kent islander Suki McGregor says the rally provides a huge boost to Millport.

She said: “The atmosphere is fantastic. The people who travel to visit are such a great bunch and are certainly bring a welcome boost to the local economy, which depends so heavily on visitors.

“Both the Twa Dugs and The Tavern Bar had live music over the weekend of the last rally and everyone really got into the spirit of things.

“Even the local butchers stayed open until midnight to supply everyone with their homemade pies and pastries.”

This year’s event is provisionally scheduled to take place from August 26 to 28 at three venues across the island.

The rally will include camping, custom show, trade stalls and the legendary Sunday Session to close the weekend.