Spanish motorcycling stars Jorge Lorenzo and Angel Nieto, ambassadors for the Isle of Man TT official safety partner Dainese, completed a lap of the iconic mountain circuit yesterday.

The two rode the course before watching the Dainese Senior TT from a private garden on Bray Hill.

Lorenzo, currently leading the Moto GP championship, was thrilled with his lap on a Yamaha YZF-R1 production bike.

“What an amazing experience,” the Fiat Yamaha factory rider commented. “Now I understand why people enjoy the experience of riding at the TT. I only did one lap and I would definitely like some more practice.

“I was able to make a few wheelies and wave a lot to the crowd – there seem to be so many people here. It was a very very good experience. I have read all about the TT in magazine and have seen TV programmes – but nothing can prepare you for the real experience.”

Thirteen-time world champion Nieto, who competed in the TT in 1968 but did not complete a lap, also enjoyed his return.

“It was a great honour to come back to such a great and historic place as a guest of Dainese,” he said. “I have strong memories from my time here a long time ago and it is great to come back and see the TT so healthy.

“It was great to show Jorge the TT and I’m glad he enjoyed so much. For us both it was a very special experience.”