Poor weather puts dampener on Tynwald Day celebrations

It may not have rained on the parade of politicians, administrators and sundry dignitaries and guests but, by late afternoon, the day became a washout with steady rain blowing in on a chilly wind.

The day had started reasonably well, with the odd glimmer of sunshine, but perhaps the forecast of rain by lunchtime had deterred many from making the trip to St Johns. Crowds were well down on last year, with one grandstand almost totally empty and the other having spare seats. A few visitors commented that they thought the lack of Royalty in attendance was a major factor. Republican readers please take note!

Few Tynwald members appeared to circulate through the fair, following the main ceremonial duties, but it is known that several had other events to attend (not least a lunch at Glen Helen).