Tynwald Day celebrations will be low key this year despite the removal of social distancing restrictions.

Organisers say the guidance was changed too late for them to reverse the amended schedule for today (July 6).

Instead, residents are being urged to mark ’Tynwald Day Your Way’ with ideas available online.

In a statement, the Tynwald office said: ’The removal of the requirement to be socially distant may mean that you might now be considering whether to watch the ceremony at St John’s.

’However, the removal of the restrictions has not come in time for the infrastructure, which helps the Manx public to view the ceremony in comfort, to be arranged for July 6.

’Please note that there will be no grandstand seating this year and car parking will be limited to the small number of car parks ordinarily in operation in St John’s.’

The modified Tynwald ceremony will start at 10.30am.

There will be no public entertainment and the Tynwald fair has been cancelled.

Petitions of redress will be presented to Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney by clerk of Tynwald Roger Phillips, rather than in person.

Tynwald president Steve Rodan said: ’It is understandable that the absence of entertainment and facilities at St John’s may mean that people choose to stay at home on their national day holiday - celebrating Tynwald Day Your Way.

’I look forward to seeing how the resilient Manx people mark the day with the family and friends they can now join together with. I wish everyone a happy Tynwald Day, wherever you are.’

The Manx flag will be honoured at a ceremony in New South Wales on Sunday (July 5). It is taking place at the Australian Standing Stones Monument which recognises Australia’s Celtic pioneers.

Mr Rodan said: ’To honour the Manx flag on our national day is truly touching and I have sent warm greetings to those carrying out the ceremony.’ The island was due to be celebrated at the Australian Celtic Festival in New South Wales, Australia on Sunday (July 5) but the event has been cancelled due to Covid-19.

For ideas on how to celebrate from home visit the Tynwald Day Facebook page or search for #TynwaldDay #TynwaldDayYourWay

The ceremony will be livestreamed at https://tynwald.live

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