Details for a ’considerably modified’ Tynwald Day ceremony at St John’s have been released by Tynwald president Steve Rodan.

In order to comply with social distancing guidelines, there has been a reduction in the number of people who can take part in the ceremony on Monday, July 6 but essential elements of the ceremony will remain, he said.

Mr Rodan said: ’I am pleased that the midsummer sitting of Tynwald - a ceremony with origins of more than 1,000 years - will take place on July 6, although much of the spectacle and pageantry which usually surrounds the day will sadly not be possible this year.

’I trust that the day will still be enjoyable and one where the Manx nation will come together in spirit rather than in person. I look forward to seeing how people celebrate Tynwald Day in their own way.’

On arrival, Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney will lay a wreath at the national war memorial and a minute’s silence will be observed.

The ceremony on Tynwald Hill will begin in the normal way with the royal anthem.

First Deemster Andrew Corlett will then direct the coroner of Glenfaba and the reader to fence the Court before Bishop leads prayers, a change to the usual proceedings.

The coroners will take their oaths and the Acts will be promulgated in English and Manx. Petitioners will be asked to submit their petitions in advance and any received by a date to be specified will be ceremonially presented on their behalf.

Petitions will be considered and published soon after Tynwald Day in line with normal practice. Further guidance for potential petitioners will be issued in due course.

The national anthem will be sung and the departure of the Lieutenant Governor will mark the end of proceedings.