This year’s Tynwald Day celebrations on Tuesday July 5 will celebrate the Isle of Man’s unique parliamentary democracy and national pride with a compelling mix of tradition and technology, entertainment and attractions. The formal proceedings of the open-air Tynwald ceremony will be followed by a packed programme of events offering a memorable day out and fun for all the family, including an opportunity to learn about Manx National’s Heritage’s new iMuseum. National Day at St John’s will celebrate Manx heritage, music and dance and bring together a range of volunteer and enthusiasts’ organisations. There will also be an opportunity to win ?100 by entering the Tynwald Day competition complete with the now traditional President’s question. Competition entries should be posted in the special post box which, this year, will be located at the Tynwald stall on the fair field. In a change to recent years the Beat Retreat will take place at the war memorial on Douglas promenade, commencing at 7.15pm. In consequence the Tynwald Day celebrations will be brought to a close by the Ellan Vannin Pipes and Drums on Tynwald Hill at 10.30pm. President of Tynwald, Noel Cringle OBE MLC said: ‘Our National Day, July 5th, gives the Island a unique opportunity to express its pride in our culture, society, historic roots and strong parliamentary democracy. Thanks are due for the enthusiasm and support of many who gather to bring their own expertise to help make the day exciting and successful. ‘This year will again see many organisations, schools and individuals performing in the day-long celebrations. The fair field will have its usual busy activity, the afternoon and evening will showcase many of the Island’s bands and groups and will feature before pipe down on the hill by the Ellan Vannin Pipes and Drums, a concert by the visiting Campbeltown brass band. ‘This year it is not only an especial honour to welcome to our celebrations those who have flown in space but also for us to be afforded the opportunity to trace our ancestry through the launch of the Manx National Heritage iMuseum.’ ‘Looking back to look forward makes the Isle of Man a proud nation with a secure future. Enjoy our National Day.’ Tynwald Day events co-ordinator Laurence Skelly added: ‘I am looking forward to an exciting Tynwald Day of festivities. National Day celebrations in St John’s include the popular Grand Manx Dance once again and Musicfest with 17 different musical groups performing during the day and into the evening.’ Once again the BBC will be streaming live coverage of Tynwald Day at http://www.bbc.co.uk/tynwaldday/. Tynwald Day is central to Manx National Week which this year takes place from July 2 to July 10. The Tynwald Day leaflet, which features details of Manx National Week events Island-wide, will be distributed in the Isle of Man Courier of the week commencing June 27 and can be downloaded from www.tynwald.org.im. Copies of the leaflet can be obtained from the Tynwald Library in the Legislative Buildings, Finch Road, Douglas and will also be available on the day at the Tynwald stall on the fair field. ENDS