LOCAL residents planning to travel off-Island over the festive holidays are being urged to check the validity of their passports.

The reminder has been issued by the Isle of Man Passport and Immigration Office which handles all passport applications and renewals.

Because of the way the public holidays fall this year the office will be closed from 3.30pm on Friday, December 23, until 9.30am on Thursday, December 29.

It will be closed again from 3.30pm on Friday, December 30, until 9.30am on Tuesday, January 3, 2012.

Consequently people who intend to travel off-Island over Christmas and New Year should ensure their documentation is in order before embarking on their journeys.

Anybody who discovers their passport is out of date can take advantage of a one-day service subject to certain conditions being met.

The Isle of Man Passport and Immigration Office is located at Government Office, Bucks Road, Douglas. For more information telephone 01624 685208.