DOUBLE Olympic gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes and three-time world champion gymnast Beth Tweddle have praised the Isle of Man for its organisation of the fourth Commonwealth Youth Games.

The games ended last night (Monday) with the closing ceremony at the Villa Marina, Douglas and the teams have been making their way home today.

Dame Kelly, president of Commonwealth Games England who visited the Island over the weekend, said: "For a population of around 80,000 people the Isle of Man has fantastic facilities that I'm sure are an inspiration for the young people of the Island."
 
She also hailed the organisation of the event which included 600 volunteers, 500 officials and more than 1,000 athletes from 63 nations.

"The event organisation has been first class and will definitely further help to put the Isle of Man on the sporting map.

"I've been really impressed with the way everyone has come together - volunteers, officials and organisers - and it's been great to see the local schools get behind the event as well.

"I've seen some great competition, loads of enthusiasm. Everyone seems really happy and friendly, both competitors and volunteers."
 
Beth Tweddle, who competed in the Edinburgh Commonwealth Youth Games, also visited the Island during the event and was similarly impressed with the games and thinks it's a great opportunity for youngsters to experience competition.

She said: "The games have been really well organised and are a great opportunity for young athletes to experience championship competition.

"I've been really impressed with the volunteers who've seemed really enthusiastic and helpful."
 
Beth was obviously interested in the gymnastics and was really impressed with the facilities.

"To have one quality facility for the size of population would be impressive but the Island actually has two within a couple of miles of each other.

"It must be really inspiring for local gymnasts and is a great set up for competition and training."