ATHLETES from 63 nations of the Commonwealth will descend on Castletown today as part of a cultural day to mark the end of the 2011 Commonwealth Youth Games.

Around 1,000 athletes and team officials will travel to the ancient capital via steam train to take part in a number of activities inside Castle Rushen.

Sadly the weather has forced the cancellation of some of the activities that were planned including a tin baths style championship, motorcycle displays and stunt bike performances.

A road closure which was due to be in place around Castletown has been cancelled.

Geoff Karran MBE, chairman of the Isle of Man Commonwealth Youth Games 2011 organising committee, said: "It's a real shame that the full programme of events cannot take place but the conditions would not be appropriate for the event.

"However our visitors and VIPs will still get to experience the south of the Island and Island culture and we have moved as much of the activity as possible into Castle Rushen itself which will offer some shelter."

The closing ceremony will take place at the Villa Marina this evening. Michael Fennell, the president of the Commonwealth Youth Games Federation, will hand over a ceremonial Quaich, which symbolises love and friendship, to Samoa who is hosting the 2015 Commonwealth Youth Games next year.

A firework display to celebrate the games will take place on Douglas Promenade at 10.45pm tonight, which is open to the public. Seven fire drawings which depict the seven sports that have taken place during the games will also be on display.