As Mark Cavendish gets back into action in a big race in Italy today, fellow Manx cyclist Jonny Bellis is thanking him for the support he has shown during his recovery from a scooter accident in Italy last September.

Jonny sustained serious head injuries and has spent nearly six months recovering in hospitals in Florence and London.

Bellis came home to the island this weekend and, as Cav starts the seven stage Tirreno-Adriatico race, wants to thank him and everyone else who has offered help and encouragement:-