Youngsters see slice of history unfold

Pupils from two Douglas primary schools have witnessed Manx history in the making, welcoming the Island's new Lieutenant Governor as he arrived for his formal swearing-in (27 May).

In a break with tradition, the ceremony was held in Douglas courthouse - rather than at Castle Rushen in Castletown.

Senior figures from Manx political life, members of the judiciary and constabulary, the Lord Bishop, the Mayor of Douglas, government officials and cremonial staff from Tynwald gathered in Court 3 for the occasion.

Sir Richard Gozney swore Oaths of Allegiance and Office before First Deemster David Doyle, and then gave his first public address.

Children from Henry Bloom Noble and St Thomas's schools waved Manx flags as the official party arrived and departed.

HBN headteacher Ian Walmsley told James Davis bringing 270 children to the court was not the logisitical headache he'd feared: