All schools and University College Isle of Man will be closed today, Friday 8 December, after snow fell across much of the Island overnight.

The decision was taken by Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Graham Cregeen after consulting with the Met Office, the Department of Infrastructure, Bus Vannin and emergency services.

Travelling conditions are difficult, and in some places hazardous, with a number of key routes closed first thing.

The safety of children and staff travelling to and from school during the busy rush hour while roads are being cleared, is a key criteria in the decision to close.

Then potential for further snowfall later in the day has also been taken into account, and an early decision to close schools for the whole day avoids uncertainty for parents.