Rain won't dampen spirits at Tynwald

The annual Tynwald ceremony is underway at St. Johns.

The ceremonial occasion began at 9.45 when the guard of honour, military band, standard bearers and school students processed towards Tynwald Hill.

It is Lieutenant Governor Adam Wood’s first appearance after he was sworn-in in April but the last for long-serving President of Tynwald Noel Cringle.

Crew members from Space Shuttle Discovery, including the Island's adopted astronaut Nicole Stott, will be guests of honour.

Sadly the weather for the ceremony isn't the best with rain falling over the hill.

However, arriving there earlier this morning Speaker of the House of Keys Steve Rodan says that will do nothing to detract from the Island's annual celebration of national identity. (Play audio file)