No buses on Saturday, as police say 'stay at home'

Police have been telling people to keep off the roads today (Saturday), on what was set to be the busiest shopping day of the year.

They said many routes were treacherous, and were repeating yesterday’s advice not to travel unless it was absolutely necessary.

Barrack Street and Crellins Hill in Douglas remained closed (2pm), along with Christian Road and Mona Street, while Bray Hill was said to be impassable.

Outside Douglas, Richmond Hill was said to be blocked, the Mountain Road was shut and the Onchan to Ramsey Coast Road was effectively closed because of heavy snow. Brown Cow Hill in Santon and Main Road in Crosby were also said to be causing problems.

Early this afternoon the decision was taken to suspend all bus services for the whole of Saturday, with the next announcement due from Bus Vannin at 6am on Sunday. 

The Department of Infrastructure said Ronaldsway Airport would be opening at 2.30pm, having been closed all day up to that time because of the snow. Passengers were being advised to contact their airline before setting off for the airport.

Isle of Man Post said the air mail had been delayed as a result of the airport being closed, and there would be no deliveries today.

The Department of Infrastructure said its gritters worked through the night on the Island’s main roads, and would be out all day today.

All driving tests at Tromode today were called off - examiners said anybody affected would have their tests rescheduled.

The Northern, Western and Eastern Civic Amenity sites were closed for the day.

The papers were delayed slightly this morning, and the Creamery said milk deliveries may also be held up.

The Department of Health said visits from district nurses would have to be prioritised because of the snow.

There has been no sport today, after decisions were made yesterday to call off all hockey, rugby and football matches. The Junior Football League has cancelled the training sessions which were due to take place tomorrow.

Other events which were called off today (Saturday) included the Santa Trains at Groudle, Tae Kwon Do at Pulrose, and all activities at Ballakermeen High School and the Home of Rest for Old Horses.

Also closed was the Southern Swimming Pool, while the Ellan Vannin gymnastics club called off lessons and the village carol service in the Methodist Hall at St John's this evening was cancelled.

Barclays called off its Children's Party at the Onchan Fun Barn this evening, and the Rachel Wilde performer's studio and the Manx Museum were closed for the day.

Tonight's concert by the Isle of Man Wind Orchestra at All Saints' Church in Douglas was postponed because of the weather. The event will be readvertised shortly. 

Anyone who is stranded can call 619425 for help from the Island's Civil Defence volunteers.

Spokesman Martin Blackburn says yesterday brought out the best of the Isle of Man as people rallied round to beat the weather: