The Liberal Vannin Party is here for the long-term and will overcome recent difficulties, according to chairman Kate Beecroft.

The organisation's executive was criticised earlier this week after six of its elected local authority members resigned from the party.

However, Mrs Beecroft says events of the last few days have only strengthened the LVP.

She is also accusing the members who have resigned of "using" the party.

Mrs Beecroft (pictured) told Manx Radio:

"When they wanted Liberal Vannin support, when they wanted to be Liberal Vannin representatives at the last elections they came to the meetings, but they have rarely been seen since then.

"They have been told if they can't get to the meetings and they want to get information, or they want to put forward suggestions, they should go to their branch chair.

"They haven't bothered doing that."

There will be more of that interview on Mandate, from 7.30 this morning.