Elections for six of the Island's local authorities are well past the halfway stage.

Polling stations opened at 8am, and votes will continue to be cast until 8pm, when Manx Radio's three hours Election Special will get underway.

It’s the second time a general election has been held for all the authorities on the same day, and early indications suggest the fine weather has encouraged people to get out and vote.

However, there was no contest in three quarters of the local authority areas, and several had to re-advertise for prospective commissioners, because there were insufficient nominations.

Local Government Minister John Shimmin (pictured) says the numbers are disappointing, though not surprising.

He accepts there is a blurring of responsibilities between MHKs and members of local authorities, but says it's something he is hoping to address (audio file attached):

Elections are taking place in St Georges and Athol wards in Douglas, Onchan, Braddan, Marown, Laxey and Ramsey's North and South wards.

John Shimmin was speaking to John Moss, live on Mandate.