The Chief Minister has praised the response of the Manx community to ex-Hurricane Ophelia.

Howard Quayle MHK said the work of the Met Office, emergency services, utilities, Civil Defence, Government Departments, groups and individuals was exemplary as winds of up to 91 miles per hour and high waves battered the Island.

Flights and ferries were cancelled, roads were closed due to high waves and while fallen trees were cleared and evening events were called off.

‘The Island is renowned for its community spirit and pulls together in challenging times such as these,’ the Chief Minister said.

‘I would like to thank all those who played a part in predicting, preparing for and helping us to stay safe in yesterday's storm, which reached violent storm Force 11 on coasts.

‘Thankfully, storms of this magnitude are extremely rare in the Island but it is reassuring to know our community is well equipped to respond.’