LOW cloud and drizzle failed to stop thousands of people flocking to St John's for Tynwald Day.
It was a day of firsts and lasts for some taking part in the ceremony, while spectators were keen to catch a glimpse of the Princess Royal.
>> Watch photo slideshow of the preparations>> Watch photo slideshow of the ceremonyDavid Callister MLC has attended the day before as Manx Radio political correspondent but it was the first time he took a seat on Tynwald Hill.
Other newcomers included Bishop Robert Paterson, recently enthroned at Peel Castle, and Roger Phillips, the new clerk of Tynwald who attended as an official guest.
Mr Phillips kept a close eye on the proceedings as next year he will be one of the key organisers of the event.
Meanwhile, it was the last Tynwald Day for retiring clerk Malachy Cornwell-Kelly.
>> 10 petitioners seize right to present grievancesFollowing a service in the Royal Chapel, which was broadcast live on a big screen, the procession of Tynwald members, captains of the parishes, members of the judiciary and dignitaries made their way to Tynwald Hill.
A dozen new acts passed this year by Tynwald were promulgated in English and Manx, and petitions for redress of grievance were presented by members of the public.
After the captioning of the acts, Captain of the Parish of Onchan and Isle of Man Newspapers farming correspondent Harvey Briggs received the Tynwald Honour for his contribution to Manx life, particularly agriculture.
As always the Tynwald fair proved highly popular, with its stalls and entertainment.
There was dancing and bands playing on the green and Arboretum, model flyer, boat and railway displays at St John's Old School, a dog agility show and a display of two pitched battles by the Vikings of Mann.
At the start of the day Douglas South MHK Bill Malarkey gave a friendly wave to Liberal Vannin founder Peter Karran (Onchan) to show there were no hard feelings after he quit the party last week.
The unofficial contest for the brightest hat was won by Douglas West MHK Geoff Corkish's wife Muriel. Her bright yellow hat stood out from the crowd of mainly pale ones.
But there was potential for a clash between Malew and Santon MHK Graham Cregeen's wife Jacqueline and Douglas South MHK Bill Malarkey's wife Carol after they turned up in near matching pink and brown outfits.
Seasoned WAGS and official guests were easy to spot when they opened umbrellas matching their outfits.
>> Thousands visit St John's for Manx National Day7 June 2008HOW DID YOU CELEBRATE TYNWALD DAY?Send your comments to
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