Three key workers from Swansea have been handed a suspended sentence for failing to isolate when they arrived in the Isle of Man.

Peter Ian James, aged 61, of Spencer Terrace, Swansea, Robert Lloyd Ferguson, aged 55, of Graig Newyn, and David Wynn Lewis, aged 51, of Spencer Terrace, arrived in the island on the Ben-my-Chree yesterday at 6pm.

But instead of going straight to their hotel, the court heard how the trio, who had come to work for Ellan Vannin Fuels, went to Spar shop on Central Promenade in Douglas to buy alcohol. The three men wore masks in the shop.

Members of the public reported them, after noticing their masks and their vehicle’s UK registration, and they were subsequently arrested.

James’ occupation was given as a health and safety person while Ferguson and Lewis were described as fitters.

Under the regulations, the three were only permitted to travel between the Empress Hotel in Douglas and EVF in Peel while in the island.

James was represented by Matthew Wilshaw, Lewis was represented by David Clegg and Ferguson was represented by Paul Rodgers.

All three defendants said they thought it was permitted to go to a shop on the way to the hotel.

They appeared via video link from police headquarters in Douglas wearing face masks this afternoon and were sentenced to 14 days custody, suspended for 12 months, by magistrates after all three pleaded guilty to failing to comply with a Covid-19 restriction under the emergency powers act.

Magistrates cited grounds to suspend as the limited time they were in contact with the public and the fact they wore masks.

They were also fined £500 each.