The Commonwealth Games is to return to the British Isles for the sixth time since the Isle of Man’s first involvement in 1958.

Birmingham was confirmed yesterday by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) as the host city partner of the XXII Commonwealth Games in 2022.

The Games are expected to take place from July 17 to August 7, 2022, marking 20 years since Manchester 2002, the last time the Games were held in England.

CGF president, Louise Martin CBE, commented: ’We warmly congratulate Birmingham and England on the announcement - it is a defining moment for this truly Commonwealth city.

’With its rich history, cultural diversity, youthful dynamism and ambitious spirit, Birmingham embodies all that we cherish about the Commonwealth.

’The vast majority of the Games venues are in place, and with extensive experience in the UK of hosting successful major events - including Manchester 2002, London 2012 and Glasgow 2014 - the CGF looks forward to a truly spectacular Games that delivers not only for the 2.4 billion citizens across the Commonwealth but the wider world, too.’

l The 2018 Commonwealth Games on Australia’s Gold Coast is now little more than three months away and the Isle of Man’s team of 32 competitors will officially be announced on January 2.