An annual activity programme has been replaced with online classes because of the circuit-break lockdown.

The Manx Sport and Recreation and Youth Service activity programme over the Easter holidays has been cancelled.

The decision to cancel the annual event comes after the island’s lockdown was extended until at least April 6.

Full refunds will be issued to parents in due course.

Children and families will still be able to access fun-filled classes using Zoom, with sessions covering everything from dance and yoga to bottle flip challenges.

The Manx Sport and Recreation service will be hosting three live sessions a day for two weeks at 10am, 12pm and 2pm, starting on Monday, March 29 - excluding Bank Holidays.

MSR

The MSR team and Youth Service under normal circumstances usually deliver an activity programme of events during school holidays to help improve children and young people’s physical and mental health, also developing important social skills.

Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Dr Alex Allinson said: ’I am very sorry that due to the current outbreak we have been forced to cancel these activities but I am delighted that the Manx Sport and Recreation team will replace its usual programme with a range of online fitness, exercise and sports skill classes that people can enjoy from their home for free.

’Staying active is important for our physical and mental wellbeing and we hope this will help support young people and their families in these challenging times,’ he added.

Those awaiting refunds should receive them within five working days, but it can take up to 10 working days depending on the card provider used.

If you have any queries, or do not receive your WorldPay email by the end of the week please email [email protected].

l Information about the classes and for timetables are available online at: https://msr.gov.im/media/1978/easter-holiday-zoom-activities.pdf.