Have you got your cards, roses and chocolates at the ready for your Valentine tomorrow?

This centuries-old holiday brings up many stereotypical meanings and acts linked with the feeling of love and romance.

But what do island residents think about this special day and what are their once-in-a-year traditions? We went to Strand Street to find out.

’I’m not awfully a fan of Valentine’s day,’ said Cat Turner, from Douglas.

’But I will be sending Valentine’s cards to my daughters, which has become a tradition. I’ve always done it for the little girls.

’I think every day is special, not just one day in the year,’ the 53-year-old explained.

Her friend, Gillian Faichney, 29, who is visiting from Lancaster, agreed: ’I don’t particularly think you need one day to celebrate your relationship. Every day has the potential to be special.’

’I write a Valentine’s card for the girls. I don’t think it’s one person only, it’s about who you love. This year Valentine’s Day is during the half-term and my husband will be at work, so I don’t think we’ll be doing anything too special.’

When asked what her most disappointing Valentine’s gift was, Gillian replied: ’My husband got me second-hand flowers once.’

Liz, 54, and husband Ian Barker, 56, from Douglas, often do something romantic for Valentine’s Day.

’We tend to do something every year,’ said Liz. ’Ian often gets me a card and we go out or do something at home.’

Ian continued: ’I usually prefer to cook something like steak or a stir-fry - nothing too adventurous. I’ve got Liz two dozen red roses one year and sometimes get her a bit of jewellery. If I get a card, I’m amazed!’

Liz added: ’It’s quite a nice thing to celebrate being with someone you care for, but I do think Valentine’s is better when you’re not married. When you’re just getting into a relationship, it’s a little more fun.’

Ramsey resident, Graham Jones, over-50, said: ’I don’t do much for Valentine’s. I think it’s a bit commercialised. I might send a few messages on Facebook to friends, who are from different parts of the world.

’I do think Valentine’s is important in the British culture, but not necessarily in others.’

New mum, Clare Singleton, 35, from Foxdale said: ’My husband and I haven’t really thought about Valentine’s Day since the little one’s come along. She’s a total game changer!

’We’ve dressed Autumn, who is four-months-old, up in a Valentine’s outfit and will be sending a photo of her to friends and family. We’ve used holidays, like Halloween, as an opportunity to show her off.

’It’s best to give a gift that’s thoughtful and not a possession and not from the purse.’

Ally, 31, and Rob Quayle, 37, from Ramsey, who are also first-time parents, do not think of Valentine’s Day as a hugely important occasion.

Rob said: ’You don’t have to wait for a special day to show you love someone. Does it have to be that day we have to buy them flowers or go out for a meal?’

Ally said: ’We think Valentine’s is a money-making scheme, but we do get a fillet steak in sometimes.’

Rob added: ’We also might go out for a meal, but nothing else. We’re not materialistic.’