Politics and clichés go hand in hand and it is often hard to have one without the other, but this week’s Tynwald can be described as nothing other than the end of an era.

After 35 years’ service in Manx politics, 30 as the MHK for South Douglas and five as an MLC, David Cretney took his seat in Tynwald for the final time this week.

When he was first elected in 1985, Everton won the old first division title, Ronald Reagan was sworn in for a second term as president and Joey Dunlop recorded his first Senior TT victory.

His last Tynwald sitting was marked by a speech from President Steve Rodan who said that, while there is no such official position as Father of the House, ’if there was, then the most qualified member to fill that post is the Honourable Member for Council David Cretney’.

The President recounted how the first committee Mr Cretney chaired led to the introduction of the Hypnotism Bill, which regulates the public performances of hypnotism. This drew the laughter of many members of Tynwald.

As ’Minister for Fun’, as he was often referred to, Mr Cretney oversaw the centenary celebrations of the TT, the building of the National Sports Centre and refurbishment of the Bowl, among many other roles within government.

During his time in Tynwald he asked 216 questions, which Mr Rodan said was ’impressive for someone who was a Minister for 18 years’. He also tabled 210 motions and led 19 Bills through the lower and upper chambers.

Mr Rodan added, to a standing ovation from members: ’The Isle of Man has a lot to thank you for. May you have many happy years and remember you will be missed.’

Mr Cretney thanked Mr Rodan and members and detailed how Tynwald and the island had changed.

He said: ’In 1985, we had the misery of 3,500 people out of work, from a lower working population, and virtually no reserves to speak of. But working alongside some of the Isle of Man’s political giants from the last century and in co-operation with business and trade unions, things were turned around.

’But,some things never change. The Isle of Man has always had to reinvent itself and our diversity and stability has always been a strength.’

Mr Cretney thanked his family and friends and the people of South Douglas who elected him seven times.

His final sitting as a member of the Legislative Council comes on Tuesday, February 25. Mr Cretney’s term as an MLC ends on February 29.