An annual commemoration of the death of Illiam Dhone was reduced this year in the face of the on-going coronavirus pandemic.

A small group of people attended the ceremonial wreath laying at Hango Hill the site where Illiam Dhone, regarded as a true patriot and martyr to the Manx cause by nationalists today, was executed in 1663.

The event, organised by Mec Vannin, has become a focal point of the Manx nationalist calendar and one where pro-Manx views can be put forward and discussed and hears orations in both English and Manx Gaelic.

However, with the event usually being attended by a large crowd of people, the organisers felt that it wouldn’t be appropriate to hold a gathering, particularly in the face of the most recent scare.

’We did not encourage people to come and had no post wreath-laying event organised,’ said Mark Kermode, chairman of Mec Vannin.

’This decision was actually taken at the end of November as it became clear that the risk of a second outbreak grew.

’Our cautiousness has, unfortunately, been vindicated.

’We sincerely hope we don’t have to be similarly cautious next year.’

Stewart Bennett laid the wreath and read a brief remembrance in Manx, before the Manx National anthem was sung in Manx Gaelic by the 15 or so people in attendance.