A surprise party was held for union boss Eric Holmes on his retirement from Unite.

Mr Holmes, who is taking early retirement as regional officer, was joined by past and present colleagues for his send-off.

And he was presented with a turbo charger mounted on a wooden plinth by David Adamson, secretary of the Isle of Man Trades Union Council.

Debbie Halsall took over as Unite’s regional officer on July 31.

Mr Holmes took the decision to step down early on health grounds. He has been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and suspects his condition has been brought on by his exposure to asbestos.