The Walk the Isle of Man Festival is to be staged again next year.

The event - run by private sector companies Isle of Man Event Services and Go-Mann Adventures - replaced the government-run Isle of Man Walking Festival this autumn.

Next year’s event will take place between Monday, September 28, and Friday, October 2.

This year, more than 100 walkers took part. They came from the Isle of Man, the UK and as far afield as California and Western Canada.

Led by experienced walking guides, around 25 different walks were staged throughout the week.

The routes covered all parts of the island, varying in length and terrain.

Walkers climbed hills and explored the coastline, countryside and glens.

The longest walk was 16 miles, from Douglas to Castletown, via the Raad ny Foillan coastal footpath.

’Personally, and on behalf of Dr Andrew Foxon of Go Mann Adventures who coordinated the walking programme, I’d like to thank everyone who participated,’ said organiser Sally Helwich, director of Onchan-based Isle of Man Event Services.

’The majority of those who took part were venturing to the Isle of Man for the first time, with some people travelling considerable distances to be here.

’As always, our magnificent island did its best to impress and, along the way, new friendships were forged. It was good for the spirit and good for the soul.’

Mrs Helwich added that Walk the Isle of Man 2020 would feature a number of new routes.