Gef’s Daily Roundup

Reservoirs

The island’s reservoirs are –13% down on their average levels for this time of the year. The figures were released by Manx Utilities and record levels up until Monday this week.

Lights Test

On Friday, between 7am and 8am, the organisers of the MGP will be carrying out an on-course test of the electronic red flag system introduced earlier this year 

The electronic flags were introduced to the TT Mountain Course as part of the Safety Management System to act as an additional measure running alongside the existing marshal’s red flag system.

Clerk of the Course Gary Thompson said: ‘Whilst the large square displays do not look like traffic signals and the organisers have tried to select a time that will cause minimal distraction to road users, we wanted to notify the public in advance that these tests will be undertaken on Friday August 19 at 7am and to be aware that these do not require any action whilst roads are open. As always I am acutely aware of any disruption that may be faced by the public and again thank everyone for their understanding whilst we continue preparations for the start of the Manx Grand Prix. 

‘The Digital Red flag system was a huge success and added a significant safety measure to the TT Mountain Course, but it is important the system is re-tested before the start of the MGP.’

Posties

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) representing the majority of postal workers in the UK have announced strike action in the UK on Friday August 26, Wednesday August 31, Thursday September 8 and Friday September 9.

Isle of Man Post Office (IOMPO) and its postal workers are not involved in this dispute.

A spokesperson said: ‘Whilst Royal Mail has advised that they have plans in place to minimise the disruption, IOMPO recommends all customers post earlier than planned both before and in the days following these dates. IOMPO is working closely with Royal Mail to understand their contingency plans and to ensure its own customers are as unaffected as possible.’