Island's Chief Minister to retire

Tony Brown, who has been in Manx Politics since his mid twenties will be stepping down as a member of the House of Keys.

The Isle of Man's Chief Minister has announced his retirement.

Tony Brown, who has been in Manx Politics since his mid twenties will be stepping down as a member of the House of Keys.

He has represented Castletown for 35 years.

Mr Brown says; 'During my time in office I fully committed myself my the role and responsibilities of the posts I have held, and in playing an active and positive role within Tynwald, the Keys and Government, as well as within the community of Castletown I believe I have very much influenced how the Island, and Castletown in particular, has developed, from a period when Castletown was struggling with much dereliction within the town centre, and when the Island had very limited income and struggled to sustain its then limited public services and when unemployment was very high with individual incomes being low, to a period today where as a nation and as individuals we are relatively wealthy and the quality of life on the Island has improved exponentially.'

In a statement he said he looks forward to enjoying more free time, especially with family and friends but vows to continue his involvement within the community of Castletown.