It may have only been confirmed yesterday (Wednesday), but organisers have known for some time that His Royal Highness Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, was likely to visit the the Isle of Man for the Commonwealth Youth Games.
He will officially declare the event open at a spectacular opening ceremony on Thursday, September 8.
The following day will see the vice patron of the Commonwealth Games Federation tour all the sporting venues and the Gaiety Theatre.
Chairman of the Isle of Man organising committee Geoff Karran says a royal presence means security arrangements will be beefed up:
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