Isle Of Man Midnight Race to depart from Liverpool

THE historic Isle of Man Midnight race will begin on the River Mersey next to Albert Dock tonight.

The race, which has been held annually since 1907 from Rock Ferry, is staged every year close to the longest day.

Around 20 yachts are expected to race to Douglas, on the Isle of Man.

Traditionally, the yachtsmen carry a letter of greeting from the Mayor of Birkenhead to the Mayor of Douglas.

He presents the prizes to the winners in Douglas Bay Yacht Club once all the yachts have arrived on the island.

Andrew Napper, commodore of Liverpool Yacht Club and Tranmere Sailing Club, said: “We are very excited about moving this historic race to Liverpool.”

Spectators can see the start at 7.30pm today, next to the Holiday Inn at Albert Dock.

World in Pictures, July 5, 2012: Independence day fireworks, a fashion conscious Chihuahua and a very happy polar bear (GALLERY)