Island homeowners open doors for youth games
More than 500 homeowners in the Isle of Man are to open their doors to provide extra accommodation during the Commonwealth Youth Games.
The government said all the homes have now been "vetted" ahead of the event.
More than 1,000 competitors and 250 officials are expected for the seven-day sporting festival in September.
MHK Geoff Corkish said: "In addition to existing visitor accommodation, it gives us the opportunity to extend a warm Manx welcome."
He added: "This will enable competitors and visitors to the Games to learn about our heritage and culture as well as sharing our way of life."
The event will see the Isle of Man become the first small nation to host the Commonwealth Youth Games.
The opening ceremony will be held at the newly-refurbished Bowl in Douglas on 8 September 2011.
More information about the Homestay scheme is available from the department of tourism.