After the disappointment of Saturday's cancellation due to bad weather, practising finally got underway, albeit after a further half-hours delay while marshals were moved around the course.

The Clerk of the Course announced that with the 'weather window' that was available, it would only be possible to allow the Newcomers to complete their one lap accompanied by the Travelling Marshals.

A small land slip in the Ballig area was also causing problems, clearing the mud off the road, in addition to diesel laying on the road surface at various parts of the course.

TM Dick Cassidy led the Newcomers away on the Speed Controlled lap, after the Cof C informed them that there was the additional hazard of lack of visibility on the Mountain Section of the course.

Steve Moody and Ryan Kneen had the honour of leading the lap away, as the remaindern of the newcomers, including the classic competitors who were making their debut on the Mountain Course brought up the rear.

All arrived safely back, having complted their first 37.73-mile Snaefell Mountain Course lap, heading the pack was Ryan Kneen.

So ended the brief opening practice session of the 2008 Manx Grand Prix.

Double Manx Grand Prix Winner (1995 Lightweight / Junior) Tony Duncan (TM 2) leads the Newcomers through Douglas Road Corner, Kirk Michael. (Dave Kneen, ManxPhotosOnline)

Full Gallery from Monday's practice session