Clarkson access decision expected

The footpath near Mr Clarkson's house is not a public right of way

A decision on whether Tynwald should launch a public inquiry into a footpath dispute on the Isle of Man is expected to be made on Tuesday.

Ramblers on the island have been battling with Top Gear TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson after he closed the Langness footpath across his land.

Transport Minister David Anderson will ask members to support setting up the inquiry to resolve the argument.

Mr Clarkson has said he put the fence up near his home for privacy reasons.

Mr Anderson said: "Well I think it needs determining. I don't think there is good will between the parties.

"It needs sorting out and this is the best way to do it."

Legal advice had been sought by the government over the dispute between the Public Right Of Way Langness (Prowl) group, which wants the path to reopen.

The dispute has run since 2005.

The path is not a public right of way but is classed as a "permissive" route.