The trams are a part of Douglas's heritage

This year 76,000 people took rides along the promenade, which is 108,000 fewer than in 1995.

But chairman of the Leisure Services Committee, Councillor David Christian, said the trams must stay as they are part of the town's heritage.

"I think it is very important that we do maintain a service on the promenade", he said.

"I think the horse trams are very safe at the moment," he added.

"We have to look at all facilities provided by the local authority, and that can range from golf courses to parks and gardens, decorative lighting, public toilets.

"Any local authority in England that provides services will tell you that 99% of them run at a deficiency, that is the nature of the beast."