For an island of only 250 square miles, there’s an enormous amount to discover this October.

From exploring the treasures of the Public Record Office to charting the stories of internees in Onchan during the Second World War, this month Year of Our Island has partnered with community groups from across the Isle of Man to help residents learn more about the unique history of our island.

During October, the project is celebrating the people, places and the stories that have shaped the Isle of Man’s heritage over the years.

Year of Our Island project manager Anna Goldsmith said: ’Our heritage is about more than just our monuments and buildings and we hope that this October will give residents the opportunity to discover the wealth of history that exists around every corner of our island.’

Manx National Heritage is kicking off the month with the return of their incredibly successful Heritage Open Days.

Now in its ninth year, the festival will run from October 5 to 14, at sites across the island, from Andreas to Port Erin.

The Open Day events cover the scope of Manx history, from ancient historic sites such as Meayll Hill to the comparatively modern Pulrose power station.

This year is hoping to top 2017s 2,500 recorded site visits, with more events in the programme than ever before and a number of new sites opening their doors to the public.

All events are completely free and bookable online at manxnationalheritage.im, and copies of the Heritage Open Days booklet can be found at Manx National Heritage sites and the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal.

Tickets are going fast but there are still spaces available on a number of tours including the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway stables, St Thomas’ Church and the Manx Aviation and Military Museum.

There are also a number of drop-in events which don’t require pre-booking, such as ’Building a Nation: a walk through Sophia Morrison’s Peel’.

Guide James Franklin, online and educational resource officer at Culture Vannin, believes that Sophia Morrison was a key figure in Manx history and culture, and that these walks are an ideal way of finding our more about her.

’Sophia Morrison was an important figure in the preservation of Manx folklore and culture during the 19th Century, and I am excited to be able to introduce people to her,’ said James.

’This free tour tells her life story against the backdrop of her home town and gives an insight into her invaluable contribution.’

For more information about October’s celebration of heritage and everything else that 2018 Year of Our Island has planned, call 687007, email [email protected] or go online to ourisland.im

by the Year of Our Island project team

www.ourisland.im