The North Atlantic Native Sheep and Wool Conference is coming to the island for the first time and will see 130 delegates from around the world enjoying ’all things Loaghtan’.

Although it is now in its seventh year, this is the first time the island has hosted this prestigious event, which opens on Thursday.

It will be an opportunity to showcase not just products and artwork made from our native breed wool but also the island itself.

Organisers hope that some of the ideas which arise from the conference will lead to solutions to the pressing problems of the sheep and wool industry.

The delegates will have a chance to tour the island, visit flocks of Loaghtan sheep and take part in workshops.

They will also be able to visit an exhibition which opened on Saturday at the Hodgson Loom Gallery which is dedicated to all things Loaghtan.

Organiser Julia Ashby Smythe said: ’This is ready for delegates when they arrive this week.

’It’s a cornucopia of wooliness including ceramic sculptures, wall hangings, mixed media photography, embroidery and felting.

’There is a fantastic Loaghtan monkey, embroidered birds and a full set of Santa’s reindeer in Loaghtan wool.

’There’s also a whole flock of sheep in wool and a stunning ram’s head called "Ramon".

’I am delighted to see how much Loaghtan loveliness there is!’

The exhibition is open until October 28.

Other events which are being held include craft fairs at Laxey Working Men’s Club on Friday and at the iMuseum on Friday and Saturday and an international fashion show hosted by University College Isle of Man.

The students are involved in all aspects of the event such as catering, modelling, hair and beauty preparation, photography and in designing some wonderfully creative outfits.

All of the other items being modelled have been designed and made by overseas delegates and local designers.  

Further details of events can be found the conference website www.viking-sheep.org