A hugely popular fire festival in Peel will take a break next year with a new organising committee taking the helm.

Founder and chairman John Shakespeare is stepping down from organising the Oie Voaldyn festival.

Kirsty Dencheva and Jax Keenan have been tasked with seeking funding and creating a new committee with the event set to return in 2028 on what will be its 10th anniversary.

Kirsty said: ‘John and his wife are stepping down and taking a much-needed break but they are still happy to be involved.

‘But they are two major players who have made things happen and have had their own team. Myself and Jax need to put together our team and form a committee so there isn’t sufficient time for next year.’

The new organisers will keep the same format and ensure there is plenty for children to enjoy but also aim to bring something fresh for 2028.

‘It will be the 10-year anniversary so we will look to bring in some new elements,’ Kirsty said. ‘It is too early to say what they will be but we are already exploring new funding opportunities as well.

‘It will be the same format with a daytime start to ensure children are involved - that is something we are very keen to keep.

‘For the first time in a long time the festival in 2028 will actually be on old May Eve (April 30) which is very exciting.

‘While we are taking a year off that does not mean we are not working hard behind the scenes to make 2028 the best festival it can be.’

Oie Voaldyn is named after traditional Manx folk customs surrounding old May eve, and showcases a mix of contemporary and traditional music, dance and theatre.

Performances, workshops and interactive activities all take place, each aiming to celebrate the transition from winter to summer.

The festival was first staged as part of the ‘Year of our Island’ celebrations in 2018 and has grown to become a highlight of the Isle of Man’s events calendar.

The event has grown and has attracted several thousand people to Peel each time it has been held over the last couple of years, including when it was held in May.

Organisers posted on social media on Monday to announce there would be a break for 2027.

The statement said: ‘Since we first brought Oie Voaldyn to life, our mission has always been to celebrate our island’s rich cultural traditions, and bring our incredible community together.

‘Creating this magic each year is a true labour of love - one that takes our small, dedicated team of volunteers around eight months of hard work behind the scenes.

‘Our core team, who give so much of their energy, time, and heart to make Oie Voaldyn happen, alongside their already busy lives, have decided that 2027 needs to be a fallow year.

‘By taking this well deserved, much-needed break to rest and recharge, this will give us a longer lead-in time to plan, design, and prepare for something extra special.’