The British Orienteering Federation (BOF) has voted to include the island as a zone for competitions.

Outdoor enthusiasts from Britain can now take part in the island’s orienteering competitions, as part of the events linked to the federation.

A series of ’come and try’ sessions organised by the Isle of Man Orienteering Klubb (IoMOK) over the summer, led to a successful championship in September, which caught the attention of the British organisation.

IoMOK was founded earlier this year to build an interest and develop facilities for orienteering on the island.

Orienteering involves running or walking around plantations, parks or the countryside to find a series of check points using a detailed map and compass. The aim of the sport is to complete the course with the fastest time.

The island’s Seven Kingdoms Orienteering Championship took place at Knockaloe Beg Farm with many points scattered around Corrin Hill in Peel.

The competition provided a choice of three courses - basic, intermediate and championship - to suit all levels of players..

Given its popularity, many competitors are prepared to travel to BOF events and the island is believed to be a great location to attract visitors. Three top competitors from the UK took part in the island’s championship last year.

The sport is also encouraged by educational institutions to help students with their literacy.

Keirron Tastagh, an IoMOK organiser who won the ’Freedom to Flourish’ category at Isle of Man Newspapers’ Awards for Excellence, is keen to get youngsters involved in future events.

’I first experienced orienteering as a Scout,’ he said. ’Back then the Scouts hosted their own championships each year. Our team from Peel won three years consecutively so we got to keep the trophy!’

William Higgins, a teacher at Cronk Y Berry School who has set up a number of permanent courses around the island, said: ’Being officially part of the British Orienteering Federation effectively allows the annual Seven Kingdoms Orienteering Championship and fun competitions on Boxing Day and Easter Monday to be part of the Federation’s calendar.’

The Boxing Day event will begin at 10.30am in Archallagan Plantation where players will see how many points they can find in an hour. Mince pies and hot drinks will be supplied at the Eairy Kelly car park.