A visit by the Polish consulate to the island provided an opportunity to celebrate how much the European nation has contributed to the Manx community.

There are about 2,000 Polish nationals living in the island.

The visit by consul Leszek Rowicki, who is based in Manchester, was celebrated with a reception held at the Sefton Hotel that was attended by more than 60 people.

As well as meeting some of his fellow countrymen and women who live in the island, Mr Rowicki met with Jane Poole-Wilson MLC, Chief Inspector Cathryn Bradley, Karen and Tim Norton from Café Lingo and Sue Jolly from the Family Library.

The consul presented the Polish community with more than 100 books, board games and DVDs which will be available on loan from the Family Library that already holds a significant collection of Polish literature.

There are about 2,000 Polish people living in the island, with workers across all sectors including the finance and business worlds, health, social care, retail and the hospitality industry demonstrating the success of Polish immigration to and integration in the island.

And a growing number of Polish nationals are showing their artistic flair providing a unique blend of their two influential cultures.

A government statement said: ’It is hoped that Mr Rowicki’s visit will pave the way for future closer working relationships between the Isle of Man and the Polish consulate as well as will help to celebrate Polish heritage and integrate Polish people into the Isle of Man community.’

Earlier this year, the island celebrated its first Polish heritage day with an event at Henry Bloom Noble School, in Douglas, which was organised by Dorota Bojanowska and attended by Douglas Mayor Jonathan Joughin.