Volunteer actors and performers are invited to join in with a spectacular fire show which takes place in the west of the island in the spring.

The Oie Voaldyn celebration of Manx and Celtic customs takes place on Peel beach on Saturday, May 2, and will feature a range of dramatic set-pieces, with the climax being a mock battle between the forces of Summer and Winter, taking place between two huge bonfires.

Preparations for the event are getting under way this weekend with a series of events and gatherings.

A launch party takes place at the Peel Masonic Hall on Saturday, February 1, from 8pm, where anyone who would like to take part can go along and find out more.

Lead organiser John Shakespeare said that they need volunteers to perform the roles of some of the characters in the display.

’Some of the new characters we have created for this year will be the Moddey Dhoo,’ said John.

’This will be an eight foot black dog, and we’ll need two people to wear the costume.’

The team is also introducing a high-flying raven and a representation of the huge, mythical hairy creature, the Fynoderee.

They are also looking for people to dress up as loaghtan sheep and other animals, who will run through the smoke of the ceremonial gorse fires.

There will also be the formation of the Coraaghyn yn Aile, or Voices of the Fire singing and drumming choir, to perform during the display.

The group will be led by the tribal drum teacher John Bowker, who led drumming and singing workshops during last year’s Our Island: Our World festival of music and culture.

’We have some wonderful new Manx chants especially written for Oie Voaldyn,’ said John.

’Come and see what it’s all about and how you can join in the fun.

’Also, if you have friends that have shown an interest in Oie Voaldyn or maybe are already in a singing group or choir, then bring them along.’

The Oie Voaldyn launch party is free to attend but people who are interested in attending are asked to register through eventbrite.co uk to receive a free ticket.

More details are available online from Facebook.com/oievoaldyn