Laxey Wheel re-opens to visitors today (Thursday)and could soon be turning once more.

Rushen Abbey also re-opens today and Peel Castle re-opened last week.

Additional Covid-19 safety measures are in place at the Manx National Heritage sites to protect staff and visitors.

MNH head of public services Gaynor Haxby said: ’The Rushen Abbey gardens are looking particularly splendid just now and we are delighted to be able to welcome visitors in to enjoy them at their best.

’The magnificence of the Laxey Wheel has graced the front cover of many a publication and although she won’t be turning in the first few days or so of opening, she is still a sight to behold.

’Engineers will be visiting the site in the next few days to undertake safety checks and tests following work undertaken last year and the prolonged break.

’The long dry spell we have had also means that there is not enough water currently for her to turn but as soon as she has passed her safety checks and we get a little rain, she will be "turnin, turnin, turnin" once again.

’In the meantime you can enjoy a relaxing walk in the grounds or a more strenuous climb to the top to take in the panoramic views over the Laxey Valley.’

At Rushen Abbey, restrictions are in place on some of the interactive features and dressing up costumes have been removed.

Safety measures include hand sanitisers, PPE for staff and Perspex screens at admission points.

The sites are open from 11am to 3pm. Public toilets at all three sites will be open.

Annual passes (£25) will remain valid until the end of the 2021 season.

Meanwhile, MNH has reported ’a spate of damage’ at two of its sites.

The entrance door to Peel Castle was damaged and social distancing signage was removed.

MNH also reported damage at Eary Cushlin, where MNH has self-catering accommodation.

MNH director Edmund Southworth said: ’ The Manx community will be saddened to hear of recent damage to our historic sites.

’Deliberate damage is a rare occurrence, yet the impact is significant.

’In monetary terms, this causes much needed funds to be diverted away from projects such as the maintenance of historic buildings in our care.

’In social terms, our heritage can be lost for future generations, having a lasting impact on the island we enjoy.’

People convicted of damaging the island’s historic monuments can be imprisoned or fined up to £5,000.