In scenes reminiscent of the island’s tourism heyday, large crowds of funseekers converged on Noble’s Park for the opening of a ’splashtacular’ new attraction.

The splash zone was officially opened on Friday by the outgoing Mayor of Douglas, Debbie Pitts - and it proved a big hit with children during the sun-soaked bank holiday weekend

Representing a £188,000 investment by Douglas Council, the 144 sq m interactive water play area boasts 14 spray and ’soaker’ features with capacity to incorporate more in the future. It is located in a newly-landscaped lawned surrounding with picnic tables and benches.

Regeneration and community committee chairman Stephen Pitts said: ’Thanks to the hard work of our project team, contractors and suppliers the splash zone has been completed on time and on budget.

’This is an exciting new attraction for Douglas that not only provides fun and discovery for young children but also, with its TT and numerical theme, has an educational element to it.

’The splash zone is the latest example of how the council is committed to widening the community appeal of its flagship and award-winning green space, Noble’s Park, where we are also investing in a new £195,000 skate park.’

He added: ’Importantly, these initiatives are also fundamental to the council’s corporate plan, which pledges to create a town that is a desirable place to live, work and visit.’ The splash zone has disabled access and is open from 11am to 7pm daily until September 16.