The Heart of Ramsey (THOR) organisation’s decision to withdraw from running Ramsey Courthouse has been described as a ’blow’ for the town by Ramsey Commissioners chairman Andy Cowie.

The non-profit group cited funding problems as its reason for relinquishing its period of exclusivity on the building, which it had entered into with the commissioners in June 2019.

Expressions of interest are being invited again, and Mr Cowie was asked how difficult it will be in the current climate to find a suitor for the courthouse.

He said: ’Time will tell, clearly it won’t help.’

’We do have a backup plan, the commissioners have been running the facility in the interim, there have been a lot of events happening and there’s been great community support for those - so it’s not like it’s been standing idle.’

Asked if the news cast doubt over the courthouse’s future, he said: ’Not at all. It’s been a vital part of the community, despite the impact of Covid-19 which toned down a lot of the events we would have held over the summer, and certainly during the earlier part of this year.’

’It’s still been very successful, the area in front of the courthouse is vibrant and thriving.’

’The farmers’ market has been a huge success, and particularly during the lockdown that space was very useful for people to be able to shop safely.

’There’s various other community functions and facilities which will be happening over the course of the year, so it’s not lying dormant.’

The Expressions of Interest process will be advertised on www.ramsey.gov.im.

Ramsey Courthouse is currently available to hire, with details of facilities found on the commissioners’ website.