This Sunday Peel Cathedral will celebrate 40 years as the island’s cathedral.

On November 1, 1980, Bishop Vernon Nicholls elevated Kirk German to cathedral status upon the sale of Bishopscourt and as a result of a public vote.

On Sunday at 3.30pm a special evensong is being held at the cathedral.

The service will include members of the Sodor and Man Chapter, the Archdeacon and the Bishop, alongside civic dignitaries including the President of Tynwald, the Chief Minister and the Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard and Lady Gozney.

Former Vicar of Peel Canon Brian Kelly will also take part in the service.

The current dean and vicar, the Very Revd Nigel Godfrey, said: ’This is a significant service and was to have been the centre piece of our celebration year as the island’s cathedral.

’However, this year has been quite different, and whilst we celebrate the life of the cathedral’s last 40 years, we emphasise that we are looking forward to the future and how we can continue to best serve the island and Peel communities in our rapidly changing world.’

To mark the 40-year celebration, director of music, Dr Peter Litman has commissioned a new setting of the hymn ’Te Deum’ for the choir, which will be sung at the service.

The organist for the occasion is Gareth Moore.

Tickets are free but seating is reserved, with organisers asking that attendees contact [email protected] to reserve their seats.