Police issue update on graffiti at ancient Isle of Man monument

Police are investigating an incident of graffiti at one of the Isle of Man’s historic monuments and have issued an appeal for information.

Extensive graffiti was spray-painted on the walls of the summerhouse at Hango Hill, near Castletown, in an incident which was reported to the Isle of Man Constabulary.

In an update to Isle of Man Today, police confirmed an investigation was under way and said an appeal for information had been shared on social media.

A police spokesperson said: ‘Police are investigating the reported graffiti at Hango Hill and an appeal for information has been issued via another page on social media.

‘We would encourage anyone experiencing anti-social behaviour or witnessing criminal damage to report it to the police so appropriate action can be taken.’

The update comes after Manx National Heritage (MNH), which cares for the site, urged members of the public not to attempt to remove the graffiti themselves.

The organisation warned that cleaning attempts could cause further damage to the historic stonework and said it would begin carefully removing the paint once it had received clearance from police.

Hango Hill is one of 17 Ancient Monuments cared for by MNH and has significant historical importance.

The site dates back to the Bronze Age, when it was used as a burial mound, and later became a place of execution during the Viking Age.

It is perhaps best known as the location where Illiam Dhone, also known as William Christian, was executed in 1663.

The graffiti has affected the walls of the summerhouse at the top of the hill, rather than the burial mound itself.

MNH has previously reminded visitors that the historic site is open for everyone to enjoy and asked people to help protect the island’s heritage by treating it with respect.