Three giant deckchairs have been installed in the Villa Marina Gardens.

The chairs, covered with designs that are a nod to the island’s history as a summer holiday destination, will remain there throughout the summer. The hope is they will encourage more people to use the Villa Marina Gardens as a social and recreational space for family and friends.

Holding up to three adults, one features the traditional striped deck chair design in the VillaGaiety colours.

The other is a collage of images from Manx National Heritage showing the gardens and promenade full of holidaymakers and locals on deck chairs.

It has the tagline ’Deckchairing Since 1913’.

The third chair was commissioned by the Isle of Man Arts Council and designed by Jade Boylan.

It features a bright background with a set of icons depicting the different aspects of the arts sector, including music, fashion, film and theatre.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle said: ’These giant chairs make an exciting addition to the public gardens.

’Deckchairing became a vital part of our coronavirus relaxation measures, giving people the opportunity to relax and reconnect with friends and family safely.’

He continued: ’This installation really is a seamless celebration of our past and the difficulties we have overcome in the last 18 months.’

Emma Callin, head of culture and the arts, said: ’With summer finally here there’s no better time for us to unveil our newly commissioned giant deckchairs for VillaGaiety and the Isle of Man Arts Council. We hope the public will enjoy taking the opportunity to visit our gardens, use the chairs and enjoy the nostalgia.’

The chairs were commissioned by VillaGaiety and the Isle of Man Arts Council.