A lunchtime event in the Tynwald chamber is to take place to celebrate 150 years of Manx democracy.

It will include a potted history of the building, re-enactments of extracts from speeches and debates, personal anecdotes and music, presented by historian, broadcaster and author Charles Guard and his friends, Caarjyn Cooidjagh, Greg Joughin and Jonathan King.

This free ’Chamber Concert’ takes place between 1 and 2pm on Monday, April 10.

’The Tynwald chambers have been witness to some extraordinary events,’ said Charles.

’There are obvious ones, like the first woman MHK Marion Shimmin making her maiden speech which will be re-enacted here by Annie Kissack and the insults levelled at Keys’ members by James Brown, who was subsequently imprisoned.

’But who remembers Clifford Irving’s "whelk stall" insult or the Lieutenant Governor and Mr Delaney’s braces, or more recently David Cannan’s disagreements with Manx Radio?

’All these, and more, are part of this concert programme.’

The event was devised by Charles Guard on behalf of Isle of Architecture.

He said: ’We couldn’t have a celebration of the island’s built environment without including Tynwald.

’The iconic "wedding cake" building is as much part of Douglas as the Tower of Refuge, and is in daily use as the centre of our government. I hope this concert combines the history of the building with the history of 150 years of Manx democracy, in a light hearted, entertaining way with wide appeal.’

Although the event is free, booking is essential. It is an all-seated event, and space is limited to those with pre-booked tickets.

See www.isleofarchitecture.com/events for details of how to reserve tickets.

Security measures will be in place and no food or drink should be taken into the chamber.