A memorial service for the Summerland fire disaster is to be held next week.

On Monday, August 2, at 7pm, members of the public are invited to attend the service.

It will take place in the Kaye Memorial Garden on Queen’s Promenade.

This garden was erected by the council as a memorial to those who died on August 2, 1973, when the Summerland leisure complex was destroyed by fire.

Mayor of Douglas Jon Joughin will preside at the service and the chaplain to the Bishop, the Reverend Dr Michael Brydon, will offer prayers.

A minute’s silence will be held following this.

The mayor will deliver a short speech in which he will pay tribute to those who died.

The service will conclude with the mayor laying a wreath on behalf of the council at the foot of the memorial.

Honorary Freeman of the Douglas Borough, David Christian, will read a message from Ruth McQuillan-Wilson, one of the survivors of the fire, and lay flowers on her behalf.

Following this, on August 7, a memorial concert will be held at the Peel Centenary Centre from 730pm. This will feature a varied mix of music and poetry.