Arbory Parish’s huge annual gathering is at Laa Columb Killey this Thursday, June 27.

Organisers always eye the weather forecast as, in some previous years conditions have been, to say the least, challenging, but the forecast is for it to be fine and warm.

Established more than 100 years ago, Laa Columb Killey is held on the Thursday nearest the anniversary of the date St Columba died. The format follows a time-honoured schedule with exhibitions, sports, attractions, arts and crafts and competitions for everyone

After a procession from the parish hall to the fair field, opposite the school, the event will be opened at 2.45pm by Heather McKenna and the festival princess will be crowned.

Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band will play and there is Manx dancing.

Entrance to the festival is £2, which includes a copy of the programme.

The marquee exhibition tents will be open to view many entries in various classes of competition, from arts and craft to vegetables.

Sports are from 3.30pm, races for seniors at 7pm.

At the tea tent sandwiches and cakes will be sold.

Entry to the tent is an extra £6 for adults and £3 for children. Tickets are at the entrance to the festival.

There are many attractions including a coconut shy and bouncy castles.

The auction is at 7.15pm.

On Friday, the Tarroo Marro Ceilidh Band plays at the ceilidh from 6.30pm to 9pm (£2 for under 18s, £3 for over 18).

Any volunteers able to help with all aspects of setting up and clearing away the event should go to Friary farmyard in Ballabeg from 6pm tonight (Tuesday) or go to the fair field at about 6.30pm.

Help may also needed on Wednesday evening, Friday and Saturday or the following Monday.