VOLUNTEERS are needed to help keep one of the Island's oldest attractions open throughout the summer.
The Isle of Man Victorian Society is appealing for new volunteers to assist with the Great Union Camera Obscura on Douglas Head.
There are eight camera obscuras in the British Isles but the Island's, which was built in 1892, is unique in having more than one lens.
The Isle of Man camera was restored by the Isle of Man Government and re-opened in 2005.
It is operated on behalf of the Department of Community, Culture and Leisure by the Isle of Man Victorian Society at weekends and on bank holidays.
Peter Kelly, caseworker at the Victorian Society, said: "It would be nice to gain additional volunteers to ensure that this piece of our heritage continues to provide pleasure to locals and visitors alike for many years to come.
"The society has around 30 volunteers but a combination of reasons has resulted in fewer being available to help at the Camera Obscura this year. In particular we have a shortage of male volunteers this year.
"Our aim is to timetable helpers to one half day duty per month so it's not too onerous. In fact it's very rewarding to work at the Camera Obscura. People find it amazing. Children in particular are fascinated that it works with no computer and doesn't need switching on. It's just a mirror, a lens and sunshine. The brighter the weather the better the experience."
Volunteers do not have to join the Victorian Society to help out and new recruits are always paired with a knowledgeable member of staff at the attraction.
Andy O'Dell has been a volunteer attendant at the Camera Obscura for two years. He said: "I really enjoy it. You get to speak to families and it's wonderful to see children fascinated by old technology that keeps them entertained for up to an hour. They get to see spectacular views of Douglas."
The Great Union Camera Obscura attracts around 2000 visitors per year. Admission is £2 for adults and £1 for students and pensioners. Accompanied children go free. All proceeds are retained by the Isle of Man Victorian Society which awards grants to renovate Victorian and Edwardian buildings and objects.
Community, Culture and Leisure Minister David Cretney MHK said: "I was very pleased when, as Minister of Tourism and Leisure, I was able to work with the Isle of Man Victorian Society and bring the Camera Obscura back to life.
"I am very grateful to the society for organising volunteers to enable the Camera Obscura to operate at weekends and bank holidays throughout the summer.
"It's a way of stepping back in time and provides an experience that has been delighting visitors for over a century."
The Camera Obscura is open in good weather on Saturday afternoons from 1pm to 4pm and on Sundays and bank holidays from 11am to 4pm. A Manx flag is hoisted to signal that it is open.
Anyone interested in volunteering at the Great Union Camera Obscura is asked to contact Peter Kelly on 01624 621733 or via email kellys.eye@manx.net.
