MANX National Heritage is holding a Stargazing at the Abbey event to mark the 50th anniversary of the first man in space.

The fine dining and stargazing experience will be held on Thursday, April 14, and will be hosted by local astronomer Howard Parkin.

Stargazers will receive a welcome drink and three course dinner, with coffee, at The Abbey Restaurant which will be followed by guided stargazing in the Rushen Abbey grounds.

Howard said: "This month sees a very important anniversary in the history of space exploration. The 50th anniversary of the first man in space - the Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin on April 12, 1961.

"Hopefully if skies are clear we will take the opportunity to use the dark surroundings of Rushen Abbey to look at the constellations of Leo, Virgo and the other stars of springtime. This may include the opportunity to see the magnificent sight of Saturn and its ring system."

If the weather is cloudy there will be a presentation on the Manx skies from within the Abbey Restaurant and a discussion on the significant role of the Isle of Man in space commerce. This will be followed by a question and answer session with Howard.

Tickets for this event cost £50 and are available at the Manx Museum Heritage Shop or www.manxheritageshop.com. Pre booking is essential. The event will start at 7.30pm with dinner served at 8pm.