TELEVISION presenter, journalist and celebrity chef Loyd Grossman will be in the Island this weekend to chair the British Association of Friends of Museums annual conference at the Manx Museum, Douglas.

The conference takes place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Loyd has had a lifelong interest in history, the arts and heritage and he has recently been appointed chairman of the Heritage Alliance which represents more than 75 non-governmental and voluntary organisations working in the heritage sector.

The conference is being hosted by the Friends of Manx National Heritage (FMNH) whose idea it was to bring the conference and delegates to the Isle of Man.

The event will see delegates discuss "Heritage Past, Present and Future" and will include speakers from Manx National Heritage.

The keynote speech will be given by former director of the British Museum, Sir David Wilson.

Delegates will also be able to enjoy a full programme of events being put on by FMNH, including a gala dinner, a visit to Castletown, trips on the Steam Railway and visits to Peel.

Volunteers from FMNH will be on hand throughout to assist delegates and to ensure the smooth running of the programme.

Development and administration officer of The Friends of Manx National Heritage Nicola Pemberton, said: "We are delighted to welcome Loyd and BAfM to the Isle of Man.

"We hope everyone will enjoy their weekend with us and will be able to see something of our beautiful Island and its unique heritage."

Conference coordinator for BAfM Fiona Turnbull said: "The delegates, who are all volunteers, are representing museums, art galleries and other heritage venues both large and small.

"They will be travelling from all corners of the UK - from as far north as Aberdeen, from Northern Ireland and Cornwall to name but a few.  Everyone is looking forward to visiting the Island."