A large number of children are expected to visit the House of Manannan in Peel over the festive period to solve the 'Riddle of the Runes'.

The Christmas holiday challenge involves solving a series of clues, placed throughout the three storey building, and based on the symbols used by the Vikings in the medieval Scandinavian alphabet.

Information packs have been handed out to pupils at many of the Island's schools, and Manx National Heritage spokesman Howard Parkin is hoping for a good response (audio file attached):

The 'Riddle of the Runes' will continue until the end of January, as will a colouring competition which children can also enter.

(Picture: A family prepares to solve the 'Riddle of the Runes').