Members of the public are invited to mark the start of the new year by attending a service of commemoration for one of Manx history's most divisive figures.

Malew Parish Church will host Friday's service (2 Jan) celebrating the life of Illiam Dhone who was shot for his part in handing the Island over to parliamentary forces during the English Civil War.

Opinion is divided as to whether he should be regarded as a traitor or a patriot.

Canon Philip Gillespie from St Mary’s Church is guest speaker at the service which starts at a quarter to three.

It follows the annual outdoor ceremony held by Manx nationalists to salute Illiam Dhone at Hango Hill in Castletown, the place of his execution.
The event which starts at 2 pm, will see orations in English and Manx.
This year the speech in English will be given by Alistair Kneale, President of the London Manx Society, while 18 year old Island student Cesar Joughin will orate in Manx.