Our dark skies capture attention of UK media

It follows the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council announcement the island is the best place to stargaze in the British Isles with 26 Dark Sky Discovery sites.

The Times, The Independent, The Sun, The Daily Mail and The Daily Telegraph have all reported the story, including pictures by local photographer Ron Strathdee.

Roy Cottage is a Self Catering Manx holiday cottage, situated on the sea front, in Castletown, the ancient capital of the Isle of Man. Bringing news to the visitor of the Isle of Man.

Laurence Skelly MHK, political member with responsibility for tourism, said: ‘To have one site given Dark Sky Discovery status is an honour, but to have 26 in total is quite unbelievable.

‘We really hope that this accolade inspires people to visit us and experience our incredible surroundings, which of course include the night sky and we are working with partners around the island to offer a selection of dark sky events throughout 2014.’

Howard Parkin, chairman of the Isle of Man Astronomical Society, started the bid for Dark Sky Discovery status in the island in 2011.

He said: ‘With light levels so low, the night sky on the Isle of Man really will amaze anyone who takes the time to look up.’

Dark Sky sites include The Sound, Mooragh Promenade, Peel Castle and Ballanette Country Park.

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