Seven sites around the Isle of Man have been designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites under the Dark Skies Discovery Initiative, an international scheme operated by the UK Science and Technology Facilities Council.

It's hoped that the Island's dark skies will encourage more visitors to the Isle of Man, particularly during the dark winter months which are perfect for stargazing.

Manx National Heritage (MNH) will now be working with stakeholders across Isle of Man Government, the voluntary sector and the private sector including with the Isle of Man Astronomical Society to maximise opportunities from the Island's new status as a Dark Skies Discovery location.

Edmund Southworth, director of MNH, said: "Earlier this year, Manx National Heritage invited a representative from the Dark Skies Discovery Initiative to the Island to identify possible sites for accreditation. During this visit, we facilitated a presentation to members of the Island's tourism community who expressed overwhelming support for the initiative.

"While MNH owns and manages four of the sites we see this as an initiative for the whole island and I am grateful to the other landowners, Department of Environment Food and Agriculture and the Isle of Man Water and Sewage Authority for their support."