Douglas Borough Council is taking part in Manx National Heritage’s open day initiative and opening the Council chamber, Mayor’s parlour and the committee room in Douglas town hall to the general public between 2 and 4pm on Friday October 5th. Co-ordinated by Manx National Heritage the heritage open days taking place over two weekends in October provide access to buildings, lands and displays usually closed to the public or for which an admission charge is made.

His Worship the Mayor of Douglas Councillor David Ashford JP (pictured below in the council chamber of the town hall) is fully supportive of the scheme and has agreed to serve as one of the ‘tour guides’ for the afternoon along with senior officers and some of his fellow councillors.

He said: ‘The town hall has a fascinating story to tell and has played a central role in the development of the town since it was officially opened in May 1900. While the reception area and the Borough Treasurer’s counter are open to the general public, and visitors are welcome to attend the Council’s monthly public meetings, there are few occasions when people can take a look “behind the scenes”.

'The Council is therefore pleased to be supporting this year’s heritage open day programme as it will provide a unique opportunity for us to share with members of the public a little of the history of the building and facts about some of the interesting artwork, artefacts and memorabilia that have contributed to more than a century of civic life in the borough.'