Viking statue planned near Tynwald hill

The designs see King Orry holding a sword and gesturing towards Tynwald Hill

Plans have been submitted to install a bronze statue near Tynwald Hill to recognise a Viking ruler credited with playing a key role in establishing the Isle of Man's legal system.

The proposals would see the illuminated sculpture depicting King Orry, set to stand at 7.7 ft (2.3m) tall, installed in St John's overlooking the landmark.

If approved, the Department of Infrastructure, who have put forward the plans, aim to have the tribute in place for Tynwald Day in July.

Backing the privately-funded scheme, President of Tynwald Laurence Skelly said it would act as a "focal point of interest" to educate visitors and locals about the historical figure.

Godred Crovan, also known as King Orry, was "widely recognised as one of our Norse forefathers and part of the Viking dynasty which established Tynwald" so commemorating him at St John's would be "very fitting", he said.

The Viking warrior made three attempts to capture the Isle of Man and bring it under his rule. When he finally did he went on to reign for 16 years.

Viking legacy

The statue would also feature a plaque detailing King Orry's historical significance taken from the earliest written history of the island, the Chronicles of the Kings of Man and the Isles.

It would sit on a plinth by the junction of Peel Road and Glen Mooar Road, facing east and gesturing towards Tynwald Hill.

The application stated there had been no objections to the proposals by nearby businesses or German Commissioners.

It has been designed by artists Darren Jackson and Stephanie Quayle-Jackson, who also created a heron sculpture in Castletown.

They say the artwork would "gaze across 1,000 years of history" encouraging people to explore the foundations the Vikings laid and their legacy.