Young explorers will have a chance to hunt for the Rumplethump as part of a fun family open day on Sunday August 2 to celebrate the start of a new era for Laxey Pavilion. The Children’s Centre recently took over the lease of the historic venue, and the open day will allow the public to find out more about the charity’s latest project. One of many fun events will be a chance for children to follow a trail and find the mysterious Rumplethump which, legend has it, stalks Laxey Glen!

Laxey Pavilion, which is owned by DEFA, is being rejuvenated as a social enterprise run by The Children’s Centre. It has been transformed into a welcoming location for children and families, with adaptable facilities to be enjoyed by the whole community. Work has been going on for the last few months and a new cafe opened just a few weeks ago.

Susie Cox, Laxey Pavilion’s Venue and Events Manager, said: “After months of effort from our works team, the site has been transformed into a fantastic cafe and function space. There’s still so much to do, and lots planned, but it’s a very exciting project to be working on. Come and see us on our open day and see what we’ve been up to!”

The Room at Laxey Pavilion is the venue’s event space which can accommodate 200 guests (standing) or over 100 seated. It’s one of the largest venues available on the Island and extremely versatile with a stage, conference facilities and sound system – making it ideal for weddings, corporate workshops or charity events. For smaller gatherings, partitions can be used to create a more intimate setting. Space can be hired for as little as one hour and discounts are available for charitable organisations. The Room is available to hire seven days a week.

Noa Bakehouse, the popular bakery and cafe in Fort Street, Douglas, opened the doors to their artisan coffee shop based at Laxey Pavilion on the June 27, and have seen a fantastic show of support in their first few weeks of trading. The cafe is open 10.30am to 3pm, Thursday to Sunday.

As a social enterprise, Laxey Pavilion aims to support The Children’s Centre through its profits. Susie Cox added: “There are so many possibilities for things to hold here at Laxey Pavilion. It’s got huge potential, and we can’t wait to work with Noa and other local businesses. We see Laxey Pavilion becoming a location for all kinds of events, from corporate gatherings to weddings. By supporting this facility, you’ll be contributing to your community, and helping children and families here on the island.”

The official opening is on August 2 from noon to 3pm. It’s ideal for a family day out in the gardens and glen with games and other activities going .For more information about Laxey Pavilion go to www.laxeypavilion.im or contact Venue and Events Manager Susie Cox by emailing susiecox@thechildrenscentre.org.im or phoning 862121.

Photo - The new cafe at Laxey Pavilion.