The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has become the title sponsor of a major new exhibition organised by Manx National Heritage and the York Archaeological Trust.

Heroes, which opened at the Manx Museum on Sunday and runs until the end of Easter next year, explores the Viking idea of a hero, examining their stories and the myths that surround them by looking at the archaeology, sagas, stone carvings and burials. A Viking-age skeleton displaying the battle injuries of a warrior is part of the display, as well as replica commemoration stones.

Visitors can explore how heroes were celebrated and commemorated, and discover the most famous and influential Vikings, including Godred Crovan, one of the most powerful Viking Kings of Man and the Isles, Eric Bloodaxe, King Knut the Great, Harald Bluetooth and Leif the Lucky, and some famous Viking women including Aud the Deep-minded.

The free exhibition also delves into the world of Viking myth, uncovering the superpowers of the Viking gods such as Thor and Odin through saga telling, games and play to encourage all ages to find out more.

There will also be a series of talks to complement the exhibition, with tickets available online at www.manxnationalheritage.im and from the Manx Museum Gallery Shop.

Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: ‘The Isle of Man has a strong Viking heritage, and this exhibition will celebrate that as well as explaining more about the most influential people of the time. It will enhance understanding of the Vikings and the Island’s own history.

‘We were delighted to become title sponsor, supporting what will be a great attraction for locals, as well as visitors to the Isle of Man in the coming months.’

Photo - Manx Museum Site Manager Alan Kinvig shows Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Marketing and Online Manager Renee Caley around the Heroes exhibition (John Caley).