Guides appeal from Isle of Man Walking Festival
Ramblers with an in-depth knowledge of the Isle of Man are being urged to become guides for the forthcoming walking festival.
About 170 people are visiting the island for the annual five-day event, which begins on Sunday.
And although 25 people have already signed up to lead them, organisers have said they need about six more.
The 2010 Isle of Man Walking Festival will be the busiest since 2006, they added.
Visitors are coming from as far afield as the United States, Norway, France and Sweden.
Organiser Mick Salmon said: "Around 25 walk leaders will be bringing their local knowledge to the festival and while that number is adequate I could ideally do with half a dozen more.
"One of the recurring themes we are hearing from visitors is how impressed they are by the Manx guides.
"There is no doubt this is a major factor in encouraging them to travel to the island.
"I would say to anyone thinking about joining us as a leader or assistant leader is that you are helping Manx tourism as well as ensuring our visitors go away with a detailed knowledge of the island's heritage and culture."