Planet Earth model seen by more than 13,000 people

Organisers hail the event "a great success"

An illuminated model of the Earth - 2.1 million times smaller than the real thing - has been seen by more than 13,000 people on the Isle of Man.

Gaia was on display in St Thomas’ Church in Douglas for three weeks and encouraged visitors to reflect on how humans treat the planet.

During its stay, a number of events including concerts featuring local musicians and workshops were held.

The visiting exhibit was a partnership by Net Zero Isle of Man, the Isle of Man Arts Council and headline sponsors Ørsted.

John Galloway, Development Director for Ørsted in the Isle of Man says: "We’re delighted that so many people on the Island came along and shared this special moment.

"The Gaia installation marked an important opportunity for everybody to see the delicate nature of our planet and the fact we all have a responsibility to take action to protect it.

"The continued transition from fossil fuels to clean energy has never been more crucial and we’re committed supporting this in the Island with our plans for the first offshore wind farm in Manx territorial waters."

Aly Lewin, Head of the Climate Change Transformation Team, says: "This has been a great success story and community event. It has showed although we are a small Island we all need to come together and do our part to help with climate change, nature loss and biodiversity loss. By each of us playing a small part, we can form a greater collective.

"I would like to extend my thanks to all the visitors who came along to experience Gaia, the volunteers and officers who helped arrange it, and our sponsorship partners who made it possible."