Important historic site vandalised

Graffiti sprayed across Hango Hill near Castletown

Manx National Heritage says it's "shocked and disappointed" after an important historic site on the Isle of Man was vandalised.

Hango Hill near Castletown has been daubed in extensive graffiti; pictures show the site covered in black spray paint.

The matter has been reported to the Isle of Man Constabulary.

Hango Hill is a Bronze Age burial mound and was a place of execution during the Viking Age – hence its Norse name which means ‘hanging hill’.

It is most notably known as the site of the execution of Illiam Dhone (William Christian) in 1663.

Taking to social media, MNH says a sign at the site makes it clear that it is an offence to damage an Ancient Monument.

It adds it's currently assessing the damage and will determine the most appropriate approach to restoring the monument.

Hango Hill is a Bronze Age burial mound and was a place of execution during the Viking Age – hence its Norse name which means ‘hanging hill’. 

It is most notably known as the site of the execution of Illiam Dhone (William Christian) in 1663.

The remains of a post-medieval summerhouse stand on the top of the hill and the walls have been extensively spray-painted.

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious or has information which may assist the police in identifying those responsible, you're asked to please contact the Isle of Man Constabulary.

MNH says: "This historic site is open for everyone to enjoy and is visited by both residents and visitors throughout the year.

"We ask anyone visiting our sites to help protect our shared heritage by treating sites with respect."