The open days will be held over two consecutive weekends

The �41.7m jail, at Jurby, will be throwing open its doors over two consecutive weekends at the end of April and beginning of May.

Visitor numbers will be restricted to a total of 600 people per day because of operational and security concerns.

Tours will be carried out twice a day on a first come, first served basis.

Visitors will be directed around the prison in groups of 25, leaving every 15 minutes, and will be required to follow a designated route expected to take 30-40 minutes to complete.

Restricted numbers

Children under the age of 13 years will not be admitted, and young people aged 13 to 16 years must be accompanied by an adult.

The open days will take place on 26-27 April and 3-4 May.

Home Affairs Minister Martyn Quayle MHK said: "I'm pleased that it has been possible to facilitate the public to see inside the new prison before prisoners are transferred to it from Victoria Road.

"Prison management are balancing operational and security needs against a high level of public interest in the island's new jail.

"Numbers have to be restricted for security reasons and it is possible some people may be disappointed so I urge anyone interested to book their place as soon as possible."

Anyone interested in visiting the jail should contact the tour organisers on 01624 686157.