Jumping over the side of the viewing platform at the top of the Laxey Wheel is not on many people’s ‘bucket’ list.
However a broken bucket is exactly why a member of the Laxey Mines Research Group had to go over the top.
A front bucket board on the famous wheel was found to have been rotten and was coming loose. The damage was such the board was likely to detach and fall to the ground, potentially causing injury to people and damage to the wheel. Manx National Heritage who own the wheel, engaged the expertise of the Laxey Mines Research Group to make repairs and prevent further damage.
The engineer was secured and lowered into position, where the decayed timber was removed and a new board installed.
The Laxey Wheel, named Lady Isabella, was built in 1854 to pump water from the Great Laxey Mine. It remains the largest working waterwheel of its kind in the world. The Lady operated the mine’s pumping machinery via a system of rods extending underground and continued in service until the mine closed in 1929. The Manx Government acquired the site in the 1960’s. Now maintained as a key part of the Island’s industrial heritage, the wheel relies on ongoing conservation work to preserve its timber and ironwork.
The Laxey Mines Research Group regularly assists with inspections and maintenance tasks, supporting the long‑term preservation of one of the island’s most recognisable landmarks.
You can learn more about the work of the group by visiting their facebook page:
Photos: Sue Jones & Laxey Mines Research Group
