An Taigh Cèilidh in Stornoway – aka “the Gaelic café” - is opening a second space in the shop across the road in response to demand.

The cafe offers live music, cultural workshops, conversation circles, and storytelling. It is also the group behind Gaelic Scrabble – which has sold over 1,100 boxes to date – and published three books in Gaelic.

The small space works well as a ceilidh house because people interact and chat to each other.

“It’s been brilliant seeing the friendships that are started, rekindled or strengthened in An Taigh Cèilidh”, said founding director, Teàrlach Wilson.

“However, the space was too small to meet the demands on the project.”

Co-chair, Magaidh Smith of Achmore, led the charge to expand. The shop opposite was purchased and renovated.

An opening ceilidh will be held on Thursday when the name of the new space to be officially.

A programme of events throughout the week is planned.

Mean while the organisation is applying to become a fully-fledged charity. Charitable status will give members of the public an opportunity to subscribe to a membership, with a range of benefits including discounts on tickets to events.