Thanks for your input...I THINK I've 'sort of' found it!
IOM Times 17 Jan 1880
quote Laxey. Title : Display of Fireworks.
Laxey Park was well patronised on Friday evening to witness a display of fireworks in aid of a young man who had lost his sight in the Laxey Mines....and so article continues about the event.

BUT THE 'YOUNG MAN' IS NEVER NAMED!!!!! ARGHH!!!!
Any other ideas anyone?
I could look at other papers, but will need the imuseum for that.
At least I have narrowed the date down now to 1879.