Gallery | December 2014 | the OPULENCE issue by Gallery Magazine

Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no 38 | December 2014 | the [OPULENCE] issue

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Samsung Ace 4

Sony Xperia M2

Huawei Y550

£49 on £16/m

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While stocks last. Offer available on 24 month contracts. For full terms and conditions go to www.sure.com

Accessorise this Christmas! Smart wearables available FREE with any of these great 4G Smartphones. Ask in store for details or online at www.sure.com

Gallery is published eleven times a year as a fresh yet discerning guide to all that happens on the Island and beyond. Not too arty farty superior or too serious, written by you and enjoyed by people everywhere.

CONTRIBUTORS

WHO WE ARE PUBLISHER

EDITORIAL

design@gallery.co.im

Lisa Jones Anthony Brand Clare Bowie Hannah Goodby Michelle Tonnesen Linda Huxley Anne Berry Jennifer Parkes Jessica Ledger Grant Runyon Les Able Suzy Holland Rebecca Lawrence Rachel Green Theo Leworthy Anne Moorhouse Leon Flemming Grace Ryan

PAPARAZZI

ILLUSTRATIONS

Steve Redford T: 07624 249249 steve@gallery.co.im ADVERTISING SALES

Bev Lawley T: 07624 415096 bev@gallery.co.im ACCOUNTS

accs@gallery.co.im T: 01624 619540 laura@gallery.co.im DESIGN STUDIO

Russ Atkinson

T: 01624 619540 paparazzi@gallery.co.im

Hermione Benest Adam Berry

DISTRIBUTION

REL AX | RENEW | REVIVE

T: 01624 619540 www.gallery.co.im/distribution distro@gallery.co.im GALLERY MAGAZINE

Quay House, South Quay, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 5AR Tel: 01624 619540 www.gallery.co.im

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Tel: 616262/498163 Email: beautyspot@manx.net www.beautyspotiom.com /the beauty spot 17-18 Port Jack | Onchan | Isle of Man

DESIGN STUDIO

Emma Cooke Steve Redford Russ Atikinson Katherine Mather

PHOTOGRAPHY

Julian Simmonds Peter Kwiecinski Leo Fosdal Matt Mosur

Recycle.

Gallery recycles all its storage and packing materials, boxes and any old magazines that are returned. We don’t get that many fortunately. We love to know our readers hang on to previous copies but when they take up too much space, drop them down to the recycling bins. If you want to find out more about recycling - call: 01624 686540. Don’t forget you cn view all previous issues on our website.

Disclaimer. All rights reserved. Any form of reproduction of Gallery Magazine, in part or whole is strictly prohibited without the written consent of the publisher. Any views expressed by advertisers or contributors may not be those of the publisher. Unsolicited artwork, manuscripts and copy are accepted by Gallery Magazine, but the publisher cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage. All material, copy and artwork supplied is assumed to be copyright free unless otherwise advised. Contributions for Gallery should be emailed to editorial@gallery.co.im. Names have been changed to protect the innocent and no penguins were harmed in the manufacture of this magazine, you can’t prove nuffing. Why are you still reading the small print? How about researching what really makes the best paper aeroplane? Test them with your friends or colleagues, add a picture to our Facebook and we’ll send you some doughnuts.

EDITO

UPFRONT

#38 [OPULENCE] Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no 38 | December 2014 | the [OPULENCE] issue

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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COVER CREDIT PHOTOGRAPHY: Julian Simmonds STYLING: Claire Christian, asst by William Holden & Alanna McLean MAKE UP: Kimberley Berridge NAIL ARTIST: The Nail & Beauty Retreat, Barbara Booth HAIR STYLIST: Marco Leonetti & Danielle Ward (Utopia) MODELS: Chloe Magee, Rachel Crook, Will Holden LOCATION: Gaiety Theatre, Douglas

edito

hristmas, whether you’re religious or not, is a great time for taking stock and giving thanks. Thanks for great TV, thanks for the quirky gifts, thanks for the advent calendar, thanks for Christmas parties, thanks that when you tell people what you really think of them you can blame it on the drink (or festive cheer). I know that sounds cynical but go on, say you’re not happy about any of the things I’ve mentioned. It’s going to be a non stop rollercoaster of action movies, action toys, dubious cracker jokes and tales of inappropriate shenanigans fuelled by Sherry. We’re looking forward to Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and that week between Christmas Day and New Year that, let’s face it, everyone should take off. With turkey to be eaten up and Christmas money to spend there’s no place for working in what we’ve decided to refer to as ‘boxing week’. As this is our bumper two month Winter Edition we have a packed issue for you. This time of year often provokes people to make life changing decisions, often during hugs and ‘deep’ conversations with friends, usually on Christmas/New Year’s Eve. Amongst the ‘I love you man...s' and ‘let’s get shots!’, bold resolutions are slurred and lifestyle changes planned. With that in mind, Gallery helps you through some of the possible options in the coming pages. So, Merry Christmas one and all. Enjoy our Winter Edition and we’ll see you in February 2015. SR

ARE YOU IN? You can also view paparazzi photos on our facebook page.

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BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

WILKINS WATCH of the MONTH The new Carrera Lady Collection is every bit as beautiful and strong as the glamorous woman who helped design it: fivetime Grand Slam tennis champion Maria Sharapova.

A halfcentury after its dramatic arrival on the motorracing scene, the Carrera returns in an enriched Lady Collection more feminine than ever before.

Just launched in TAG Heuer flagship stores, the new 12-piece Carrera Lady collection is chic and sporty, reflecting the heritage of the Carrera series. The classic Carrera features, including faceted horns, a wide-open dial and thin bezel for optimum readability. The larger of the two dial sizes, the Carrera Lady 32mm features a quartz movement and is available in six different dial and bracelet options; from the classic stainless steel model with mother of pearl dial and faceted and polished indexes, to the ultra luxe steel and rose gold model with mother of pearl dial and 64-diamond set bezel seen here.

Tag Heuer Carrera Steel & Rose Gold With Full Diamond Bezel ÂŁ5,675.

A bedazzling, diamond-rich jewellery timepiece bringing extra luxury luster to the TAG Heuer Carrera Lady collection. Adorned with 64 Top Wesselton diamonds on the bezel (0.62 carat). Everything extraneous has been removed. Two hands only indicate the passing of the hours and the minutes. An eye-catching timepiece where every detail complements the feminine you.

76 Strand Street, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 2EW Tel: 01624 690450 Email: enquiries@wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk www.facebook.com/Wilkinsjewellers www.wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk

TAG HEUER CARRERA LADY STEEL AND ROSE GOLD WITH FULL DIAMOND BEZEL

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UPFRONT

CONTENTS FEATURE

FEATURE

UPFRONT

WORDS | Donna White ILLUSTRATION | Adam Berry

KOOKY CHRISTMAS? For most of us, Christmas is the season to be with family.

FESTIVE BONDING

In Portugal they enjoy a feast called ‘consoada’ at Christmas where they set extra places at the table for ‘alminhas a penar’ – the souls of the dead – who are offered food to bring luck to the family for the forthcoming year. In some areas crumbs are left on the hearth for these souls, a custom that derives from the ancient practice of entrusting seeds to the dead in hope that they will provide a bountiful harvest. On Christmas Day, ‘cepo de natal’ – the Christmas log – is a piece of oak that burns on the hearth all through the day. On January 5 or Epiphany Eve, children place their shoes along windowsills and doorways and fill them with carrots and straw to lure the horses of the Three Wise Men to their household during the night. The Three Kings then leave gifts and treats for the children in their shoes, which they usually find in the morning and consist of candied fruits and sweet breads.

In the former Yugoslavia they tie their mothers feet to a chair and she must give present in return for her freedom. On the second Sunday before Christmas, children creep in and tie their mothers feet to a chair, shouting ‘Mother’s Day, Mother’s Day, what will you pay to get away?’ Surprisingly, she then gives them presents. Children play the same trick on their father the following week and get even more presents. Unfortunately, adults don’t get to do the same to their children the week after.

TOASTING YOUR ELF Christmas in Denmark is supposed to be when a mischievous elf called Nisse can have his fun. He is said to live in the lofts of old farmhouses and enjoys playing jokes. He wears grey woollen clothes, a red bonnet, red stockings and white clogs. Families leave him a bowl of rice pudding or porridge on Christmas Eve to keep his jokes within limits. Usually he is kind and helpful, assisting on the farms and being especially good to the children. Christmas Eve dinner begins with rice pudding that holds a magic almond inside. Whoever finds the almond receives a prize. They then have goose, red cabbage and browned potatoes, followed by lots of pastries and cakes.

HORSING AROUND In some rural parts of Wales they still carry out an ancient Celtic tradition called the Mari Lwyd – of the Grey Mare – during the festive season. A horse’s skull on a stick is covered with a white sheet and decorated with ribbons. A man under the sheet clicks jaws together using a wooden pulley.

Anyone can enter, and you don’t have to race – leave that to the amazing athletes that complete the course in under 5 minutes! All you have to do is dress up in a Santa outfit, raise a little money for your chosen charity and have a load of fun with all the other fun runners.

A group of people carries this horse from house to house, giving a challenge in verse, to enter the house and bring luck. It is extremely unlucky to refuse the Mari Lwyd, but the clever householder can occasionally outwit and outverse the entourage in this challenge and answer game. It is carried on until one side can no longer think of a good answer then the Mari Lwyd either gives it’s blessing and leaves, or is granted entrance. Once inside the group entertains the household, in return for food and drink. The Grey Mare visited houses throughout Wales well into the 1960’s. Then it began to die out as another rough custom’ but some rural communities are fighting to keep this ritual alive.

We’ll have TV and radio there, the roads will be closed and we always get a great crowd to roar the runners on – it’ll be the best 5 minutes of your year!

Isle of Man Bank also put up nearly £3,000 for cash prizes which you can donate to your charity – from the winners in different classes to spot prizes for best Santa outfits. In 2013, 222 Santa’s started the Charity Dash and helped raise an estimated £25,000 for charities of their choice. This year, we expect again to have over 200! So, whether an individual or entering a corporate

WEDNESDAY 17th DECEMBER 2014

For many of us it may be the custom to pickle our livers over the festive season. But in certain regions of Germany an unusual tradition is observed called the Christmas pickle. The last ornament that is put on the tree is a glass pickle. This ornament is hidden in the tree. On Christmas morning, the first child who finds the pickle ornament receives an extra present. Another unusual tradition is the carrot ornament; a glass ornament is given to a new bride for her tree. It is assumed to be a symbol of fertility.

2013 RESULTS 20 people awarded spot prizes of £100 for their chosen charity 222 Santa Dashers started - £25,000 raised Winner: Stephen Garrett 2nd Jamie Newton

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

CULTURE

3rd Ed Gumbley

ravanti Mazumdar was born in the Himalayan town of Darjeeling before moving to Calcutta, West Bengal for her education. From the age of four she was trained in Indian classical music but was always fascinated by Western music since her early childhood and used to spend hours listening to overseas radio stations playing pop, jazz, country and blues. She grew up to the sounds of Elvis Presley, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and all the many other popular rock bands and artists of the time.

After passing her MA in psychology at Calcutta University she entered the world of music purely by accident; she was attending the races at the Royal Calcutta Turf Club with her parents when she had a chance meeting with Colonel R Bose, Clerk of the Course, who also owned a recording studio.

Colonel Bose asked Sravanti to attend his studio and sing a couple of songs and jingles. He was so impressed with her voice he immediately took her under his wing and set her up in a fully fledged recording studio. Her first records were an instant hit, especially with the younger generation, and she went on to become a leading star in West Bengal with many number one hits, silver, gold and platinum awards and recognition from leading musical institutions.

Pick up an entry form from any Isle of Man Bank branch Call Jane Howland on 646622 and we can email you a form Visit our website and download the form www.iombank.com/santadash

GIFTS

GORGEOUS

GIFTS

GORGEOUS

We often take the stunning beauty of the Island for granted, but we have a duty to preserve it for future generations. By involving young people in this competition, and by producing this calendar, we are passing the legacy on.

FOPE

photographers

18ct White Gold Lolite & Diamond Flex-it Solo Braclet

18ct Rose Gold & Diamond EKA Bracelet

18CT WHITE GOLD FLOWER DESIGN PENDANT

TANZANITE & DIAMOND EARRINGS 18ct White Gold Cluster £2,150

£5,425

£3,765

PANDORA

Sparkling Classic Lace Ring £70

Sparkling Pearl Earrings £95

wanted

Coming to the Isle of Man was pure chance – she and her husband-to-be Colin were living in Tunbridge Wells from where she commuted to London while working for the BBC World Service. They came to the Isle of Man for a short break one summer and she instantly fell in love with the Island, resolving to leave the BBC and move here permanently, which she did, and was married in Castle Rushen.

for charity calendar

Since moving to the Isle of Man she still frequently travels to India to perform at charity events, be a guest judge for Indian talent competitions and appear on television and radio as an occasional chat show hostess and presenter.

Each month in 2015 the winning photograph will be chosen from entries sent in to Gallery to eventually appear in a school-year calendar which will run from September 2016 to August 2017. John Faragher, chairman of the Society for the Preservation of the Manx Countryside, would like the finished calendar to celebrate all that is best about our environment:

To hear the track on YouTube visit www.youtube.com/ watch?v=COyf3rZoAx0

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

“The Society was formed in 1938 to preserve our surroundings. In the 21st century, many people have no idea about the environmental history of this wonderful Island and so by producing this calendar, we are asking young people to go out and look around them, see the Island’s beauty and take photographs which immortalise it.” Without pre-judging how each page will look, John expects the winning

photographs will reflect the seasons, but he doesn’t want entrants to restrict themselves to traditional landscapes.

Brilliant Diamond Cut, 1.12ct Diamonds (Matching Earrings & Ring In store)

Each month there will be a prize of up to £200 of photographic equipment, with the winning image being reproduced on canvas as well as appearing in the finished calendar. Projects planned by the Society for 2015 include talks, visits and walks – and they’d like more young people to get involved. Annual membership costs just £5, and whilst recently they have joined with other charities like Beach Buddies, Sea Search and the Manx Wildlife Trust, John would like anyone interested in our countryside and environment to suggest more topics which will increase awareness of the hidden beauty of the Isle of Man.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

PANDORA Pave Wishing Star Charm £60

PANDORA

Sparkling Classic Lace Pendant £125

£2,250

“Our full name is the Society for the Preservation of the Manx Countryside and Environment, says John. “The buildings, ruined tholtans and railways are just as important to us as beaches, fields and glens – so we’d like young photographers to take their cameras and see where their imaginations take them.”

How to enter

Email your photographs by the 15th of each month to calendarcomp@gallery.co.im Photographs will be displayed monthly in Gallery Magazine starting in February 2015. Photographs must be 300dpi and at least 4MB in size. For more information about the Society for the Preservation of the Manx Countryside & Environment (Charity No. 391) and to join, email: manxfaragher@yahoo.com or phone: John on 07624 417119. There is also a facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/iomspmce

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

APPETITE

TANZANITE & DIAMONDS PENDANT/CHAIN

ROSE GOLD & DIAMOND EARRINGS

£1,450

£1,595

18ct Rose Gold, 0.74ct Diamonds

18ct White Gold Cluster

PANDORA

Happy Snowman Charm

Sparkling Present Charm

£45

£60

ALL GIFTS AVAILABLE FROM

WILKINS JEWELLERS

76 Strand Street, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 2EW | Tel: 01624 690450 | www.wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk

WILKINS JEWELLERS

76 Strand Street, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 2EW | Tel: 01624 690450 | www.wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk

TRAVEL

LES GETS: A TOUCH OF GLASS

MAKE

COUTURE

Delia Smith, Jamie Oliver, Heston Blumenthal, Gordon Ramsay and just about every other TV chef you can think of, have all had a go at coming up with their own twist on the traditional dish.

A CRACKER Tired of gobbling up turkey at Christmas? Or maybe you favour festive tradition over taste? Whatever you decide to cook, make sure it’s a delicious, hearty feast.

Methods vary from brining it for 24 hours beforehand - that’s submerging it in a bucket of salty water flavoured with things like rosemary, garlic and clementine peel - to rubbing garlic and herb butter under the bird’s skin to make it crisp and golden, while the meat underneath - in theory comes out nice and moist. For all these techniques, though, turkey meat is always much of a muchness. Even a modest-sized bird comes in at about 10lb/4.5kg, with whoppers nearing 17lb on sale for larger families, meaning they need so long in the oven that, unless you concentrate on anything but that, it’ll end up dry as a bone.

Gordon Ramsay’s take is to joint the bird first, roasting the breasts and legs separately, which dramatically reduces cooking time. That can only be a good thing, but it’s also worth remembering the instructions of Georges Auguste Escoffier, the godfather of French cuisine, who wrote in his 1903 book Le Guide Culinaire: “Roast in a moderate oven”. And that’s it. There are a few golden rules though, like getting the turkey up to room temperature before cooking. It takes a while, so if it’s in the fridge and you’re roasting on Christmas Day morning, take it out the night before. You should try to keep the bird moist too, with a bit of butter on the breast and perhaps some bacon. You could, however, just forgo turkey altogether and eat something else. After all, we only started eating turkey in

Grande Corniche is a newly built chalet located in the heart of the vast “Portes du Soleil” ski area, only a short drive from Geneva. This gorgeous chalet boasts a number of special features, which makes it truly unique. The grand piano sits proudly in the lounge, whilst the upstairs bar is pre-stocked with all of your favourite beverages. The slide, which takes you from the bar directly down into the wine cellar and snooker room, is probably the most popular feature with guests of all ages! The glass sauna offers fabulous views over the snow-capped trees, whilst the outdoor Jacuzzi is the perfect spot to enjoy a post ski glass of champagne.

CONSENSIO CHILDREN: A WINTER WONDERLAND

There’s an argument for eating whatever you like on Christmas Day, too. If you’d really be happier with steak and chips, why not have that? Of course, if you’re going to do that, make sure it’s the best steak you can manage, and pull out all the stops with the bearnaise sauce. Similarly, if nothing would please you more than a nice lamb chop, a pasta dish, or an array of roasted veg, go for it. Just don’t skimp on anything - make it a feast.

The mountains are a magical place for both adolescents and adults. From English speaking nannies to on-tap chefs, if your children are happy, then so are you.

Whatever you choose, remember to think about the size of your kitchen and oven space, ease of cooking and, above all, what you’ll actually enjoy. Tradition is important at Christmas, but tasty grub is essential.

MOST OPULENT A GUIDE TO THE ALPS

4-5kg oven-ready goose, trussed for roasting 2 oranges 4 bay leaves A bunch of thyme 3tbsp sunflower oil 8 medium carrots, peeled but left whole 8 medium parsnips, peeled but left whole 4 turnips, peeled and halved or quartered Salt and pepper For the bramble gravy: 1tbsp golden caster sugar 100ml good-quality red wine vinegar ½ jar bramble jelly (Tiptree does a good one; if you can’t find it, use blackberry jam) 100ml strong chicken stock For the pears:

FULL LENGTH NAVY SILK BIAS CUT EVENING GOWN

- CLARE CHRISTIAN COUTURE - £375

FURS & FABRICS - SIGNATURE INTERIOR DESIGN

UPFRONT Edito..............................................................................................................................................3 Wilkins Watch of The Month...................................................4 A Gold Digger’s Guide.........................................................10 What’s On...................................................................................................12 The Strand At Christmas..................................................14 MISC..................................................................................................................22 News in Numbers..........................................................................19 Isle of Man Bank Santa Dash....................................20 Kooky Christmas Traditions......................................22 Current Affairs....................................................................................................24 Give..........................................................................................................................................28 Me & My Pet...........................................................................................30 RANT- Christmas Wish List.......................................32 EVENTS Breast Cancer Care Mount Murray....................34 Heroes in the Community....................................................................36 Douglas Rugby Club Ladies Day.................................40 CULTURE Culture News......................................................................................................42 Ellan Vannin In Bengali.............................................................44 My Name Is - Svetlana Cameron...................................46 Where There’s Brass There’s Jason..........................48 Monthly Upload............................................................................................50 Charity Calendar Competition 2015................52 Culture Vulture...............................................................................................54

6 pears 2tbsp icing sugar Large bag watercress, to serve

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Remove all the fat from inside the bird and use a skewer to prick the goose skin all over, especially under the wings. If you have time (though not essential), sit the goose in a sink, then slowly and carefully pour over three kettles of boiling water. Dry with kitchen paper, then leave for one hour or so to dry completely. This will help the skin crisp. Heat oven to 200C. Season the goose cavity with salt and pepper and stuff with the oranges, two bay leaves and the thyme. Rub the breast and legs with two tablespoons of oil and season generously with salt. Lay the carrots in the middle of a very large roasting tin. Sit the bird the right way up on top of the carrots. In a bowl, toss the parsnips and turnips with the rest of the oil and bay leaves, then scatter around the goose. Cover the tin with a large piece of foil, scrunching it up at the sides so it’s a tight fit. Place the goose in the oven for one and a half hours. Take the goose out of the oven. Remove the foil and carefully use a baster to suck out most of the fat from the tin into a bowl. Lightly baste the goose and turn the parsnips. Re-cover with foil and roast for another one and a half hours. Suck the fat from the pan again and baste, then increase the heat to 220C. Return to the oven without any foil to brown for a final 30-40 minutes until golden brown.

Spellbinding experiences include an expedition to your own private igloo as well as husky sledding, whilst family birthdays are welcomed in true style with the addition of a magician and fireworks. For more information, contact enquiries@consensioholidays.co.uk or call +44 (0) 203 393 0833 to book your next ski holiday.

What is it that makes the French Alps the benchmark of luxury skiing? The high altitude? The exquisite cuisine? The in-house spa manager who anticipates your every need? Or perhaps it’s the pool designed with gold leaf tiles and a drop down movie screen? With sumptuous chalets boasting a platform to some of the best views across the valley, now is the time to check into a little piste-side luxury! Did someone mention fondue?

THE MOST LUXURIOUS CATERED SKI CHALETS IN THE FRENCH ALPS

Consensio operates some of the finest chalets in the world; each comes complete with a team of four hospitality professionals including your own personal chef and chauffeur. They are all within easy reach of Geneva and Chambery, the two alpine hubs serviced by flights with Flybe. We asked Ceri Tinley, their Managing Director, which is the most decadent in these ski resorts.

VAL D’ISERE: SUITE DREAMS

Peel and halve the pears. Use a teaspoon to scoop out the cores, then cut the pears into quarters. In a bowl, toss the pears in the icing sugar until completely coated. Heat a large frying pan over a high flame and add the pears to the pan. Cook for one minute or so, tossing constantly, until the pears are really well caramelised and slightly burnt around the edges.

Marco Polo sets the standard in this high-altitude resort. This chalet is packed full of facilities and technology. The two first entire floors of the chalet are dedicated to your wellness; the pool is designed with gold leaf tiles and has a drop down movie screen which sits alongside your Jacuzzi and sauna. Downstairs, your in-house spa manager provides complimentary treatments in both the massage and beauty rooms, which are located next to the large gym that features two of each machine – allowing you to work out together. This chalet has its own wine cellar where you can enjoy bespoke wine tasting, accompanied by a local variety of cheese and ham, whilst the chalet bar area is perfect for relaxing with a pre-dinner drink and canapés.

Serve the goose on a platter surrounded by watercress and pear wedges. Serve the slow-roasted vegetables in a separate bowl and the gravy in a gravy boat.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

RECIPE - BBC GOOD FOOD MAGAZINE.

On arrival, younger guests will be met by Charlie Bear (a unique cuddly toy, theirs to keep), as well as their very own personalised kid’s challenge card. From designing their own pizza with the in-chalet chef, to creating the craziest snow dance, and building the best snowman, they’ll be faced with a series of challenges throughout the week.

SKI ESCAPES

CONSENSIO: THE FRENCH ALPS

Here’s a recipe for inspiration this year.

CHRISTMAS GOOSE WITH ROOT VEG, STICKY PEARS & BRAMBLE GRAVY (Serves 6-8)

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

John Faragher, chairman of the Society for the Preservation of the Manx Countryside

OPULENT

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

CULTURE

of photographic equipment

Sravanti also collaborated with the legendary pianist, composer and song writer Vistas Balsara (always known as ‘V.B’ or ‘V Balsara’) based in Calcutta who arranged and composed some of her modern Bengali songs. The most popular song she recorded was in association with V.B. and called ‘Ay Khuku Ay’ (Father and Daughter). The song is known to Bengalis worldwide and evokes nostalgia among those living away from their native Bengal.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Julian Simmonds STYLING: Clare Christian. asst William Holden & Alanna Mclean MAKE UP: Kimberley Berridge NAIL ARTIST: The Nail & Beauty Retreat, Barbara Booth HAIR STYLIST: Marco Leonetti & Danielle Ward (Utopia) MODELS: Chloe Magee, Rachel Crook, Will Holden LOCATION: Gaiety Theatre, Douglas

nt Provide ted from Friends Cornish they were deligh Caroline second said r for the International main sponso “It’s so to be the g. She addedthe everyday ise year runnin to recogn great things ate the important and celebr d.” heroes achieve they have

How to enter:

PHOTO COMP

You could win up to £200

She also starred in a travelogue about Europe produced in 26 episodes for an Indian television network and was able to incorporate seven episodes dedicated to showcasing the Isle of Man, which was seen by millions of viewers in India.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

LOADS OF PRIZES & LOADS OF FUN

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

SHE STILL MAINTAINS HER INTEREST AS A SINGER AND PUBLISHES A NEW ALBUM OF SONGS EVERY SEPTEMBER OR OCTOBER FOR THE ‘PUJA’ (FESTIVAL) SEASON IN WEST BENGAL. HER LAST ALBUM, ‘NOSTALGIA’ FEATURES HER VERSION OF ELLAN VANNIN (AMAR DESH).

Winners included seven-year-old Cici Reed for having a ‘Heart of Gold’, ‘Child of Courage’ Archie Veale and ‘Grandparent of the Year’ Jackie McCubbin, with Willaston School head teacher Rose Burton being named ‘Teacher of the Year’. There was also an extra surprise honour for tenyear-old James Barr who collected the ‘Dream Catcher Super Star’ award.

Fastest Lady Santa: Gail Griffiths

Ellan Vannin in Bengali

When she was at high school then university in Calcutta she would entertain her classmates for hours by singing cover versions of Western pop songs – unheard of in Calcutta during those days.

It was an emotional evening for all, with winners and their families joining members of the local business community at the dinner and ceremony at Mount Murray.

Best Dressed Santas: Mark Emery and Laura Gill

‘Telling Island of Culture’s story to the world’ Her unusual bass voice led to her being teased at school; fellow pupils would ask her what her name was just to hear her bass voice. The husky voice, though, grew deep and sensuous as she developed her musical career and became her trademark, an unmistakable and instantly recognisable voice.

The superhero-themed event acknowledged individuals who do extraordinary things for the local community and go above and beyond their duty.

DRESS UP & DASH... FOR C HARITY C ASH! Every year, over 100 people take part in our annual Santa Dash through the streets of Douglas Town Centre, raising valuable money for their chosen charities. This year, we’re hoping to do even better! So, if you can sprint, jog or even just walk the course, we would love to see you there.

Czech Republic Christmas traditions involve predictions for the future. Apples are always cut crosswise. If a star appears in the core, the next year will be successful, while a cross suggest a bad year. Girls throw shoes over their shoulder. If the toe points to the door, the girl will get married soon. Another tradition requires pouring a little molten lead into water and guessing a message from the shapes that appear when it hardens.

CULTURE

Entering is easier than ever. Pop in to any branch of Isle of Man Bank to pick up a form, call Jane Howland on 646622 or go to the Santa Dash website at www.iombank.com/santadash.

TREE TREASURES

the

The Island’s everyday ‘superheroes’ were honoured for their selfless achievements at the sixth Heroes in the Community Awards in November.

team, come along and make it a year to remember, you’ll even get a goody bag and a festive warm down reception after the race.

CRYSTAL BAUBLES

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

SINGER AND BROADCASTER SRAVANTI MAZUMDAR MAY HAVE BEEN BORN IN INDIA BUT THE ISLE OF MAN HAS LONG BEEN HOME AND INSPIRATION FOR HER; SUFFICIENTLY INSPIRING TO RECORD A COVER VERSION OF ELLAN VANNIN IN BENGALI.

EVENTS

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FREAKY FEAST

For most of us Christmas dinner wouldn’t be the same without roast turkey and all the trimmings. But if you thought you were brave for tucking into mum’s lumpy mash potato, spare a thought for the folk of Greenland, who’ll be feasting on something far more pungent. They eat the raw flesh of an auk – a bird similar in appearance to a penguin. ‘Kiviak’ is a gastronomical Christmas treat, which, for some reason, hasn’t been adopted by many other nations. It’s made from the raw flesh of auk which has been buried under a stone in sealskin for several months until it’s achieved an advanced stage of decomposition. As one might imagine, it smells like old blue cheese and has an extremely strong taste.

EVENTS

So, what are you doing Wednesday 17th December? Can you spare your lunch hour just for one day of the year? Fit enough to drag yourself around the short Douglas Town Centre course? Then why not get involved with the annual Charity Santa Dash and help make it the biggest year ever!

AND BY THE TIME WE’VE EATEN AND DRUNK TO MUCH, SWAPPED THE OBLIGATORY GIFTS OF SOCKS AND WATCHED OUR PARENTS STAND UP FOR THE QUEEN’S SPEECH, WE’RE PROBABLY CONVINCED WE’VE GOT THE WEIRDEST FAMILY GOING. BUT IF YOU THINK YOUR DOMESTIC TRADITIONS ARE STRANGE, JUST TAKE A LOOK AT SOME OF THE FOLKLORE FOLLOWED AROUND THE WORLD DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON.

ROTTEN ROAST

SANTA DASH

Dash for cash!

FASHION & BEAUTY Opulence Photoshoot....................................................................56 Christmas Gift Guide............................................................64 Fashion Trends.................................................................................68 Beauty Products..........................................................................................70 APPETITE Make Christmas Dinner A Cracker.........................72 Opulence Cocktail....................................................................................74 Give Leftovers New Life................................................................76 Old World Or New World Wines?...........................78 TRAVEL Glasgow, Culture & Style With Citywing....80 Fly Direct Holidays 2015..............................................................82 Snow Patrol - A Guide To The Alps........................84 BUSINESS Business News..............................................................................................102 Future Finance...............................................................................................106 Dual Launch From Sure.............................................................108 A New Job... And A New House...................................110 Movers & Shakers.....................................................................................114 ACTIVE Active News........................................................................................................116 StarTrec.........................................................................................................................117

It’s here you’ll stumble upon the legendary backcountry powder, as well as over 412km of expertly groomed pistes in the 4 Vallees region. If its luxury you’re searching for, you’ve certainly come to the right place, from retail therapy to fine cuisine and an abundance of champagne opportunities, Verbier’s reputation precedes itself. No wonder the resort poses as a playground to A-lister’s such as Prince Harry and Richard Branson!

ISLE OF JERSEY’S MAN PREMIER STYLE MAGAZINE

COURCHEVEL 1850: VANTAGE POINT

Shemshak Lodge, named after the Iranian ski resort, is a perfect example of ski-in, ski-out luxury. Located on the blue Plantrey piste, in the heart of this famous ski resort, the location makes this a perfect chalet for experienced or beginner skiers alike. Shemshak offers an alternative to the typical alpine chocolate wooden chalet design, created with top London designers; it is bright and airy full of interesting art and pictures. There are panoramic views across the valley from every floor of this large chalet. The spa area has floor to ceiling windows and the large pool is located beside the hammam, sauna, gym and massage room. This chalet comes complete with state of the art technology which is linked via a central system, allowing all the latest movies and tracks to be streamed into every room.

The icing on the cake – Marais Rouge is one of Ski Armadillo’s Champagne Chalets. Guests will be treated to champagne and canapés six nights of the week, alongside homemade petit fours and a dedicated driver service. Extras such as childcare, massages or restaurant reservation can all be arranged with the on-tap concierge service. Sleeps 12

With its opulent appeal, it comes as no surprise that Marco Polo was awarded with the title of Best Chalet in France in 2013.

84 40

MARAIS ROUGE: A ROOM WITH A VIEW

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

HARDWARE Motoring News..............................................................................................120 Gadgets Gift Guide................................................................................122 Phone Home.....................................................................................................126 PAPARAZZI Manx Stars In Their Eyes..........................................................128 Sugar Sugar........................................................................................................130 Tahiko..............................................................................................................................132 The Courthouse............................................................................................133 The Outback........................................................................................................134 At Your Service...........................................................................................136 Isle of Man | Home & Interiors | December 2014

The best place to find a new place in the Isle of Man

THE BEST PLACE TO FIND A NEW PLACE IN THE ISLE OF MAN 87

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Get app-y for a chance to WIN! How would you like to get your hands on the latest Samsung Galaxy S5? Use Get Cash or Pay Your Contacts on our Mobile Banking app between 12 November and 12 December 2014 and you could be in with a chance of winning. Terms and Conditions apply, please visit our website for details. App-y Christmas!

Search: Isle of Man Bank

iombank.com/xmas To use Get Cash, the amount requested must be within the daily withdrawal limit for your debit card. App available on selected smartphones, to personal current account customers with a debit card, Online Banking and valid mobile number. Isle of Man Bank Limited (IOMB). Registered Company Number: 1 Isle of Man. Registered Office: 2 Athol Street, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM99 1AN. Licensed by the Financial Supervision Commission of the Isle of Man and registered with the Insurance and Pensions Authority in respect of general business. Calls may be recorded. Network charges may apply.

from

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Test your flying skills with the Griffin HELO TC Chopper using your iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. Download the free HELO TC Chopper app onto your iOS or Android device and fly the helicopter in either of two ways. Use a virtual joystick on the multi-touch display to manoeuvre the chopper, or tilt your phone or tablet device to move the aircraft forwards, backwards, and side to side. The HELO TC Chopper is the most fun you can have with a helicopter without being in one!

This is a great gift for making sure that everyone is in those Christmas pics of family and friends. It’s the latest version of a wireless Bluetooth monopod and the perfect tool for taking ‘selfie’ photos on your smartphone. Features include a built-in remote camera control function and an adjustable holder that allows random rotation of shooting angle.

4G superfast mobile broadband is great for anyone who loves using their smartphone to stream live HD TV on the move or wants the fastest on-Island mobile download speeds to get the latest album, movie or app. This Christmas, Manx Telecom have a fantastic range of FREE 4G ready smartphones for pay monthly customers, with tariffs starting at just £20 per month or with 4G coming to PAYG early 2015 why not grab yourself a 4G Pay As You Go smartphone from £139.

our 4G best sellers... Sony Z3 Compact Good is compact, great is a compact smartphone with uncompromised performance

It’s almost christmas time and the gifting season is upon us, so we thought we’d give you a rundown of some of the season’s must haves this Christmas, from selfie sticks to remote control copters controlled by your smartphone!

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Smartwatches make a fantastic Christmas gift for gadget geeks. With watches like the LG G Watch R: you can use a great range of apps on the move – whether it’s to monitor your fitness workouts or use navigation apps. Prices start from £149 in our smartwatch range and there are many more smartwatches to choose from in store

Extended opening hours are in operation throughout the festive period. see www.manxtelecom.com/christmas for up to date times. Don’t forget to call in-store to donate your toys for children less fortunate this Christmas, in association with Manx Telecom, 3FM and The Children’s Centre

iPhone 5S The highly advanced iPhone 5s is not only loaded with features and innovations, its an incredible value

iPhone 6 4.7 inch Retina HD display. Available in silver, gold & space grey

call 624 624 see in-store visit manxtelecom.com/christmas

*Terms & Conditions apply

FEATURE

WORDS Grace Ryan, material girl ILLUSTRATION Hermione Benest

Once upon a time, the Isle of Man had an economy that remained afloat on British families who thought an exotic destination was one that involved getting on a boat. Our people weren’t wealthy, but we were happy with what we had. Our Cinderella story came in the form of the finance industry, which transformed our humble Island virtually overnight into a glittering pumpkin of high society parties and ostentatious wealth. I’ve heard it said that it resembles something from The Great Gatsby, but I’ve had a permanent champagne hangover since back then, so haven’t had a chance to get much reading done beyond back issues of Tatler. What I do know is that the Isle of Man’s realm of beautiful people can be a difficult place to live if you lack the means to provide yourself with the kind of lifestyle you know

Tip #1: get a job, but not a real job

you deserve. I’m ashamed to reveal that my parents were upper-middle class at best – if I hadn’t disowned them at 16 years old there was a chance I might have had to work for a living. Instead, to fulfil my dreams of becoming a society princess, I was forced to marry into money two or three times, but unfortunately girls and boys these days will discover that a good sugar daddy can be hard to find. A combination of watertight prenuptial agreements and more efficient heart medicine has

Work? Shocking, I know. But before you recoil in horror, understand that I don’t mean anything as demeaning as doing any actual labour. It is important to remember that wealth is mostly about appearances, so the last thing you want to do is give the impression of actually needing to earn money for yourself. Your task is to create a convincing outward impression of success, so at best you should get a job that mostly involves looking glamorous and meeting wealthy people, like a charity fundraiser or botox clinic receptionist. The graft element manifests itself whilst constructing an elaborate lifestyle for yourself that you can still afford (perhaps with the help of a credit card) but that will convince those wealthy people that you deserve to spend time in their radiant presence. A nice little job is a win-win, even if you don’t work your way into a billionaire’s hot tub. At the very least, you’ll have money to pay credit card interest and will fool other less-rich people into thinking you’re just a tiny bit above them, which is better than nothing.

dramatically reduced your chances of becoming a merry widow in your late twenties. I have a shocking message for today’s aspiring gold diggers: If you want to squeeze your way into high society you’re going to need to do a bit more than wander around Douglas in Manolos and a miniskirt.

Tip #2: appearances are deceptive, darling

As I’ve said, wealth is mostly about surface detail. Rich people may appear to be very good at not noticing poor people, but in reality they are finely attuned to signals that might indicate you can’t afford to buy a round of drinks at Bath & Bottle. To stand a hope of blending in, you must camouflage yourself like sci-fi jungle hunter, The Predator. But tailor the look so it would appear that The Predator had an account card at Harrods. I wouldn’t actually waste money on real luxury clothes, as the same sweatshops that make them usually do a pretty nifty line of bootlegs available to anybody who knows how to surf the Internet in Chinese. A wiser investment in your future would involve a few hundred quid’s worth of costume jewellery, a wardrobe full of knock-off Chanel and so much plastic surgery and fake hair that you’re a fire hazard under strong lights.

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FEATURE

“The upper classes have their own special form of scruffy, and are surprisingly adept at telling the difference between somebody who has dreadlocks because they’re taking a gap yah in India and somebody who only has them because they sell blankets at the Glastonbury festival” Tip #3: only high society can get away with slumming it

Never, ever think that you can get away with looking rough at the edges, even if you’ve spotted countless posh people who look like they haven’t bothered with nice clothes, a Mulberry handbag or even underarm deodorant. The upper classes have their own special form of scruffy, and are surprisingly adept at telling the difference between somebody who has dreadlocks because they’re taking a “gap yah” in India and somebody who only has them because they sell blankets at the Glastonbury festival. There are also rich people who are filthy simply because they are so rich that nobody dares tell them they smell like a wet Labrador. You could try and pull this off but you’ll need a mucky Land Rover, the ability to shout aggressively at random staff and celebrate (rather unashamedly) that you share the exact same political opinions of Prince Philip. A good place to start is to talk about poor people as if they are all lazy, dirty, work-shy parasites. The botox should help you keep a straight face.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Tip #4: lifestyles of the poor and infamous

As wealth is about appearances, a fauxluxury lifestyle is about accessories. It’s tough to fake yachting around the Caribbean, but if you can blag hire-purchase on a nice car you can quite easily swan around The Isle of Man like you’re suffering through the downtime between Ascot and a Nepalese yoga retreat. Get a normal dog, shave its hair in a weird pattern and tell people it’s an expensive pedigree hybrid. For foodie credibility you can steal pictures of luxury meals from the internet and repost them on your Instagram account - if anybody challenges you when they spot you buying supermarket own brands just roll your eyes and report them for shoplifting as soon as they’re in the vegetable aisle. If you get questioned by a genuine rich person at any point in this campaign of deception, mutter something about a stoppage on your trust fund or a hold up in probate whilst some ghastly auntie with a nickname like ‘Toggy’, ‘Bimpy’ or ‘Elizabeth Bathory’ contests Grandfather’s will. As genuine rich people often have zero idea how money works they will probably believe you, and may even invite you to live in the pool house until you can afford a pool and/or house of your own.

Tip #5: the past is another country

The single most important thing to remember when penetrating high society is that you will need to be lubricated with a convincing back-story. Unlike Americans, most wealthy Europeans will not be impressed to hear that you climbed your way up from nothing. Feudalism has technically vanished but nonetheless, people who inherited massive wealth still subconsciously believe that they are a separate species, favoured by God, genetics or a combination of both. You need to have been born into it, or at least in the same hospital, so if you can’t muster any good anecdotes about boarding school you will need to invent a Dickensian tale of woe that sees you forced by cruel fate to squander your birthright and mingle with commoners. This will necessitate your new wealthy pals from never having to meet your family, co -workers or anybody who remembers you from nursery. I would advise that cover can be maintained by the aforementioned plastic surgery and perhaps a new name, but as with all these tips the most important part of living a lie is that you must first come to believe it yourself. Dump your friends and family; get a second credit card and a new passport with your post-surgery face. I’ll see you in the champagne lounge, but you’ll be picking up the bill, darling.

UPFRONT

WHAT’S ON

DECEMBER 2014

06 - 04.01.15

ICE SKATING //TYNWALD MILLS// Ice skating is back at Tynwald Mills - bigger and better. For more information and to book visit www.iceskate.im

06.12.14

SHENANIGANS BANNED //THE INSTITUTE, LAXEY// A rip roaring evening of festive fun and frivolity. £6 entry – tickets from Laxey Chemist and Gophers, Ramsey. www.theinstitute.im

07 - 13.12.14

PEEL PANTALOONS PRESENTS CINDERELLA //PEEL CENTENARY CENTRE// A traditional pantomime by Ben Crocker, directed by Mel Read. Rousing songs, slapstick humour with not one, but two pantomime dames. Full details of matinee and evening performances, and how to buy tickets (£8) visit the website. www.centenarycentre.com

13.12.14

FESTIVE MUSIC //THE INSTITUTE, LAXEY// Laxey and Lonan Community Choir and friends. www.theinstitute.im

20-03.01.15

PUSS IN BOOTS & THE THREE MUSKETEERS //GAIETY THEATRE, DOUGLAS//

Go on an adventure with our local Puss in Boots as he encounters all of the traditional pantomime characters including Dame Rosebud, her nephew Sam and his wicked sister, The Duke and his beautiful daughter, The Radiant Fairy and not forgetting the inimitable Three Musketeers. Box Office t: (01624) 600555 | www.villagaiety.com

01.01.15

NEW YEARS DAY DIP

//PEEL&DOUGLAS//

06 – 07.12.14

A CHRISTMAS PAST //MILNTOWN, RAMSEY// Step back in time to experience Christmas from the turn of the 20th century in this historic venue. Traditional activities for children, and homemade seasonal refreshments for all. 12 noon, 2pm and 3.30pm. Booking essential. t: (01624) 812321 |

www.milntown.org

06.12.14

PORT ERIN MAGICAL CHRISTMAS //PORT ERIN// Port Erin’s Magical Christmas. 3.30- 8.30 pm. Steam Train departs Douglas at 15.30 arrives 16.30 . Santas Grotto, Alternative Tree Festival, Christmas Market , Grand Lantern Parade, Traditional Children’s Fair . Street Entertainment. Concert at the Erin Arts Centre. t: (01624) 697457 | www.milntown.org

13 - 21.12.14

SANTA EXPRESS //RAILWAY STATION, DOUGLAS// 13th, 14th, 20th and 21st December. Take the Santa Express to Santa’s Grotto, get a wonderful present and have tea, coffee, mulled wine, mince pies, hot turkey or pork and stuffing rolls on the Dining Car. £15 per person including train fare, Santa visit and food. See website for departure times. t: (01624) 697457 | www.iombusandrail.info

20.12 .14

THE CAVE CHRISTMAS PARTY //VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// Get in the festive spirit and dance the night away to all your favourite tracks from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s with DJ David Cretney. Free before 10pm. £5.00 after 10pm. Age restriction over 21’s. Box Office t: (01624) 600555 | www.villagaiety.com

21- 28.03.15

WEST SIDE STORY //GAIETY THEATRE// West Side Story is the award-winning adaptation of the classic romantic tragedy, “Romeo and Juliet”. The feuding families become two warring New York City gangs - the white Jets led by Riff, and the Puerto Rican Sharks, led by Bernardo. Box Office t: (01624) 600555 | www.villagaiety.com

Charity event where people Dip in sea on 1st January at 12 noon. (Additional events are planned around the Island) t: (01624) 843974 | www.peeldip.com |www.douglasdip.com

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Secure Banking Promise

Money for presents without your wallet. Magic. The Isle of Man Bank Mobile Banking app lets you get cash without your debit card. Easy. Fast. Secure. Get Cash lets you take out up to ÂŁ250 per day from any RBS Group cash machine when you have at least ÂŁ25 in your account (including any overdraft facility).

Search: Isle of Man Bank iombank.com/helpfulbanking To use Get Cash, the amount requested must be within the daily withdrawal limit for your debit card. App available on selected smartphones, to personal current account customers with a debit card, Online Banking and valid mobile number. Isle of Man Bank Limited (IOMB). Registered Company Number: 1 Isle of Man. Registered Office: 2 Athol Street, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM99 1AN. Licensed by the Financial Supervision Commission of the Isle of Man and registered with the Insurance and Pensions Authority in respect of general business. Calls may be recorded. Network charges may apply.

UPFRONT

CHRISTMAS AT

Want to add some sparkle to your Christmas shopping this year? Look no further than The Strand Shopping Centre. This year the Centre is going all out to make everyones’ Christmas a magical experience. The Centres’ great selection of shops means it’s easy to find Christmas gifts for all your loved ones, even those who are tricky to buy for. Alongside popular high street brands like HMV, Miss Selfridge, Millets, Peacocks, Mothercare, ELC and the Card Factory we also have some great independents for that bespoke gift such as Modeltech, The Craft Guild and our new addition Queen Bee. When visiting any of the shop’s you see what you are getting and deal with real people who provide expert advice and service with the human touch. After all, Christmas shopping should be enjoyable, hassle free and personal. Something you don’t get when shopping online. During the festive period the sounds of carol singers and brass bands echoing through the Centre creates a wonderful celebratory atmosphere. When you have shopped till you drop, visited Santa in his Winter Wonderland, sang a carol or two why not relax and take in the atmosphere while enjoying a tasty treat at Café Avanti.

shopping should be enjoyable, hassle free and personal. Something you don’t get when shopping online.

With the added bonus of free parking on our doorstep in Chester Street Car Park on Saturdays, Sundays and Thursday evenings up to Christmas it couldn’t be easier.

Merry Christmas to you all from everyone The Strand Shopping Centre.

TEL: 01624 662411 14

“ Christmas

/thestrandshoppingcentre

”

/strandshopping www.thestrand.co.im ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

Thursday 4th Dec

What’s on

The Douglas Choral Union Mayor’s Charity – Gift Wrapping Service

Saturday 6th Dec

Meet the Cast from ‘Puss in Boots’ Panto

Thursday 11th Dec

Douglas Town Band St Thomas’s School Nativity

Friday 12th Dec

St Thomas’s School Carol Singing

Saturday 13th Dec

The Bree Manx Choir The Salvation Army Band

Saturday 20th Dec

The Salvation Army Band Mayor’s Charity – Gift Wrapping Service

Monday 22nd Dec

Friday Lunchtime Choir

TEL: 01624 662411 BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

/thestrandshoppingcentre

/strandshopping www.thestrand.co.im

UPFRONT

Take the hassle out of Christmas, don’t stress about that present not arriving in the post, come to The Strand and speak to real people who offer great customer service and who can offer you the best advice and after sales service.

Merry Christmas from The Strand Shopping Centre The Strand presents 12 great gift ideas & best sellers for Christmas…

GIFT ONE

Christmas Card Box Sets from 99p

GIFT FOUR

Christmas Baby Dress £14.00

TEL: 01624 662411 16

GIFT TWO

Homemade Cheesecake & Luxury Hot Chocolate £5.15

GIFT FIVE

Advent Calendar £40.00

/thestrandshoppingcentre

GIFT THREE

Beats Headphones £99.99

GIFT SIX

Peter Storm Fleece 2 for £10.00

/strandshopping www.thestrand.co.im ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

GIFT SEVEN

GIFT EIGHT

GIFT NINE

Embellished Evening Dress £99.00

Twister Quadcopter £279.00

Christmas Jumper £18.00 Turkey Hat £5.00

GIFT TEN

GIFT ELEVEN

GIFT TWELVE

Sparkly Cocktail Dress £59.99

Wooden Train Table £100.00

SANTA’S WINTER WONDERLAND OPENING TIMES ARE AS FOLLOWS Thursdays 5.00pm - 8.00pm Saturdays 11.30am - 4.30pm Sundays 1.00pm - 4.00pm Monday 22nd Dec 11.30am - 4.30pm Tuesday 23rd Dec 11.30am - 4.30pm Wednesday 24th Dec 11.30am - 3.00pm

Christmas experience all for £6

SHOP FOR LONGER AT THE STRAND WITH OUR EXTENDED OPENING HOURS Every Thursday from 20 Nov: Open until 9pm Mon 22nd Dec & Tue 23rd Dec: Open until 8pm Christmas Eve: Open until 4pm Christmas Day: CLOSED Boxing Day: Open 11am until 5pm Wednesday 31st Dec: Open until 4pm

Love Christmas. Love the Strand.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

New Years Day: CLOSED

UPFRONT

RICH AND FAMOUS It’s well known and documented that the lifestyle of the rich and famous if one of extravagance and littered with indulgences… Here are some of those extravagant luxuries:

THE RANDOMNESS OF

MISC

Excessive Personal Entourages for those who are busy counting their money and need assistants to erm.. count their money?

$100+ million homes because obviously ridiculous amounts of space and rooms that won’t be used is essential to showbiz.

At the end of that mansion there must obviously be a strategically placed super-yacht for all the neighbours to see.. unless they don’t have neighbours, which they generally don’t.

HOME SWEET DRONE

Property Purchase is something that goes on everyday, people save up their entire lives to buy a house they can make a home. We are all well aware of the extravagant purchases going on in the world, mainly through the celebrity culture and their need to post endless selfies in front of their new million dollar purchases. However, the CEO of a gaming company took things to another level (no pun intended) by purchasing a virtual planet, called Calypso, on the online gaming platform ‘Entropia Universe’ for $6 million. This makes it the most expensive virtual purchase EVER! We know this is confusing, buying a virtual world in an online game, surely it was virtual money too. Nope, unfortunately not. Somebody did actually pay $6 million for a world they can’t visit, a house they can’t sleep in and to make things worse, they have to pay their monthly subscriptions to even have access to their gaming planet.

Personal islands named after themselves because they don’t have enough space at home and need to get away from all the troubles they don’t have.

Purchasing a professional sports team because they want free ticket to all the games…

Countless TV interviews where they discuss with another rich person how rich they really are.

BIG BAD WOLF?

The film the Wolf of Wall Street is based on the life of debauchery of Jordan Belfort, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, that he carries out whilst scamming people out of money through the stock market. The real Jordan Belfort has said although the film is accurate he thinks his real life was probably worse, filled with more illegal indulgences and opulent binges. The real Jordan is still paying back the $110.4 million dollars he was ordered to pay after being imprisoned for 22 months for his criminal activities.

OH CHRISTMAS TREE!

The Emirates Palace Hotel in Dubai unveiled an $11.5 million Christmas Tree, making it the most expensive Christmas tree ever. The 40ft evergreen tree alone cost $10,000 but the real bulk of the price came from the lavish jewels it was decked in. With diamonds, pearls, emeralds, sapphires this tree made the original Frankincense and Myrrh look like the pair of sock you used to get off of your Grandma when you were 10. The jewels were loaned from a local jewellery gallery. If any local jewellers need a place to keep their diamonds this festive season just get in contact, I’m sure we will be more than happy to help you out. Tis’ the season of goodwill after all...

WEDDING BELLS, SLEIGH BELLS

With the end of November through to New Year’s Day making up 33% of all marriage proposals, it certainly says something about chivalry or perhaps the guys who are just egged on by too much eggnog. This means finding the perfect glacier to place upon her finger to guarantee a yes, because as we all know if you like it then you should put a ring on it… There’s nothing wrong with a grand gesture, in fact, we love them, but what about a 24.78-carat pink diamond ring worth $46 million. Yeah, we probably wouldn’t say no either. The ring was purchased at an auction in Geneva by London diamond dealer Laurence Graff, setting a World Record for the most expensive jewel ever sold at auction.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

FESTIVE in

NEWS NUMBERS

650

Obviously we all know that Santa has magical powers, but researchers have calculated just how magical Father Christmas really is. They found that in order to deliver all of his presents on Christmas Eve Santa would need to travel at 650 miles per second and visit 822 homes a second – no wonder he needs to eat so many mince pies.

0.8 Nearly every family cosies up and watches It’s A Wonderful Life over Christmas, but did you know that this Christmas movie favourite had an FBI file? Although ludicrous, this shocking Christmas fact is real. In 1947 some thought the movie was a communist ploy and that its purpose was to undermine bankers.

Robins are a Christmas card favourite and you’re likely to receive several glittery Christmas cards with a robin emblazoned cheerily on the front. Yet, robins can be seen in the UK (where the Christmas card tradition began) throughout the year. So why are they so popular at Christmas? Well, back in the nineteenth century postmen wore red tunics and were nicknamed ‘Robin Postmen’. Therefore putting a robin on a Christmas card was in fact a joke.

Do you think you get a little heavier over the festive period? Even though most of us over-indulge and enjoy a few too many feasts studies have found that we don’t actually put on as much as we think. The study found that participants thought they put on at least 5lbs (2.27kg), but they had actually only gained an average amount of 0.8lb (0.36kg) over the Christmas period.

1947

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

1,270

If you thought your works secret Santa was a tricky and complex business then imagine how difficult it was to organise the workers at Boots UK Limited, who took part in the largest ever secret Santa. The present swap involved 1,270 people and took place in 2008.

You would think that Christmas is one of the most romantic times of the year. Mistletoe, open fires and endless parties is the perfect mix to get close to your other half, yet by looking at Facebook posts researchers has discovered that lots of couples break up two weeks before Christmas. In fact this period is the second most common time of the year for couples to split

UPFRONT

SANTA DASH

Dash for cash! So, what are you doing Wednesday 17th December? Can you spare your lunch hour just for one day of the year? Fit enough to drag yourself around the short Douglas Town Centre course? Then why not get involved with the annual Charity Santa Dash and help make it the biggest year ever! Anyone can enter, and you don’t have to race – leave that to the amazing athletes that complete the course in under 5 minutes! All you have to do is dress up in a Santa outfit, raise a little money for your chosen charity and have a load of fun with all the other fun runners. We’ll have TV and radio there, the roads will be closed and we always get a great crowd to roar the runners on – it’ll be the best 5 minutes of your year!

team, come along and make it a year to remember, you’ll even get a goody bag and a festive warm down reception after the race.

Entering is easier than ever. Pop in to any branch of Isle of Man Bank to pick up a form, call Jane Howland on 646622 or go to the Santa Dash website at www.iombank.com/santadash.

2013 RESULTS 20 people awarded spot prizes of £100 for their chosen charity 222 Santa Dashers started - £25,000 raised Winner: Stephen Garrett 2nd Jamie Newton 3rd Ed Gumbley Fastest Lady Santa: Gail Griffiths Best Dressed Santas: Mark Emery and Laura Gill

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

DRESS UP & DASH... ! FOR C HARITY C ASH Every year, over 100 people take part in our annual Santa Dash through the streets of Douglas Town Centre, raising valuable money for their chosen charities. This year, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hoping to do even better! So, if you can sprint, jog or even just walk the course, we would love to see you there.

WEDNESDAY 17th DECEMBER 2014

LOADS OF PRIZES & LOADS OF FUN

How to enter: Pick up an entry form from any Isle of Man Bank branch Call Jane Howland on 646622 and we can email you a form Visit our website and download the form www.iombank.com/santadash

FEATURE

WORDS | Donna White ILLUSTRATION | Adam Berry

KOOKY CHRISTMAS? For most of us, Christmas is the season to be with family.

FREAKY FEAST

FESTIVE BONDING

ROTTEN ROAST For most of us Christmas dinner wouldn’t be the same without roast turkey and all the trimmings. But if you thought you were brave for tucking into mum’s lumpy mash potato, spare a thought for the folk of Greenland, who’ll be feasting on something far more pungent. They eat the raw flesh of an auk – a bird similar in appearance to a penguin. ‘Kiviak’ is a gastronomical Christmas treat, which, for some reason, hasn’t been adopted by many other nations. It’s made from the raw flesh of auk which has been buried under a stone in sealskin for several months until it’s achieved an advanced stage of decomposition. As one might imagine, it smells like old blue cheese and has an extremely strong taste.

CRYSTAL BAUBLES Czech Republic Christmas traditions involve predictions for the future. Apples are always cut crosswise. If a star appears in the core, the next year will be successful, while a cross suggest a bad year. Girls throw shoes over their shoulder. If the toe points to the door, the girl will get married soon. Another tradition requires pouring a little molten lead into water and guessing a message from the shapes that appear when it hardens.

TREE TREASURES

the

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FEATURE

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

UPFRONT

Welcome, dear reader, to Current Affairs; your chance to pose any number of questions to the Island’s business community.

MARTIN HUMPHREYS Principal King William’s College

KING WILLIAM’S COLLEGE

CA UF RF RA EI NR TS 24

How do you keep a child’s mind stimulated during the holidays? 1. Challenge them to relinquish their mobile phone, tablet and laptop for a week. 2. Give them a real book to read. 3. Drop them 15 miles from home with a packed lunch, a compass and no phone and wish them well. 4. Ask them to write a poem. 5. Give them a copy of Sonnet 76. 6. Ask them to cook you dinner. 7. Set them this challenge: research average earnings; research average lifespan; research average tax rates. How much tax will you pay in your lifetime? 8. Ask them to write a letter to a loved one. 9. Make a plan for the inevitable holiday homework.

We invite you to ask our experts on the topics that matter to you. Simply send your questions to editorial@ gallery.co.im.

EDWARD HOUGHTON Senior Manager KPMG

KPMG I have heard the FRC mentioned in relation to the recent Tesco financial issues. What is the FRC and what does it do? The Financial Reporting Council (FRC) is the UK’s independent regulator responsible for high quality corporate governance with the aim of fostering investment. The FRC sets the framework of codes and standards for the accounting, auditing, actuarial and investor communities and oversees the conduct of the professionals involved. Its goal is to ensure that the capital markets benefit from timely and relevant information about company performance and board behaviour. The FRC sets the standards framework within which auditors, actuaries and accountants operate in the UK. It also sponsors the UK Corporate Governance Code (for companies) and the Stewardship Code (for investors). These governance structures continue to evolve with the objective of providing a consistent framework for business activities and reporting. The FRC achieves this by reviewing market information released by companies for its relevance, compliance with regulation and transparency. After focussing on larger London Stock Exchange listed entities, the FRC has publicly stated its intention to increase scrutiny of smaller listed companies, and in particular those admitted to AIM. This is of particular relevance to the Isle of Man given its standing as a leading jurisdiction for AIM listed entities outside of the UK. As the market leaders on the Isle of Man for both AIM and Main Market listed entities, we have been working with our clients to ensure that market information, such as annual and interim reports, provides useful and relevant information to users in accordance with appropriate Standards and Listing Rules.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

ANDREW GERRAD

GREG ELLISON

BOSTON GROUP What are your predictions for the fiduciary sector in 2015?

Let’s start by looking at the opportunities. The island’s aircraft register remains a shining light of excellence with around 750 private jets registered since inception and the Island’s Shipping Register also remains strong. The Monaco Yacht Show in September this year was, from the experience of my company, by far and away the most successful of recent years, supported superbly by the Department of Economic Development. The opportunities at such shows are often not limited to the most obvious ones. There is ample scope to pick up family office, aircraft and property structuring opportunities as well as yachting. A lot has also been made of cryptocurrency opportunities. The island has positioned itself well to compete in this exciting, high growth sector in 2015. However, we desperately need to find a banking solution to support these new businesses. eGaming remains a vital economic contributor. The future is challenging, given changes to tax laws affecting the sector. That said, firms that choose to innovate and understand the sector will continue to find opportunities. Yet, challenges remain. The impact of supra-national tax laws such as FATCA will start to hit home for those firms that haven’t adequately prepared. Finally, the economic recovery in the UK could slow down due to the ongoing issues in Europe and a slowing in Asia. For those willing to show innovation, hunger and service excellence, however, the opportunities will always outweigh the challenges.

MARCO LEONETTI

Director Harding Lewis Limited

CEO Boston Limited

HARDING LEWIS What accounting and tax changes can I expect for my business in 2015

Owner, Utopia

UTOPIA Are there any seasonal trends in your line of business?

We are not expecting major changes to the tax system on the island in the short term. More interesting are the longer term trends where big changes are afoot. These will be driven by the need for government to either make more significant cuts to its expenditure, impose major increases in taxes or, perhaps more likely, a combination of both. The reader should be aware, however, that these are my opinion only.

As we hurtle towards one of the biggest seasonal influences in hairdressing - a little occasion called Christmas - we hairdressers are always amazed at how these fabulous ladies, who for eleven months of the year are a pleasure to serve, are all of a sudden carried away with the need to change the way they look! Christmas is a massive style influence; the need to look extra special puts the individual under loads of pressure.

Pensions and national insurance - Businesses will be required to take responsibility for making private pension provision for staff. This is likely to be phased in over a few years.

The holiday season is important. Let’s face it; we all want an easy hair style that is both time affordable and manageable.

Concerning national insurance - The Government is likely to break the UK link and largely go it alone. What this means to rates is not clear, but employer national insurance and/or pension provision costs will increase perhaps by 5% or more over a few years.. Business rates - These are likely to be significantly increased. Levels on the island, though welcome, are significantly lower than in the UK and some other jurisdictions. Indirect tax - The UK tax trend is currently to take lower earners out of direct taxation, however the sums don’t add up yet. Indirect taxes will need to increase to compensate for this loss of revenue.

The Americans also have a lot to answer for because they invented the prom. Now, most young adults have two prom dates and having the must have “prom look” is like finding the Holy Grail! Students now even have prom practice, where they have trial runs so that their hair is absolutely perfect on the big night. And, finally, A-list celebrities now drive hairstyles, so when popular programmes are being aired they definitely stimulate hair trends. At the end of the day, it all comes down to the old saying: “a woman that doesn’t change becomes invisible”. Have a great festive period from all of the team at Utopia and Purité salons.

Income tax - Direct tax rates will not increase or at least the higher rate of 20% will not be raised. If I am wrong then we might as well all go home: low tax is still a vital USP for the island.

Utopia’s boutique hair salon & Purite beauty rooms with Alex at our Walpole Avenue Salon J Walk in service J Weddings & Special occasions J Convenient town centre location

Marco and the team at Walpole avenue

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Walpole Avenue Salon 7-11 Walpole Avenue, Douglas, IM1 2LT & 01624 616515 www.utopiahaircare.com / www.purite.im

UPFRONT

Little Diamonds Nursery is Peter Halpin and Karen Hanly’s newest addition to their development of Diamond House on the corner of Westmoreland Road and Demesne Road.

lready home to Hanly’s Convenience Store, Warehouse Fitness and Salon Rouge – the final part of Diamond House has now been converted into a purpose built children’s nursery which is expected to open in January 2015. The nursery is ideally located near to central Douglas and has a convenient area outside for parents to be able to pull in and drop off or collect their children even at the busiest times of day.

“At Little Diamonds we understand that young children need to feel safe, secure and stimulated in order to learn. We provide a warm and caring environment within which all children can progress.”

The building has been designed and decorated to provide a very simple, bright and spacious area for young children to work, rest and play. Importantly the design has also focussed on keeping things small; and with a capacity of 28 children, Mums, Dads and Carer’s can be sure that their little ones are being very well looked after by a highly dedicated and experienced team. There are two classrooms either side of the ‘Hush-a-bye’ room which is used for sleep time and group story time. The ‘Little Gems’ classroom caters for 2 to 3 year olds; whilst the pre-school children’s activities take place in the ‘Little Diamonds’ classroom. Nursery Manager Sharon Humphries is a motivated and incredibly enthusiastic person with a passion for giving children the best possible foundation for a lifetime of learning and personal development. Sharon

has worked in childcare since 1996. She previously ran her own nursery in England where she continuously received ‘Outstanding’ reports from OFSTED and glowing reviews from parents. Since moving to the Island five years ago Sharon has worked at Parklands Nursery in Ramsey and more recently she was the Nursery Manager at The Pumpkin Patch in Governors Hill.

Talking about her role Sharon said “At Little Diamonds we understand that young children need to feel safe, secure and stimulated in order to learn. We provide a warm and caring environment within which all children can progress. Children are well cared for in a homely setting whilst having direct contact to a stimulating learning environment which will encourage them to explore, investigate and learn through firsthand experience. To be effective an Early Years Curriculum needs to be carefully structured. Children need opportunities to engage in activities

50% off ALL childcare fees for the first three weeks after they open. Everyone who takes advantage of that offer then gets 25% off the next three weeks!

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

planned by adults, but equally as important are those that they initiate for themselves. A well prepared combination of both will engage children wholeheartedly in the learning process. At Little Diamonds the children will ‘have their say’ because when we say ‘free play’ we mean it! We understand fully that every child is unique and that it is crucial to their future success that their earliest experiences are positive ones.” Peter said “As soon as Karen and I met Sharon we knew she was the right person to run Little Diamonds. She has an incredible energy and warmth about her and it is easy to see why both parents and children love her.”

conjunction with Warehouse Fitness for the development of the loft space above the nursery. During the day time the space will become a unique 200sq m indoor “outdoor” play area for the nursery giving the children a beautiful and safe place to burn off their excess energy in both play and by taking part in structured exercise classes. The children will even have their own bouncy castle to play on!

“Children are well cared for in a homely setting whilst having direct contact to a stimulating learning environment which will encourage them to explore, investigate and learn through firsthand experience.”

Finding the right childcare at the right price can be a major problem for many parents. The team are so confident that your little ones will love their new nursery that once you have a place you won’t want to give it up! With this in mind, once Little Diamonds opens. THEY ARE OFFERING 50% OFF ALL CHILDCARE FEES FOR THE FIRST THREE WEEKS AFTER THEY OPEN. EVERYONE WHO TAKES ADVANTAGE OF THAT OFFER THEN GETS 25% OFF THE NEXT THREE WEEKS!

As stunning as it is, the development of Little Diamonds is not finished yet. Plans are currently being drawn up in

For more information about Little Diamonds, or to register your interest for a place, please call 625835, or email gems@checkout14.com BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

UPFRONT

OUR COMMUNITY

GIVE OVERTONES CONCERT RAISES £12,000 FOR JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT ISLE OF MAN For the second year in a row The Overtones came to the Isle of Man, conquered their audience…and helped raise £12,000 for Junior Achievement Isle of Man. The boys - Darren, Lachie, Mark, Mike and Timmy – wowed a packed Villa Marina with their immaculate voices, looks and routines…and it looks as if they may be returning again in 2015 for another ultimate feel-good show.

MANX TREKKERS’ MOROCCON MOUNTAIN MARATHON A team of fundraisers made it to the top of the highest mountain in North Africa as part of a charity challenge organised by The Children’s Centre. The group of 17 trekkers set off for the summit of Mount Toubkal which is 4,167metres above sea level and the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains. Fifteen of the party made it to the top and the whole group raised a total of £12,750 which will go towards helping The Children’s Centre’s charitable projects. HMS VIGILANT DONATES £1500 TO MAYORAL CHARITY APPEAL The mayoral charity appeal has been boosted by £1500 thanks to crew members of HMS Vigilant, which enjoys a civic affiliation with Douglas. The team of 11 submariners spent time in the Isle of Man in September as part of an epic bike fundraising bike ride from their home port of Clyde. During their visit the team also tackled the TT course to raise funds for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines charity. The £1500 will benefit Cruse Bereavement Care, the Douglas Live at Home Scheme and St Mary’s Lourdes Youth.

BOBBY MOORE FUND FOR CANCER RESEARCH UK CHARITY GOLF DAY RAISES RECORD SUM

H&B’S PASSION FOR PINK RAISES MORE THAN £1000 FOR BREAST CANCER CHARITIES

The Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK charity golf day has raised £25,365.97, the highest amount in the history of the event which, since its launch in 2011, has now boosted the charity’s funds by more than £85,000.

Heron & Brearley defied the fashion police to do good and look good, by proudly wearing pink on Friday October 24th in support of Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group.

Sponsored by Celton Manx for the fourth successive year, the golf day and dinner were held at the Mount Murray Hotel in September and attracted 18 teams drawn largely from the Island’s business community. Architect of the golf day is Lars Ugland who heads the organisingteam and who, together with his wife Geraldine, was close friends with Bobby Moore. Mr and Mrs Ugland have continued that friendship with his widow Stephanie, an ardent supporter of the event who was guest of honour at this year’s prize presentation and dinner.

Staff at H&B’s head office in Kewaigue joined forces with colleagues across the group, wearing pink and holding fundraising cake bake sales, quizzes, raffles and sweepstakes. Spar convenience stores sold Manx Cancer Support Group badges, The Central in Ramsey served pink food, mixologists at Artisan in Victoria Street concocted pink cocktails and staff in all the participating pubs invited customers to join in the campaign to help fund breast cancer research and support the Noble’s Hospital breast cancer unit appeal.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

MENSWEAR

Menswear

FOR Men We cater for the over 35’s… Menswear FOR Men so no skinny fit in our place

Menswear for men 51 Strand Street, Douglas, IM1 2LF • T: 01624 623730 BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

“The Patient Practice”

49 24/10/2014 15:50 24/10/2014 15:50

Ballasalla

We’re welcoming new patients for both general dentistry and orthodontics. Call 823040 to book an appointment. An essential dental maintenance plan is available for only £12.95 a month (corporate packages also available).

Abbey Dental, 4 Silverburn Drive, Ballasalla, IM9 2DR

The Paddocks

IOM Bank

Silverburn Dr P

Ra Sta ilw tio ay n

A modern family centred dental practice offering a full range of dental services; specialising in tooth coloured restorations, fillings, crowns and bridges. Abbey Dental also offers dental implants and safe, effective tooth whitening.

Whitestone Pub

gla

u Do

To airport

Ample on-site parking, opposite Ballasalla Steam Train Station, on Local bus routes to Douglas, Peel, Castletown and Port St Mary

Telephone: 823040 Email: abbeydental@manx.net www.abbeydental.info

UPFRONT

ME & MY PET

me& mypet

CELIA Breed: Human

Where are you originally from? Douglas

Age: 52

What do you do for a living? Bar person/waitress and florist.

Likes: My allotment and walking my dog, and holidays.

Do you have any more pets? Yes - my cat Louis

Dislikes: Boring people

Would you have any more pets? Yes

If animal what would you be? Wolf

The best and worst thing about having a pet is..? The unconditional love they give you, always happy to see you and they keep you busy. The worst thing is losing them or seeing them ill.

Why did you choose a rescue pet? After losing my old collie Chancy, I felt like there was something missing, I missed walking her and the routine she gave me. I popped to the ManxSPCA because I was arranging a Mhelliah in Peel to raise funds for them – we collected £1300 on the night! – I was introduced to Monty and I fell in love with him. Where do you live on the Island? Peel.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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MONTY Breed? Collie Age? 19 months Likes? To wind the cat up and have cuddles and Schmackos Dislikes? People food If human what would you be? I would be with Celia Why do you love your human? Because she’s the best, she gave me a great new home with a big family life, lots of walks and love. I was shy when I was rescued but now I am coming out of my shell.

Give an animal

A HOME

FRANK

Frank is

Frank is a handsome grey rabbit, born in 2012, who loves to rearrange his cabin – he waits until his staff have cleaned it out in the morning and then gets busy moving everything around to his own satisfaction. He came to us because his owner became allergic to him and he’s looking for a new life in a home with older children who will play with him and treat him with respect. Frank will be great fun and he’s ready to go off to his happy new life where he can play and be the loving bunny he was born to be. Frank would like to be an indoor rabbit as rabbits are social creatures who need company. Have a look at www.rabbitwelfare’s youtube clip A Hutch ids Not Enough – it will make you cry! The old idea of putting a rabbit outside in a small hutch on its own is no longer accepted and rabbits like Frank can be litter trained just like a cat – they’re really good company!

If you had one wish what would you wish for? To have met Celia sooner, and a big bag of Schmackos.

SLINKY

Slinky is a cat with a mind of his own. He’s a handsome four year old black boy who is friendly if he’s in the mood but lets you know if he’s not happy. The way to his heart is through food as he loves to eat and devours everything you put in front of him. He came to Ard Jerkyll because he was being a bit of a nuisance in his neighbourhood, pestering the next door cat but once he’s settled in his new home he’ll learn to live by the rules and will be a happy cat again. He’d like to move south as he’s lived in the Kirk Michael area and is ready for a change of scenery but he’s a little unsure and defensive at present so give him a chance to become your friend and he’ll be a loving and friendly companion. He’s a great cat who just needs somebody to love him and he’ll love them right back!

ManxSPCA ARD JERKYLL, EAST FOXDALE • TEL: 851672

www.manxspca.com BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

UPFRONT

RANT

WORDS | Clare Bowie

CHRISTMAS WISH LIST ...Please keep your shoes on My 6 year old daughter recently informed me that she would like “instant grams” for Christmas. I wouldn’t mind so much except that I still haven’t managed to get my own instagram account up and running.

What was my Christmas wish? What statement could I make and am stuck on a loop of forgotten your password but you would anyone pay any attention? Turns out, my list was must sign in hell, it’s worse than trying to covertly establish endless: the final draft of the Santa list. I keep coming up with new passwords for my sign in at the same rate as the children come up with unauthorised list amendments. How can I possibly remember whose birthday our alone for one h or maiden name I used for my ninth e m ve a le se a but ple password attempt or if Lego friends 1. I love you all Stephanie’s Beach House or Sylvanian utes??) (ok, twenty min Families Maple Manor made the final ct all enquiries, re di se a le p e, Christmas cut? I can already feel my ic vo 2. I've lost my er cortisol cup floweth over and we’ve only ts to your fath n ra d n a ts en opened door one on the Advent calendar. lam

Let me be clear here, I try and instil some rules about good manners and teeth brushing and have a strictly no punching, or slamming doors policy but I am not running a shoes off, plastic covers on the sofa, no jumping on your bed type of establishment.

chris

ds a hug 27 3. Mummy nee I still think I'm se u a ec b er ov g n 4. Severely hu sturb please do not di s w ro eb ey y m 5. Plucking an r face without ou y sh a w st ju 6. Please tmas e love of God! th r fo t en m u arg ng be mostly readi ill w I y a od T 7. a book, goodbye be found in the n ca er n n di r 8. You e! You’re welcom s. oe in om D l ca lo

h wis li

Her desire for said “instant grams” started after a visit to a house where older and tidier girls live. My daughters came home with all sorts of terrible ideas about being cool and grown up and each sentence now begins with; “here’s the thing...” My eldest also announced that she would no longer be able to wear her puffa jacket because it made her look wide! I could tolerate (ignore) most of this but the final straw, the thing that seared my very soul was a notice on my big girl’s (8) door. The notice hung innocently underneath her 1D “I love Nile” declaration. All my thoughts of bad spelling dissolved when I saw the other note swinging casually below it. It read... “My room, take your shoes off”.

...It could go on but having surveyed the highlights I think I may be better advised to work on my patience and maybe get that password thing sorted before I learn how to impose a lockdown on all social media sites before my daughter starts posting pictures of illegal apple dunking and the like.

In fact, it’s quite unusual to find a sofa cushion without a smoothie imprint or a chocolate mousse motif. My daughter got wind of this “shoes off policy” idea in the same grown up girls household that banned apple dunking at their Halloween party for similar contamination reasons. I’m not going to get into it because it is clearly a very contentious subject but a “shoes off” policy can say a LOT about a person. Draw your own conclusions! However, my daughter seems quite taken with this alternative grass is always greener, carpets always cleaner family so I decided to go along with her bid for Independence and the next time I went into her room I removed my shoes and knocked on the door before I entered. It got me thinking about what kind of note I would put on my door.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

The German Kitchen Centre

Probably the Best Kitchens in the World ... Definitely for a lot less than you think

Directions: Take the 2nd right after the Falcons Nest Hotel

5ifth Dimension Ltd, Marina Lane, Port Erin - Tel: 830069 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN DESIGN - INSTALLATION - PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Opening Hours: Tues-Friday 10:00 - 17:00 Saturday 10:00 - 15:00

EVENTS

MANX BREAST CANCER SUPPORT BALL

Location - Mount Murray Hotel | Photos - dollsfactory.net

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

LLOYDS BANK CHARITY QUIZ NIGHT IN AID OF THE DIANA PRINCESS OF WALES CARE

Location - Bar George | Photos - dollsfactory.net BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

EVENTS

Sponsored by Bushey’s Brewery.

A selection of original and limited edition works by Keith Proctor is on display now at Genesis Gallery.

03.12.2014 – 31.01.2015 COOL MANX //ERIN ARTS CENTRE, PORT ERIN// An explosive exhibition of images by award winning illustrator Jo Davies. Inspired by the heritage and culture of the Isle of Man from a project developed in collaboration with the Manx Language Unit, the exhibition is generously supported by Culture Vannin. Jo, who is releasing a book to coincide with the exhibition, will be holding a workshop in December with two local schools and s a family workshop here in January 2015 which will be open to the public - check the website for dates.

www.facebook.com/SayleGallery

05/21.12.2014 * CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION

Showings at 2.30pm and 7.30pm – tickets £5 on the door. www.erinartscentre.com

16.12.14 *

//SAYLE GALLERY, DOUGLAS//

ALICE’S ADVENTURES IN WONDERLAND

An exhibition of work from a range of Island artists to admire and buy.

//STUDIO THEATRE, BALLAKERMEEN HIGH SCHOOL, DOUGLAS//

www.facebook.com/SayleGallery

06.12.2014 – 25.01.2015 EARTH //HODGSON LOOM GALLERY, LAXEY//

Streaming of Christopher Wheeldon’s full-length ballet based on Lewis Carroll’s book in an exuberant piece of storytelling featuring an instantly recognisable cast of characters, among them a tap-dancing Mad Hatter, a tetchy White Rabbit and a raucously bad-tempered Queen of Hearts.

www.erinartscentre.com

An exhibition of work from a wide variety of local artists, working in any medium, on the subject of ‘Earth’.

04.12.2014 – 03.01.2015

www.facebook/hodgsonloomgallery

www.thestudiotheatre.im

07.12.14

21.12.14

THE HIDDEN ELEMENT //THE ISLE GALLERY, ST JOHNS// Solo exhibition from Anna Clucas who is known for her bold, colourful and emotionally rich oil paintings. Also includes her illustrations from, ’Little Paul and the Moddey Dhoo’, written by Anna’s brother Paul. www.facebook/theislegallery www.annaclucas.com

05.12.2014 EAC PIANO SERIES – RYAN DRUCKER //ERIN ARTS CENTRE, PORT ERIN// Born in Belgium, Ryan is in his third year of the BMus (Hons) course at the Royal Northern College of Music. He has won a number of prizes in RNCM and outside the college, and has performed at distinguished venues including Wigmore Hall and Bridgewater Hall and attended masterclasses with renowned pianists. He was a prize winner in the Concerto Competition (2013) at the RNCM. Tickets: Adults £10 (EAC Members £9, U18’s £1) www.erinartscentre.com

* Supported by the Isle of Man Arts

THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE CONCERT

Tickets £15 (£12.50 concessions) from the Welcome Centre and www.villagaiety.com

THE NUTCRACKER

//MANX MUSEUM, DOUGLAS//

//BROADWAY CINEMA, VILLA MARINA//

As part of our special Sunday opening at the Manx Museum and in the spirit of the WW1 Christmas Truce of 1914 - music, carols and readings from the letters of Manx soldiers sent home from the front line at Christmas. Adults £6, children £3. 2pm.

Live streaming of the Bolshoi Ballet production of this seasonal classic. With iconic music by Tchaikovsky, and enchanting sets and costumes, this beautiful tale explores the universal themes of love, power and evil.

Tel: 648000 www.manxnationalheritage.im In association with DED. Tickets £15 (£12.50 concessions) from the Welcome Centre and www.villagaiety.com 09.12.14 *

JOHN //STUDIO THEATRE, BALLAKERMEEN HIGH SCHOOL, DOUGLAS// Live stream from the National Theatre of this powerful new production from internationally renowned DV8 Physical Theatre. Contains nudity and strong themes. Over 18s only.

ART GALLERY OPENING HOURS DURING THE FESTIVE PERIOD: SAYLE GALLERY: Closed 25 Dec – 6 Jan STUDIO 42

Closed 25 Dec – 6 Jan

ERIN ARTS CENTRE

Tickets £15 from the Welcome Centre and www.villagaiety.com

Closed 19 Dec – 7 Jan

www.thestudiotheatre.im

Closed Christmas Day, New Years Day and Sundays

HODGSON LOOM GALLERY

ISLE GALLERY

Closed Christmas Day, New Years Day Mon/Tues

Council and Island of Culture 2014.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FASHION

S P E C I A L I S T I N F I N E J E W E L L E RY

CHRISTMAS With Clarins

Enjoy shopping with a hot chocolate in our winter wonderland! •Gift vouchers •Clarins products & treatments, •BareMinerals Christmas gifts •Christmas offers •Party packages •Free parking and much more! Come say hello to Katy, Clarins manager with over 10 years experience. Have a Happy Christmas!

Love, Euphoria x

t: (01624) 612429 e: euphoria@manx.net w: www.euphoriabeautique.com

For that unique gift 18CT W/G Fancy Sapphire 6.92 & DIA .50 Ring

CHARLES ALEXANDER LTD • 24 STRAND STREET DOUGLAS • ISLE OF MAN • IM1 2EG

Tel: 01624 621527 • www.charlesalexanderltd.co.uk

OPULENT COUTURE

PHOTOGRAPHER: Julian Simmonds STYLING: Claire Christian, asst by William Holden & Alanna McLean MAKE UP: Kimberley Berridge NAIL ARTIST: The Nail & Beauty Retreat, Barbara Booth HAIR STYLIST: Marco Leonetti & Danielle Ward (Utopia) MODELS: Chloe Magee, Rachel Crook, Will Holden LOCATION: Gaiety Theatre, Douglas

FULL LENGTH NAVY SILK BIAS CUT EVENING GOWN - CLAIRE CHRISTIAN COUTURE £375 FURS & FABRICS - SIGNATURE INTERIOR DESIGN JEWELLERY - CHARLES ALEXANDER

FULL-LENGTH BRONZE SILK JERSEY EVENING GOWN WITH PEARL AND CRYSTAL HAND MADE EMBELLISHED BELT - CLAIRE CHRISTIAN COUTURE £795 LARGE FOX FUR COLLAR - SARAH LENNON £350 BRONZE CLUTCH - £60 SARAH LENNON ROLEX DATEJUST MOTHER OF PEARL DIAL WITH DIAMOND BEZEL - WILKINS JEWELLERS £11,400 7 STRAND DIAMOND BRACELET IN WHITE GOLD - WILKINS JEWELLERS £19,500 DIAMOND WAVE RING WHITE GOLD - WILKINS JEWELLERS £1,095

IVORY SHIFT DRESS WITH HAND MADE PEARL AND CRYSTAL NECK MOTIF - CLAIRE CHRISTIAN COUTURE £345 ZEBRA CLUTCH - SARAH LENNON £95 RED CRYSTALISED SHOES - JIMMY CHOO £450 JEWELLERY - CHARLES ALEXANDER

FLOOR SWEEPING IVORY CORSETED PEPLUM DRESS - CLAIRE CHRISTIAN COUTURE - £595 SILVER SHOES - JIMMY CHOO £450 JEWELLERY - CHARLES ALEXANDER

LONG RED BIAS CUT EVENING GOWN WITH FUR POM POMS - CLAIRE CHRISTIAN COUTURE £425 FULL LENGTH NAVY SILK BIAS CUT EVENING GOWN - CLAIRE CHRISTIAN COUTURE £375 JEWELLERY - CHARLES ALEXANDER

FULL-LENGTH BRONZE SILK JERSEY EVENING GOWN WITH PEARL AND CRYSTAL HAND MADE EMBELLISHED BELT - CLAIRE CHRISTIAN COUTURE £795 JEWELLERY - CHARLES ALEXANDER

BLACK STRETCH JERSEY EVENING GOWN, WITH CRYSTAL EMBELLISHED SHOULDER DETAIL - CLAIRE CHRISTIAN COUTURE £595 JEWELLERY - CHARLES ALEXANDER

GIFTS

GORGEOUS

TAG HEUER

TUDOR HERITAGE

£1,295

£1,940

Ranger Watch

Steel With Black Dial

LINKS OF LONDON

TAG HEUER

Ladies Noble Gold Plated Watch £225

TISSOT LADIES

£3,995

RAYMOND WEIL

Steel T-One Automatic £415

Ladies Carrera Watch With Mother Of Pearl & Full Diamond Bezel

Nabucco Watch, Including Special Edition Headphones £3,995

ALL GIFTS AVAILABLE FROM

WILKINS JEWELLERS

76 Strand Street, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 2EW | Tel: 01624 690450 | www.wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk

GIFTS

GORGEOUS

CRISLU

Princess Cut 1.50ct Cubic Zirconia Earrings £95

AMETHYST & DIAMOND DRESS RING AND DIAMOND PENDANT WITH CHAIN,.

18ct White Gold with 29ct Amethyst, 0.54ct Diamonds Ring £5,495 Pendant & Chain £3,150

MONT BLANC Daniel Defoe Fountain Pen £740

TAG HEUER

Monaco Cufflinks £190

WOLF

Watch Winder In Tan (Other Colours Available)

CRISLU

Silver Princess Cut 1.30ct Cubic Zirconia Pendant £99

£155

ALL GIFTS AVAILABLE FROM

WILKINS JEWELLERS

76 Strand Street, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 2EW | Tel: 01624 690450 | www.wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk

GIFTS

GORGEOUS

FOPE

18ct White Gold Lolite & Diamond Flex-it Solo Braclet

18ct Rose Gold & Diamond EKA Bracelet

18CT WHITE GOLD FLOWER DESIGN PENDANT

TANZANITE & DIAMOND EARRINGS 18ct White Gold Cluster £2,150

£5,425

£3,765

Brilliant Diamond Cut, 1.12ct Diamonds (Matching Earrings & Ring In store) £2,250

TANZANITE & DIAMONDS PENDANT/CHAIN

ROSE GOLD & DIAMOND EARRINGS

£1,450

£1,595

18ct White Gold Cluster

18ct Rose Gold, 0.74ct Diamonds

ALL GIFTS AVAILABLE FROM

WILKINS JEWELLERS

76 Strand Street, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 2EW | Tel: 01624 690450 | www.wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk

GORGEOUS

GIFTS

PANDORA

Sparkling Classic Lace Ring £70

Sparkling Pearl Earrings £95

PANDORA Pave Wishing Star Charm £60

PANDORA

Sparkling Classic Lace Pendant £125

PANDORA

Happy Snowman Charm

Sparkling Present Charm

£45

£60

ALL GIFTS AVAILABLE FROM

WILKINS JEWELLERS

76 Strand Street, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 2EW | Tel: 01624 690450 | www.wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk

FASHION

WORDS & LAYOUT | JORJA HELMOT

5 STYLE TIP

Collar up! Fur doesn’t only have to trim your coat but adds a touch of luxury to an evening dress.

6 14

Sheer + Embellished = Ultimate combo

NO. 21

ROBERTO CAVALLI

STYLE TIP

12 13

LOVE! ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

WOMEN As we enter the party season, sparkle, shimmer and shine with dazzling sequinned and embellished garms. Fur collars and coats are fundamental outerwear, adding opulence to any outfit.

TORY BURCH

1.New Look - £19.99, 2. New Look - £9.99, 3. Asos - £89, 4.Warehouse - £120, 5. Asos - £26, 6. New Look - £29.99, 7. Oasis @ Asos - £30, 8. Warehouse - £6, 9. Marks & Spencer - £45, 10 Asos - £12, 11. Warehouse - £85, 12. Warehouse - £65, 13. Next - £26, 14. Miss Selfridge - £69.30

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FASHION

MEN

It’s party season, so time to get suited and booted in your Sunday best! Brooches, bow ties and pocket chiefs are the way to accessorize, finishing with velvet and suede textures.

Purple hues yell luxury but If that’s not your thing, monochrome is a safe and stylish bet.

1. New Look - £6.99, 2. Ted Baker @ Asos - £299 ( jacket) & £199 (trousers), 3. New Look - £24.99, 4. New Look - £4, 5. Burton - £18, 6. New Look - £59.99, 7. Hymn - £55, 7. Next - £32, 8. Next - £110, 9. Designsix @ Asos - £8, 10. Burton - £4.99, 11. M & S - £19.50, 12.New Look - £6, 13. Asos - £45, 14. Asos - £69

HINT Also in grey.

12 10

2 11

DOLCE & GABBANA

ERMANNO SCERVINO

LOVE! STYLE TIP Stay warm and sophisticated in a doublebreasted coat.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

BEAUTY

Tis ttohbeesepaasmonpered... IF EARTHA KITT’S DEMANDS FOR A 54 CONVERTIBLE (LIGHT BLUE), A YACHT, A DUPLEX, AND DEEDS TO A PLATINUM MINE SOUND REASONABLE TO YOU, CHANCES ARE YOU WOULD BE OVER THE MOON TO RECEIVE ONE OF THESE GLORIOUSLY INDULGENT PRESENTS BENEATH THE TREE THIS CHRISTMAS.

WORDS | Jenny Parkes

IF YOU THINK YOU MIGHT NEED TO DROP SOME HINTS OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS, LEAVE YOUR COPY OF GALLERY LYING AROUND, CASUALLY OPENED AT THIS PAGE…AFTER ALL, YOU’VE BEEN AN ANGEL ALL YEAR – YOU DESERVE IT!

Chanel No.5 (Eau de Parfum spray, 100ml), £85.95

Dior Couture Smoky Eye Palette, £47.00

Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat, £22.50

Marilyn Monroe famously claimed to go to bed wearing nothing but a spritz of this classic scent. This timeless floral fragrance offers up a bouquet of ylang-ylang, may rose and Jasmine, perfect for those who dream of being a silver screen starlet.

Inspired by the fashion house’s resplendent runway shows, combine the four eyeshadows contained in this sleek palette to create two show-stopping smokeyeyed looks – iridescent smokey and matte smokey.

The not-so-secret weapon of the world’s top makeup artists, YSL’s Touche Éclat complexion highlighter pen is renowned for banishing signs of fatigue, dark circles and fine lines and brightening the skin. Available in a range of shades to suit all complexions, this is a beauty essential for anyone’s and everyone’s handbag.

Nails Inc. Capsule Collection, £52.00

Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gio Pour Homme (Eau de Toilette, 100ml), £62.50

Cowshed ‘Neville’ Three Piece Shaving Set, £150.00

This set from the UK’s leading nail brand will be a more than welcome stocking filler, available exclusively from boots.com. Treat yourself and your nails to eight beautiful mini nail polish shades and a full-sized bottle of Kensington Caviar gel effect plumping top coat.

Inspired by the sea, the sun and the earth, Armani’s Acqua di Gio is a classic masculine fragrance. Its signature scent is a distinctively bitter-sweet mix of Calabrian bergamot, neroli, green tangerine, jasmine petal, rock rose, rosemary, fruity persimmon and Indonesian patchouli – there’s plenty packed in there, but the end result is a surprisingly light, aquatic aroma.

Enjoy style as well as substance with this stunning set from Cowshed, which comes with a double stand, 3-blade razor (compatible with Gillette® Mach3® and Mach3® Turbo blades) and pure badger hair shaving brush for high quality wet shaving.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

APPETITE

MAKE A CRACKER Tired of gobbling up turkey at Christmas? Or maybe you favour festive tradition over taste? Whatever you decide to cook, make sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a delicious, hearty feast.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

APPETITE

ONSIDERING WE GENERALLY ONLY EAT TURKEY ONCE A YEAR, THERE’S AN AWFUL LOT OF FUSS MADE ABOUT IT. BUTCHER OR SUPERMARKET, HOW BIG, WHERE TO STORE IT? THE BEASTLY BIRDS ARE SO MASSIVE; THEY TAKE UP HALF THE SPACE IN THE AVERAGE FRIDGE OR FREEZER... AND THEN, FINALLY, COMES HOW TO COOK IT. Delia Smith, Jamie Oliver, Heston Blumenthal, Gordon Ramsay and just about every other TV chef you can think of, have all had a go at coming up with their own twist on the traditional dish. Methods vary from brining it for 24 hours beforehand - that’s submerging it in a bucket of salty water flavoured with things like rosemary, garlic and clementine peel - to rubbing garlic and herb butter under the bird’s skin to make it crisp and golden, while the meat underneath - in theory comes out nice and moist. For all these techniques, though, turkey meat is always much of a muchness. Even a modest-sized bird comes in at about 10lb/4.5kg, with whoppers nearing 17lb on sale for larger families, meaning they need so long in the oven that, unless you concentrate on anything but that, it’ll end up dry as a bone.

the 16th century - Henry VIII was the first monarch to eat it as part of his festive feast - with goose and boar very popular before then. Goose has remained popular, although during Victorian times it was expensive, prompting hard-up fans of the gamey bird to start Goose clubs, like a street urchins’ version of a supermarket reward card. There’s an argument for eating whatever you like on Christmas Day, too. If you’d really be happier with steak and chips, why not have that? Of course, if you’re going to do that, make sure it’s the best steak you can manage, and pull out all the stops with the bearnaise sauce. Similarly, if nothing would please you more than a nice lamb chop, a pasta dish, or an array of roasted veg, go for it. Just don’t skimp on anything - make it a feast. Whatever you choose, remember to think about the size of your kitchen and oven space, ease of cooking and, above all, what you’ll actually enjoy. Tradition is important at Christmas, but tasty grub is essential.

Here’s a recipe for inspiration this year.

CHRISTMAS GOOSE WITH ROOT VEG, STICKY PEARS & BRAMBLE GRAVY (Serves 6-8)

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Remove the goose from the oven and transfer to a large board or platter to rest in a warm-ish place for 30 minutes. Scoop the vegetables out into another roasting tin and keep warm in a low oven. Keep the goose tin to finish making the gravy in. To make the gravy, remove the oranges from the goose using tongs. Pour off all the fat from the roasting tin into a bowl (keep it for your roasties!). Scatter the sugar into the tin and stir to scrape off any tasty brown bits. Splash in the vinegar, simmer down until practically dry, then stir in the jelly to dissolve, bubble and cook down. Finally, add the stock and squeeze in the juice from the oranges. Bring everything to the boil, then strain into a jug or small saucepan to reheat later. Peel and halve the pears. Use a teaspoon to scoop out the cores, then cut the pears into quarters. In a bowl, toss the pears in the icing sugar until completely coated. Heat a large frying pan over a high flame and add the pears to the pan. Cook for one minute or so, tossing constantly, until the pears are really well caramelised and slightly burnt around the edges. Serve the goose on a platter surrounded by watercress and pear wedges. Serve the slow-roasted vegetables in a separate bowl and the gravy in a gravy boat.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

RECIPE - BBC GOOD FOOD MAGAZINE.

APPETITE

Decaden∆

OPULENCE COCKTAIL

ars are paying more attention to ice with unique flavours, sizes and shapes these days. A growing number of establishments now have full-fledged ice programs that produce cocktails that are more attractive, better tasting and worthier of a premium tab.

The quality of ice that bars serve has become just as important as the quality of their spirits, juices or mixers, and has a bearing on the presentation of finished drinks equal to the choice of glassware. Bartenders at the Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago follow that sentiment. Their house-made flavoured ice cubes add distinction to the Opulence 5, priced at $55/£35. A signature cocktail guests enjoy at The Terrace at Trump, a rooftop restaurant and bar. The cubes, frozen in moulds in the hotel’s pastry kitchen blast freezer, showcase their unusual flavours, colours and garnishes. In the glass is a pair of two-inch by two-inch cubes, one frozen with rose petals and one with raspberry stock, nestled with three one-inch by one-inch cubes with blackberry, cinnamon-apple and pineapple flavours, respectively. The first sip of the Opulence 5 is similar to a Champagne cocktail, but as the cubes gradually melt, the flavour becomes more like a traditional punch. By the time you are done with it, it really is a different drink.

Opulence 5 recipe Ingredients:

4-6 OZ PERRIER JOUET 4 OZ TITO’S VODKA 1 OZ ST. GERMAINE 1 OZ SIMPLE SYRUP 1 ½ LEMON JUICE 5 FLAVOURED ICE CUBES (RASPBERRY, BLACKBERRY, ROSE PETAL, CINNAMON APPLE, & PINEAPPLE) Directions: SHAKE INGREDIENTS TOGETHER, RESERVING THE PERRIER. POUR SHAKEN LIQUID OVER THE FLAVOURED ICE CUBES IN AN OVERSIZED RED WINE GLASS AND TOP-OFF WITH THE PERRIER JOUET.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Set in the outskirts of Port St Mary, The Railway Station Hotel is a hidden gem. Recently refurbished to a high standard, combining traditional and contemporary styles. The New 44 seater restaurant is elegant yet comfortable. The central wood-burning stove provides character and warmth during the chilly winter months. Our Chef Marcus Sutton has a Stunning New Menu, which offers Traditional Favourites along with his Speciality dishes, which include, Asian Noodles, amazing Sushi Platters (available at the weekends to pre order) Sliders and Fish Dishes, with

locally sourced fish and seafood supplied by The Fish House. We also have a range of Quality Steaks from a 10 oz. Rib eye to a whopping 16 oz. Porterhouse and not forgetting our succulent 8 oz. Fillet. All supplied by Harrison & Garrett.

Bookings are now being taken for Christmas Parties, with our Christmas Menu running from 1st Dec throughout December for Lunch and Dinner (Excluding Christmas Day).

COME AND CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR WITH OUR 5 COURSE CELEBRATION DINNER CELEBRATION MENU Champagne Reception * * * To start Trio of Manx Scallops on Cauliflower Veloute, with Pancetta Crisp & Grated Parmesan Cheese Lobster Bisque with Laphroaig Whisky Cream and Toasted Brioche Goats Cheese & Caramelised Red Onion Tart with Crisp Leaf Salad & Balsamic Dressing

To follow Roast Ribeye of Beef with a Celeriac Duchess Potato, Yorkshire pudding and Port Jus Pan Fried Breast of Gressingham Duck with Potato Dauphinoise & Winter Berry & Orange Sauce Manx Game Pie enclosed in Short crust Pastry with Rosemary Roasted Potato & a Rich Barley Gravy All served with Minted New Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables Hot Smoked Salmon & Queenie Risotto with Samphire & Parmesan Crisp Mediterranean Vegetable Tagine with a Roast Pepper Cous Cous & finished with Greek Yoghurt

To finish Hot Chocolate Fondant with a Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Mango & Passion Fruit Meringue with Chantilly Cream Wild Berry Cheesecake & Vanilla Ice Cream Baileys Bread & Butter pudding with Vanilla & Raspberry Custard. * * * Selection of Cheeses Served with a Glass of Ruby Port * * * Coffee & Homemade Truffles

5 Course Celebration Dinner £47.50 • Brown Sugar Playing from 21.30 till 2015 in Freddy’s Bar

The Railway Station Hotel - Station Road - Port St Mary - IM9 5LF

01624 832494 - E mail stationpsm@manx.net - www.therailwaystationhotel.com

APPETITE

GIVE LEFTOVERS NEW LIFE IF YOU’VE BEEN TOILING OVER A HOT STOVE FOR HOURS, THE LAST THING YOU WANT TO SEE IS A LOAD OF CHRISTMAS LEFTOVERS BEING SHOVELLED INTO THE BIN - SO TURN THEM INTO TASTY NEW DISHES INSTEAD. Christmas dinner is done and dusted. The washing-up’s even been dried and put away, emergency chairs are back in the garage, and that big plate you only use once a year has been returned to its rightful home in the cupboard above the oven. So what now? There’s a plate of assorted cooked veg under cling film in the fridge, a turkey carcass with a good amount of meat on it, and quarter of a Christmas pudding you spent ages making. Well, the most important thing is not to let it all go to waste. But secondly don’t just reheat everything in the microwave and have a makeshift second Christmas dinner - that’s boring and it will never taste as good. What you need are some leftover recipes.

If you have a surplus of sprouts, why not try using them to make champ? It’s a traditional Irish dish, usually made by adding spring onions to mashed potato. Instead of, or as well as, the spring onions, use the sprouts too, sliced in half and maybe gently sautéed in a little butter before stirring into the mash. Be sure to make the mash very buttery, with plenty of seasoning, some warm milk and a little grating of nutmeg to finish. There are several other easy ideas - stirring crumbled Christmas pudding through slightly melted vanilla ice cream (in the manner of raspberry ripple) and refreezing makes a festive dessert, or you could make a simple bechamel sauce (in a saucepan, cook equal parts flour and butter, then loosen with enough milk to make a sauce), add cheese, leftover ham/turkey/whatever

you have, and eat over a jacket potato or stirred through some pasta.

BEFORE YOU TIRE OF THE SIGHT OF CHRISTMAS FOOD, HAVE A LOOK AT THESE RECIPES AND SEE IF THERE’S ANYTHING THAT TAKES YOUR FESTIVE FANCY. TURKEY & POTATO CURRY (Serves 4) 1tbsp sunflower oil 1 large onion, thickly sliced 1 green pepper, deseeded and chopped 2tbsp curry paste (or gluten-free alternative) 2 garlic cloves, crushed 400g can chopped tomatoes 300g leftover turkey, diced 300g leftover cooked potatoes (either boiled or roasted), diced 2tbsp mango chutney Small pack coriander, roughly chopped Rice or naan bread, to serve

Heat the oil in a large pan over a fairly high heat. Cook the onion and pepper for three to four minutes until starting to soften and brown slightly. Stir in the curry paste and garlic, then cook for another one to two minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes and 150ml water. Bring to the boil and bubble for five minutes. Turn the heat down, stir in the turkey and potatoes, and cook for another two to three minutes, then season and add the mango chutney. Scatter with coriander and serve with rice or naan.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

APPETITE

MINI TURKEY & CRANBERRY PIES (Makes 8) 500g pack shortcrust pastry Plain flour, for dusting 250g shredded leftover turkey 8tbsp double cream or crème fraiche 8tsp cranberry sauce 1 egg, beaten

Roll out the pastry on a floured surface so that it’s just thinner than a £1 coin. Cut out eight 10cm circles using a pastry cutter or small saucer, then cut eight 9cm circles for the lids - you will need to re-roll the trimmings. Push the larger circles into eight holes of a muffin tin, then divide the turkey, cream and cranberry sauce between them. Season well and brush the edges with a little egg. Place a lid on top of each and pinch the sides together to seal. Chill the tray for 15 to 20 minutes. This firms up the pastry, making for a crisper exterior. Heat the oven to 200C. Brush the tops with more egg, then bake for 25 mins until the pastry is crisp and golden. Serve warm, or leave to cool and enjoy cold.

CHRISTMAS PUDDING STRUDEL (Serves 6) 250g Christmas pudding, crumbled 250g tub mascarpone 2tbsp Baileys 4 sheets filo pastry 25g melted butter Icing sugar, for dusting Cream or custard, to serve

Heat the oven to 200C. Mix the pudding, mascarpone and Baileys. Lay out a sheet of filo on a large flat baking tray, brush with some melted butter and lay another sheet on top. Repeat with more butter and filo until you have four layers. Place the filling in a log in the centre and brush the border with butter. Roll up to enclose the filling then brush with the remaining butter. Can be chilled for one day until ready to bake. When ready to cook, bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown, dust with icing sugar and serve warm with cream or custard.

RECIPES - BBC GOOD FOOD MAGAZINE.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

APPETITE

WORDS | Anne Berry | The Wine Cellar

Subtlety or Opulence? WHICH ARE BETTER? OLD WORLD OR NEW WORLD WINES? SUBTLETY OR OPULENCE!

n the Old World i.e. Europe and the Middle East, wine has been produced for hundreds of years, with many grape varieties having been introduced by the Romans.

Over the years, grape varieties have adapted to particular microclimates and soil types and, as a consequence, it is more important to a winemaker that their wines show the characteristics of the area rather than of the grape variety. Wines have also traditionally been produced to drink as a complementary accompaniment to regional cuisine. Flavours are generally subtle and restrained. Pouilly Fume Fusil de Chasse on offer at 6 bottles for £60 in The Wine Cellar. Produced from grapes grown in the limestone soil of the Central Vineyards in the Loire Valley, this is a fine example of cool climate Sauvignon Blanc, with it fruity flavours balanced by a crisp acidity and a flinty minerally finish. Enjoy it with goats cheese or tomato tart. In the New World, i.e. South America, Australia, New Zealand, California and South Africa, wine-making is relatively new. Initially there was very little science involved when planting vineyards. If someone owned a plot of land and fancied making a Chardonnay, they would plant Chardonnay vines and see how the wine tasted, regardless of the soil type, microclimate or aspect of the vineyard.

Back then, and this is only 40 years ago, winemakers were not looking for subtlety or complexity in a wine. The aim was for the wine to taste of fruit, the more the better. Compare this New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc – Taringi – with the Pouilly Fume above. Taringi is produced by Villa Maria and is a classic New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Intensely fruity aromas of citrus, gooseberry and passion fruit which follow on to the palate. On offer at 6 for £48. For several years, these up front simple wines suited the British palate and the market expanded rapidly, especially from Australia and Chile. Well priced, good value, fruit driven wines with bold flavours became top sellers and offered something different. The Old World producers fought back, trying to produce wines with more fruit. The advantage they had was that the soil/ varietal relationship was proven. Growing vines in soil that was known to be well suited to them and making the wine in a more fruit forward style meant that the wines had not only plenty of fruit but also local character, which was sometimes lacking in the less expensive New World wines. It is now the turn of the New World to fight back. The more innovative producers have recognised the effect of environmental factors on a wine and have begun planting certain vines in areas with a specific soil type in order to produce a more characterful wine. One such example is Gimblett Gravels in New Zealand’s Hawkes

Bay, which has a stony soil and has proved itself to be ideal for making Bordeaux style blends. The Esk Valley Merlot/Cabernet/ Malbec (£15.65) is rich, full bodied, densely coloured and exhibits a bouquet of plums, red fruits, dried herbs with hints of spicy oak. It has a long mineral finish, as a result of the gravelly soil in which the vines are grown. Compare this with a claret, e.g. Chateau Potensac 1997 from the Medoc. This comes from a similar gravelly soil, but has already been in bottle for over 15 years. The fruit flavours have faded and the complexity of oak and well integrated tannins are showing through, giving a beautifully mellow wine. At just £25.00 a bottle, this is an incredible wine, just perfect if you are looking for a traditional Bordeaux with roast turkey. The choice is yours! The difference between Old and New World wines is now significantly smaller due to advances in wine-making technology, experience and knowledge. But the answer to the question has to be that it is about personal taste and choice. This is just a taste of the fabulous offers in The Wine Cellar this Christmas. Don’t miss out – available only while stock lasts! For a full list, call in to our store on Tennis Road and pick up a leaflet, or visit our website at www.thewinecellar.im

THE WINE CELLAR • TENNIS ROAD • DOUGLAS • IM2 3QW TELEPHONE: 01624 611793 • EMAIL: anne@thewinecellar.im

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

TRAVEL

RECOGNISED AS THE TOP PLACE TO SHOP IN THE UK OUTSIDE OF LONDON’S WEST END

Fly direct to

GLASGOW for the lowest possible price with Citywing

nown for its culture, style and the friendliness of its people, and with an exciting year round programme of events and festivals, Scotland’s largest city is a fantastic place to be at any time of year. Visit Glasgow with Citywing and see just why so many leading newspapers, travel publications and websites have named the city as a must-visit destination for 2014!

There is something for everyone in Glasgow, whether you are looking to discover its history or explore the shops and restaurants of this stylish city. With over 20 museums and art galleries to pay a visit to, including the Riverside Museum and the internationally renowned Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, culture vultures will be spoilt for choice! Glasgow is also famed for its impressive architecture – the city centre boasts countless Victorian structures and unique masterpieces of celebrated Glaswegian architect and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Add to this, the region’s stunning scenery, lochs and heritage sites, and you will find it easy to lose yourself in the spectacular heritage of Glasgow and The Clyde Valley. Take a trip back in time to medieval Scotand at Bothwell Castle, the country’s

largest 13th century stone castle, or plan a fun family day out at the nearby Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park where you can get back to nature and enjoy the plentiful wildlife. Recognised as the top place to shop in the UK outside of London’s West End, Glasgow’s Style Mile is located in the square in the very centre of the city, and is home to an extraordinary number of big brands, independent boutiques and designer stores. Sample the delights of numerous restaurants, offering everything from Michelin star finery to delicious budget menus – why not stop off for afternoon tea at the Willow Tea Rooms, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh himself?

so you can be in Scotland in less than one hour. Its new offer means that if you find any flight to or from the Isle of Man to Scotland at a lower cost than that advertised by Citywing, the company will offer you a flight to or from Glasgow on the day for less than the one found; all that customers need to do is show Citywing whereabouts online they have found a competing price. With nine weekly return flights to Glasgow each week, there’s nothing to stop you from discovering all that the city has to offer and more, with the city providing an ideal gateway to Edinburgh the rest of the country. For more information go to www.citywing.com and, for more information about what to do and see in Glasgow, visit: http://peoplemakeglasgow.com

Citywing offers the quickest – as well as the cheapest – route to Scotland, flying direct to Glasgow from the Isle of Man ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

DOUBLE DAILY WEEKDAY FLIGHTS

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From the Isle of Man to Glasgow at the lowest fares. Citywing will beat any airline on price from the Isle of Man to / from Glasgow

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Visit www.citywing.com for details

TRAVEL

FLY DIRECT HOLIDAYS 2015

‘This was probably the easiest holiday we have ever taken door to door without any hassle’ ‘Will definitely use you again. Not really sure what could improve this service’ Mrs F – Douglas

‘So much easier being able to travel abroad direct from Island’

‘Great holiday, let us know what direct holidays you have for next summer’

Mrs S – Braddan

Mr & Mrs D – Douglas

‘You can’t get much better’

‘Excellent service across the board’ Mr C – Peel

Mr P – Onchan

HOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED FLYING DIRECT FROM THE ISLE OF MAN TO YOUR HOLIDAY DESTINATION WILL SEE THE APPEAL, THOSE WHO HAVEN’T - YOU NEED TO. NO MORE COSTLY AND LENGTHY OVERNIGHT STAYS IN THE UK BEFORE BOARDING A SECOND FLIGHT, NO MORE STRESS: WITH A DIRECT FLIGHT, YOU CUT OUT FLYING INTO THE UK AND WAITING AROUND OR STAYING OVERNIGHT. AFTER ALL, WE ARE GOING ON HOLIDAY, WHY NOT SECURE THAT HOLIDAY FEELING FROM THE MINUTE YOU DEPART RONALDSWAY?

As soon as you step onboard the aircraft at Ronaldsway Airport, you travel non-stop to your destination. Not only that, the flights are daytime flights, departing at 1.35pm and returning at 755pm. No more flights from a UK airport in the middle of night. You won’t be getting on a cattle flight either, pushing and shoving with hundreds of other passengers, rushing to get the best seats on a huge 747. Direct flights to holiday destinations from the Isle of Man are onboard a British Airways Embraer Jet 76 seater. Which is more like a private jet in comparison.

Puerto Pollensa

Arenal d’en Castell

Playa de Muro

Deya Valldemossa

Cala’n Forcat Ciutadella Sa Caleta

Cala Santandria

Cala Blanca

MENORCA

Cala Galdana

Calan’n Bosch/ Son Xoriguer

Son Bou

Palmo Nova

S’Algar

Punta Prima

TWO WORDS SUM UP MENORCA BETTER THAN ANY OTHERS – ‘CALM’ AND ‘CHARMING’. The second largest and most north eastern of the Balearic Islands, Menorca differs from the other islands in both climate and landscape. Menorca is an island of contrasts and colours, boasting miles of rugged coastline leading to more than one hundred beaches and secluded sandy bays, beautiful crescent coves, rugged cliffs, pine trees, archaeological sites and two main towns overlooking beautiful and natural harbours, all of which combine to offer an interesting and relaxing holiday destination. You will also discover excellent watersports, great food and charming attractions. Take time to explore Ciudadela, the original capital, which retains an aura of grandeur and aristocracy and has a picturesque port. Also Mahon the capital overlooks a magnificent harbour and is a hive of activity, both on land and sea. Take a boat trip or visit one of the many boutiques and craft shops on the quayside. Restaurants and bars provide a lively atmosphere. It’s a tranquil unspoilt island where the peace of life is leisurely and visitors come for peace and quiet, the pull of the Mediterranean, wonderful scenery and a welcoming family atmosphere.

Cala Bona Cala Millor

Alaro

Illetas

Mahon

Santo Tomas

Formentor

Alcudia

MAJORCA

Cala Fornells

Cala Mayor

Santa Ponsa

Sa Coma

Plama

Magaluf

Porto Cristo Calas de Mallorca Cala d’Or/Cala Egos

LIVELY AND FUN-PACKED HOLIDAYS ARE WHAT MAJORCA IS ALL ABOUT, WITH BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, GREAT WEATHER AND GETAWAYS TO SUIT ALL TASTES. The largest of the Balearic Islands, Majorca lies off the south east coast of Spain. You can soak up the Mediterranean sun on one of the many sandy beaches, take a dip in the picture-perfect blue seas, sample some true Spanish tradition or party the night away at one of the world-famous clubs in Magaluf. The capital, Palma, is a haven for tourists with its restaurants, bars and shopping, but you can also head inland to visit the charming, traditional towns and experience Majorca’s unique culture. Outside the capital and other towns, there are quaint villages still supported by the agricultural industry more than tourism - this is where the olives, lemons, oranges and almonds which feature so heavily on Majorcan menus are grown - and a visit to the country is the perfect antidote to the bustling towns. Hiring a car or hopping on a bicycle will open up all the delights of this wonderful island, letting you visit the traditional fishing villages, remote monasteries, stunning natural beauty and much more at your own pace. ISLE OF MAN STYLE MAGAZINE

SToP 2015 Malta and Gozo direct holidays brochure out now! PRESS

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TRAVEL

T SKI ESCAPES

PS MOST OPULEN

A GUIDE TO THE AL

CONSENSIO: THE FRENCH ALPS

THE MOST LUXURIOUS CATERED SKI CHALETS IN THE FRENCH ALPS

VAL D’ISERE: SUITE DREAMS

COURCHEVEL 1850: VANTAGE POINT

With its opulent appeal, it comes as no surprise that Marco Polo was awarded with the title of Best Chalet in France in 2013.

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ISLE OF JERSEY’S MAN PREMIER STYLE MAGAZINE

TRAVEL

LES GETS: A TOUCH OF GLASS

CONSENSIO CHILDREN: A WINTER WONDERLAND

The mountains are a magical place for both adolescents and adults. From English speaking nannies to on-tap chefs, if your children are happy, then so are you. On arrival, younger guests will be met by Charlie Bear (a unique cuddly toy, theirs to keep), as well as their very own personalised kid’s challenge card. From designing their own pizza with the in-chalet chef, to creating the craziest snow dance, and building the best snowman, they’ll be faced with a series of challenges throughout the week. Spellbinding experiences include an expedition to your own private igloo as well as husky sledding, whilst family birthdays are welcomed in true style with the addition of a magician and fireworks. For more information, contact enquiries@consensioholidays.co.uk or call +44 (0) 203 393 0833 to book your next ski holiday.

SKI ARMADILLO: VERBIER ‘Style and Verbier go together like Roger Federer and designer sweat bands’ and this picturesque village certainly boasts a serious ski obsession. Celebrated as a world-class resort, the area claims some of the most impressive skiing in Europe, a fantastic choice of luxury accommodation, panoramic views and a stylish après-ski scene to match. Throughout the winter months, Verbier becomes a multi-hued Mecca of indulgence and fun! From celeb spotting to rainbow-clad seasonnaires, there’s something to suit all. You can even shake up a cocktail or two in the comfort of your own chalet, allowing you to create your very own private party in the Alps. It’s here you’ll stumble upon the legendary backcountry powder, as well as over 412km of expertly groomed pistes in the 4 Vallees region. If its luxury you’re searching for, you’ve certainly come to the right place, from retail therapy to fine cuisine and an abundance of champagne opportunities, Verbier’s reputation precedes itself. No wonder the resort poses as a playground to A-lister’s such as Prince Harry and Richard Branson!

MARAIS ROUGE: A ROOM WITH A VIEW

Positioned close to a mountain stream in the heart of the village, Marais Rouge boasts some of the best views in town. Finished to the highest of standards, this top alpine chalet is home to all of the mod cons you would expect from such a luxury establishment, comprising a cinema room, a sauna and a hot tub! Just a stones throw away from the Medran lift station, the fine dining, the shops and the nightlife, Marais Rouge boasts an ideal location. However, if you prefer to spend the evening in the comfort of your own accommodation, the in-chalet chef, trained in some of London’s top eateries, is guaranteed to cook you up a storm! The icing on the cake – Marais Rouge is one of Ski Armadillo’s Champagne Chalets. Guests will be treated to champagne and canapés six nights of the week, alongside homemade petit fours and a dedicated driver service. Extras such as childcare, massages or restaurant reservation can all be arranged with the on-tap concierge service. Sleeps 12

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

TRAVEL

ROCKSTEADY: LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU

Completed to the highest of standards, this eco-friendly chalet boasts panoramic views across the valley (many of which can be enjoyed from the outdoor hot tub), a vast entertainment area, huge bedrooms, uniquely designed bathrooms and a contemporary style. With over three floors of accommodation to choose from, comprising two sitting rooms and a cinema room, there’s plenty of space for friends and family. Included with the accommodation is your very own chef – there to provide a gourmet four-course dinner, champagne and canapés six nights of the week, homemade petit fours, breakfast and afternoon tea. You’ll find a dedicated driver service and an on-tap concierge for whatever else you may need. Sleeps 10 + 2

BASALTE TROIS ROC: AN ARCHITECTURAL DELIGHT

Contemporary touches have been combined with the magic of a luxurious alpine chalet. If it’s an exceptional chalet experience you’re after, you’ve certainly come to the right resort. From the local stone bathrooms to the exposed wooden beams, Basalte Trois Roc boasts an extravagant feel – the epitome of luxury living. The chalet sleeps eight guests across four fabulous bedrooms and boasts a picturesque living area with views of the

mountains and beyond. Designed by the architect of the Trois Roc development, the attention to detail is astounding. Positioned just a few steps from the main ski lift, this is the perfect option for those looking for a base close to all of the action. Guests are also granted the use of the hotel’s spa and facilities. From morning tea in bed to a four-course gourmet meal and your very own driver service, this Champagne Chalet offers a definite decadent appeal.

Freedom Travel offer flight-inclusive holidays incorporating remarkable Ski Chalets. A key benefit to customers is that they are able to offer enhanced ground arrangements including VIP meet and greet services, private luxury transfers and excursions. Ask Freedom Travel for detail T: 01624 696500 E: travel@freedomtravel-iom.com

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Isle of Man | Home & Interiors | December 2014

The best place to find a new place in the Isle of Man

HOME

FEATURE PROPERTY

ennaa set in 90 acres may be described as one of the most outstanding modern houses on the Island enjoying a private, sheltered, woodland setting in the valley of the River Neb.

The house enjoys a fine outlook to surrounding wooded hills and the elegant spire of St Johns Church. Douglas, Peel, Ronaldsway Airport and schools are all close by, together with good sporting amenities of golf, sailing and tennis. Kennaa, was designed by a leading Manx architect, Nick Cook, and has been built to a high standard. The house is rendered and painted white under a pitched roof. The current family accommodation has been much enhanced over recent years to fulfil the needs of a growing family.

www.blackgracecowley.com

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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The sale of Kennaa offers a superb opportunity to purchase an outstanding modern house in a spectacular position, benefitting from good buildings and extensive well drained grassland paddocks.

The accommodation comprises: • 4 reception rooms, kitchen, breakfast room, 6 bedrooms, 3 en- suite bathrooms and family bathroom • Outstanding swimming pool complex with Sauna, Spa and Bar area • 2 double garages, lawned gardens • Three attractive 2 bedroom Chalets, detached lakeside 2 bed Lodge, three 1 bedroom stone faced cottages • Superb range of modern buildings comprising: 53 loose boxes, indoor arena 20m x 40m surfaced with Martin Collins waxed Ecotrack surface. Floodlit outdoor arena 60m x 40m surfaced with Martin Collins Clopf/sand surface with adjacent warm up Arena • Monarch covered 5 horse walker • Staff flat and office, general purpose barns, office block and film studio • Post and electric rail grassland paddocks and woodland • In all approximutly 90 acres (36.42 hectares) • Further income can be derived from an existing livery facility, successful Riding Club and Film Studio

51 Victoria Street, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 2LD

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

01624 645555

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FEATURED PROPERTY

BARRULE PARK, RAMSEY

£675,000

Superb carriageway driveway -

A rare chance to acquire a very spacious detached bungalow comprising in excess of 2,900 square feet of accommodation. The property is situated on a double plot offering fantastic family accommodation situated on a select estate of similar properties on the outskirts of Ramsey. The bungalow comprises of two reception rooms, a breakfast kitchen and utility, a master bedroom suite and five further bedrooms. Offered for sale in excellent order throughout, this property has been very well maintained by th current owner, with the benefit of oil fired central heating, double glazing and large, but easily maintained gardens with a superb carriageway driveway, offering parking for several cars. There is also an integral double garage and a detached office complex.

HARMONEY HOMES PORT ERIN T: 01624 818222 WWW.HARMONEYHOMES.CO.IM

UPPER BALLASTROOAN, COLBY £699,000 Rural and sea views -

‘Harmony View’ is a spacious detached house which enjoys distant rural and sea views, situated in a pleasant semi-rural location. This property comprises of a lounge, dining room, conservatory, a large kitchen along with a utility room and sunroom. There are four bedrooms (one with an en-suite bathroom) with built-in wardrobes, a double garage and a large timber shed. Outside there is a good sized pavioured driveway with parking for several vehicles. The gardens are mainly laid to lawn, beautifully landscaped and easily maintained. An internal inspection is highly recommended to appreciate this lovely property. HARMONEY HOMES PORT ERIN T: 01624 835252 WWW.HARMONEYHOMES.CO.IM

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Free Calls! Get free calls to all Sure mobiles, and to local, UK and Ireland landlines, with NEW Sure Home Phone.

No monthly rental, and international calls from only 6p per minute. For more information, call into a Sure store in Douglas, Ramsey or Port Erin, or visit www.sure.com.

Terms and Conditions apply. See website for details.

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FEATURED PROPERTY

THE HENLEY, BALLANARD WOODS, DOUGLAS

£4,000,000

Set within private landscaped grounds within the award winning Ballanard Woods development, just 1.2 miles from the centre of Douglas, this 6-bedroom classically proportioned Georgian style mansion house provides 9,233 sq.ft. of luxury accommodation over 2 storeys. Accessed via a private entrance and drive with electrically operated gates, The Henley offers security and privacy. Featuring both formal and informal living areas, this superior residence fuses award GROUND FLOOR • Double-height entrance hall with solid oak stair case • Split level formal lounge • Formal dining room • German designed kitchen/breakfast with stone worktops and integral Miele and Gaggenau appliances • Utility room & wine cellar • Family room • TV lounge/den • Study/office

winning design and build quality with truly exceptional levels of interior specification.

FIRST FLOOR • Master suite with en suite & dressing room • Guest suite with en suite & dressing room • Bedroom 3 with en suite • Bedroom 4 with en suite • Bedroom 5 with en suite • Bedroom 6/Guest/staff apartment

EAST WING & GARAGE • Layout options include: granny flat, gym, cinema, office, or games room • 4 Car Garage & Garden store

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT: Heritage Homes Premier, Douglas Tel: 01624 615000 www.dandara.com

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

CREATE YOUR WORLD

HANDCRAFTED EXCELLENCE

Hand-crafted bespoke Kitchens • Bedrooms • Panelling • Libraries From concept through to completion, we are with you all the way to help create your custom-built home you call your own.

Glen Road, Laxey, Isle of Man IM4 7AR Telephone: +44 1624 861094 Email: enquiries@paulbloom.im Website: www.paulbloom.im

Isle of Man Business Park, Cooil Road, Douglas

Call today on: 01624 625229 philipcharles.im

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FEATURED PROPERTY

GLEN WYLLIN VILLAGE, KIRK MICHAEL Spacious detached bungalow -

£185,000 1

A rare opportunity to acquire an historic two bedroom cottage in the tiny Glen Wyllin village, which is situated in the 7.3 hectare Manx Wildlife Trust’s Cooildarry Nature Reserve. The cottage has immediate access to one of the Island’s most beautiful and peaceful glens and is a short walk to the beach and dramatic coastline of Kirk Michael and the West. The village is situated in a deep wooded valley forming the upper part of Glen Wyllin through which the Ballalona river runs in a series of waterfalls over an ancient bed of Manx slate and the present woodland has many beautiful native and exotic trees and plants. Wyllin Cott would make an idyllic retreat or cosy home in a rare setting off the beaten track, yet close to the amenities of Kirk Michael and Peel.

Photo reference: Wyllin Cottage in the tiny village of Glen Wyllin 1895.

HARMONEY HOMES RAMSEY T: 616200 www.harmoneyhomes.co.im

PALATINE ROAD, DOUGLAS

£319,950

Traditional family townhouse with a garden -

Mid terraced 1900’s townhouse in an excellent condition throughout, which has been renovated, retaining its original features. The property comprises of a sitting room, dining room and breakfast kitchen, master bedroom with en-suite shower room, 3 further bedrooms and a family bathroom. There is also a utility room, a rear lawned garden and a rear yard, along with a single garage and large storage shed. A great opportunity to buy a traditional family townhouse with a garden.

HARMONEY HOMES DOUGLAS T: 616200 www.harmoneyhomes.co.im

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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• 4 Park Close, Glen Vine • 4 Tromode Heights, Douglas • 34 St Catherine’s Drive, Douglas • 47/88 Spectrum Apartments, Douglas

• Local properties at your fingertips www.blackgracecowley.com

4 Park Close, Glen Vine

£475,000

• Spacious Detached family home • Large plot with front and rear gardens • 5 Bedrooms, 3 Receptions, 21ft family Breakfast Kitchen and 2 Bathrooms • Large driveway and double integral garage • Viewing highly recommended

34 St Catherine’s Drive, Douglas

£253,000

4 Tromode Heights, Douglas

£525,000

• Spacious executive style detached property in quiet cul-de-sac location • Hall, W.C., Lounge, Dining Room, Conservatory, Study, Breakfast Kitchen and Utility • 4 Bedrooms, 2 En-Suites and Family Bathroom • 3/4 car driveway, good-sized private garden to the rear • Large Garage, Oil fired central heating and double glazing

47/88 Spectrum Apartments

£99,950

• Attractive traditional Semi Detached house

• Superb 2nd floor purpose built studio apartment

• 3 Bedroom, 2 Reception Rooms, 18ft Breakfast Kitchen

• Finished to a very high specification throughout

• Conveniently located opposite Ballakermeen School

• Studio Living Area with fitted Kitchen and Bathroom

• Off street car parking, front and rear gardens

• Ideal investment opportunity

51 Victoria Street, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 2LD

• BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

01624 645555

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NEWS

PROPERTY NEWS ‘5 STARS’ FOR HERITAGE HOMES AT UK PROPERTY AWARDS

TO BUY OR TO RENT? Tim Groves, Residential Director, Black Grace Cowley

BEFORE CONTEMPLATING WHETHER TO BUY OR RENT, IT IS VITAL TO DO AS MUCH RESEARCH AS POSSIBLE AND TO CONSIDER WHETHER THE LONG-TERM FINANCIAL COMMITMENT OF HOME-OWNERSHIP IS FOR YOU. THERE ARE A NUMBER OF ELEMENTS TO BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT. SO, HERE ARE A FEW POINTERS TO GET YOU STARTED. CONSIDER YOUR BUDGET Start by speaking to your bank or an independent adviser who will be able to talk you through the process and determine what you can afford. There are many types of mortgage deal, so it’s important that you choose one that suits you. HERITAGE HOMES, PART OF THE DANDARA GROUP OF COMPANIES, IS CELEBRATING AFTER PICKING UP A TOP ‘FIVE-STAR’ ACCOLADE AT THE RECENT UK PROPERTY AWARDS. THE COMPANY WON BEST PROPERTY SINGLE UNIT ISLE OF MAN FOR ‘THE SILVERDALE’, A FIVE BEDROOM HOUSE TYPE AT REAYRT NY GLIONNEY IN LONAN. Heritage Homes was also presented with two ‘Highly Commended’ awards, the first for Ballakilley, Port Erin, in the Isle of Man Residential Development category and the second for ‘The Devonshire’ at Ballanard Woods, Douglas, in the Isle of Man Single Unit class. The UK Property Awards recognises the achievements of companies across the property industry and attracts entries from hundreds of companies, including developers, architects, interior designers and property agents. Heritage Homes’ managing director Seamus Nugent said “The awards are judged by a panel of leading industry experts so it’s an honour to be recognised by our peers. I’m delighted we’ve secured a best-in-class for The Silverdale, but also that we’ve been able to build on last year’s success at Ballanard Woods.” In 2013, the Ballanard Woods development picked up two awards in the North West region, achieving Five-Star status in the Architecture Multiple Residence class, along with Highly Commended in the Architecture Single Residence class for ‘The Henley’.

DO YOUR RESEARCH Visit your preferred areas at different times of the day and week. We can help you make sense of the local market and check out the local buy and sell stats. You can set up alerts for your areas and set search criteria via our website for as soon as a new property matching your requirements pops up. All this information is free, and we’d be pleased to share it with you. KNOW WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR If you have a good idea of what you’re looking for from the start you can save time on redundant viewings. The more specific you can be, the easier you will make it for us to help you. Finding the right property often involves compromise at some point, however; so as you arrange your viewings, be prepared to be flexible. MAKE AN OFFER If you have done your research, you should have a good idea of market activity in the area. Use all of this information to determine what the fair value for a property is before you make an offer. ONGOING COMMUNICATION If your offer is accepted, it’s vital to keep those important lines of communication open. We will keep in regular contact with you, and ensure that both sets of advocates handling the sale keep you regularly informed on progress.

Jacqui Cretney, Ciaran Downey and Angela Beresford (pictured left to right) represented Heritage Homes at a gala award ceremony at the London Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel on Friday October 24th.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

stunning homes

READY TO MOVE IN LO

THE OAK

A 5 bed detached home with sunroom and double garage. Light fittings, carpets, wallpaper, soft furnishings, fire surround and landscaped gardens are included.

THE SILVERDALE

A 6 bed detached home with sunroom and double garage. Fully carpeted and light fittings included. There is also a separate utility room and study.

N A N LO

THE LAUREL

MAINE COURT

£451,950

£424,500

The last 4 bed detached home with study and single garage remaining at Reayrt ny Glionney.

P ER OR IN T

£569,950

LE A XD FO

£454,950 A

P ER OR IN T

£544,950

THE OAK

A 4 bed detached home with garage. Light fittings, carpets, wallpaper, soft furnishings, fire surround and landscaping.

THE SILVERDALE

The last 5 bed detached home with sunroom and double garage remaining at Reayrt ny Cronk.

£584,950

A 4 bed town house. Light fittings, carpets, wallpaper and soft furnishings are included.

To find out more please contact our Sales Team:

01624 615000 iomsales@dandara.com

MAINE COURT

A 4 bed town house with garage. Minutes from the beach and Port Erin’s town centre.

£397,950

THE HAVEN

THE MANNIN

£221,950

£187,950

This popular 3 bed semidetached home is the last one remaining at Springfield Rise in Foxdale.

or visit dandara.com

A 2 bed mews home. Light fittings, carpets, wallpaper, soft furnishings and landscaped gardens are included.

Specification may vary subject to house type and build stage. Full details available on request. Prices and details correct at time of going to print. Image indicative only.

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FEATURED PROPERTY

BALDRINE PARK, LONAN Delightful and spacious conservatory -

ÂŁ374,950 1

A spacious detached house situated in a quiet residential area, with great views across the hills and Mountain. The property consists of an open plan lounge/dining room with triple aspect windows to enjoy the views, along with a delightful and spacious conservatory; there is also a separate kitchen which overlooks the side garden. Upstairs there are three bedrooms and a door to a balcony which provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Outside there are landscaped gardens, a garage and driveway which leads to a garage. The property also benefits from cavity wall insulation. HARMONEY HOMES DOUGLAS T: 01624 616200 WWW.HARMONEYHOMES.CO.IM

PAIRK BEG, PORT ERIN

ÂŁ285,000

Sun lounge which overlooks the rear garden -

A spacious semi detached house that has been completely modernised and is within walking distance to all village amenities. The house consists of an open plan lounge with dining area, along with a sun lounge which overlooks the rear garden and breakfast room. There is a modern fitted kitchen with appliances, a modern cloakroom, three bedrooms and a newly fitted shower room. The front garden is easily maintainable with pots and ornaments and has a tarmac drive for parking three cars. The rear of the property is laid with chippings for ease of maintenance and has a shed and summer house. There is also a single garage which has a new insulated roof.

HARMONEY HOMES PORT ERIN T: 01624 835252 WWW.HARMONEYHOMES.CO.IM

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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CHRISTMAS DINING

Get the table dressed for the main event with Shoprite Living. Crack out the crackers and trim up the turkey – it will soon be time for Christmas dinner!

Bone China Dinner Set 12 piece £44 Bone China Serving Dish 29cm £14 Champagne Flutes 4 pack £12 Merry Christmas Candle Holder £5

WILD WOOD TABLEWARE Crackers 12 pack £5 Taper Candles & Holder 2 pack £2.50 Napkins 16 pack £1.25 Wipeable Table Cloth £3

ODYSSEY TABLEWARE Crackers 12 pack £5 Taper Candles & Holder 2 pack £2.50 Napkins 16 pack £1.25 Charger Plate £1.50

PIXIE TABLEWARE Luxury Crackers 8 pack £10 Taper Candles & Holder 2 pack £2.50 Napkins 16 pack £1.25 Red Felt Placemat £1.50

PRODUCTS AVAILABLE FROM SHOPRITE LIVING, CHESTER STREET, DOUGLAS AND MARINA LANE, PORT ERIN BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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FEATURED PROPERTY

ERIN WAY, PORT ERIN Well maintained gardens -

£375,000 2

A spacious and modern detached house situated within walking distance to all village amenities. The property consists of a lounge, modern kitchen/ dining room with appliances, conservatory, cloakroom and utility room. There are four bedrooms (one with an en-suite) and family bathroom with shower facility. The house is uPVC double glazed throughout and has gas fired central heating. Externally there is a garage and driveway for two vehicles. There are well maintained gardens, as well as a large pavioured patio to the rear. An internal inspection is highly recommended to appreciate this well decorated and maintained property. HARMONY HOMES, PORT ERIN T: 835252 www.harmoneyhomes.co.im

LHAGG ROAD, DALBY Set in 17 acres -

£950,000 4

A highly desirable detached executive residence set in a stunning location with panoramic coastal and countryside views. The property is set in 17 acres and comprises of two spacious reception rooms having breathtaking panoramic views over valley, farmland and Niarbyl Point, over to the Mountains of Mourne. The fully fitted kitchen also enjoys country views and there is the convenience of a separate utility room. There are four bedrooms (three en-suite), a detached block built garage with store room and stable block and tack room which incorporates a small paddock area. In addition to the 17 acres, there is also the use of a field between the house and the forest. The property has a block paved patio area surrounded by shrubs with views over the countryside, benefiting from the all day sun, making a fantastic barbeque/entertainment area. HARMONY HOMES, PEEL T: 845252 www.harmoneyhomes.co.im

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BUSINESS

8 OFFSHORE JURISDICTIONS

GOAL Offshore Legal, Fiduciary and Administration Services Bermuda

British Virgin Islands

Cayman Islands

Guernsey

Hong Kong

applebyglobal.com Isle of Man

Jersey

London

Mauritius

Seychelles

Shanghai

Zurich

BUSINESS

IN THE NEWS

BUSINESS NEWS RL360° REVAMPS ITS FUND RANGE AND BAGS A GUINNESS EXCLUSIVE RL360° has revamped its guidedarchitecture fund range with the addition of several new fund links for its products. At the same time the company has agreed a 6 month savings plan exclusive arrangement with Guinness Asset Management on their recently launched UCITS version of the popular and top quartile performing Global Innovators fund. A total of 22 new fund options have been added to its Quantum, Oracle and Paragon products, introducing investment themes including infrastructure, healthcare and equity income. The new arrivals mean there are now 151 funds to choose from (or 261 including all the currency variants) across its Quantum, Oracle and Paragon products. RL360°’s protection product LifePlan has seen 8 new low volatility equity funds added to the range, which bring with them 3 new sectors – Equity Europe excluding UK, Equity North America and Equity UK. A healthcare fund has been added and Guinness Asset Management will be introduced to the range by linking to their Global Equity Income Fund. That’s now 47 LifePlan funds to choose from (95 inclusive of currency variants). For full details on the new funds and to download the latest investment guide, visit: www.rl360.com/row/downloads/funds.htm

EQUIOM ESTABLISHES SCHOOL LEAVER APPRENTICESHIPS

LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT NETWORK DED Minister backs launch of Learning & Development Network. Department of Economic Development Minister Laurence Skelly MHK says that a new organisation to promote learning and development will help to support the Island’s economic growth. The Minister was speaking at the official launch event for the Learning and Development Network which is a not for profit networking organisation that has been set up to support learning and development within the Isle of Man. It brings together, and is supported by, professionals from the public, private and third sector with the aim of maximising the Island’s potential.

EGAMING SUMMIT PARTNERS WITH WORLD RENOWNED GAMING BODY

Paul Seaward - Managing Director, Equiom (Isle of Man), Thomas Jordan, Emily Murphy, Grace O’Neill, James Everitt, David Lovelady and Fiona Noon - Senior Manager, Client Services.

Leading international trust and corporate services provider, Equiom, is proud to announce the appointment of five school leavers. Emily Murphy, David Lovelady, Grace O’Neill, James Everitt and Thomas Jordan joined Equiom at the end of September. This is the largest recruitment drive the business has seen at this level and it occurs at a time of substantial growth for the Group which has offices in the Isle of Man, Jersey and Malta. The school leavers will work within Equiom’s Client Services team with a focus on trust and company administration, with the exception of Thomas who has joined the Yachting and Aviation team, and they will be supported and receive practical training from the leaders within their departments. During their career at Equiom they will have the chance to study ICSA, STEP or any other relevant qualifications.

A high-profile partnership with one of the eGaming industry’s most esteemed organisations ensured that this year’s KPMG eGaming Summit Isle of Man was, once again, a resounding success as over 200 delegates gathered together at the Villa Marina on 11th November. Topics included cross-border cooperation by regulators, an Isle of Man sector update, part-regulated and non-regulated online gaming markets and US regulatory scheme and emerging market issues. To download speaker presentations from the KPMG eGaming Summit Isle of Man 2014, visit www.kpmg.com/im and search for ‘KPMG eGaming Summit 2014’.

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BUSINESS

RISE IN NUMBER OF DEALS FOR ISLE OF MAN DURING THIRD QUARTER The Isle of Man has once again experienced a rise in deal volume according to a report released by Appleby. The latest edition of Offshore-i, an Appleby report that provides data and insight on merger and acquisition (M&A) activity in the major offshore financial centres, said that the Isle of Man secured 35 deals across Q3 – an increase of 59% from Q2 Globally, offshore markets have seen a dip in the value and volume of deals made in the third quarter of 2014 but, in spite of this, the year as a whole is on track to be among the best showings for offshore M&A in the past decade. According to the report, the period from beginning of July to end of September experienced a 46% drop in total value of offshore deals when compared to the exceptional previous quarter. However, Appleby, one of the world’s largest providers of offshore legal, fiduciary and administration services, noted that historically the Q3 2014 numbers are strong with deal value up 25% over the same quarter in 2013. Cameron Adderley, Partner and Global Head of Corporate & Commercial, said: “Overall, the year 2014 is set up to be a peak year for value of deals conducted in our offshore markets. The first three quarters of the year have a combined total deal value north of USD200bn, which has only been exceeded in two years over the last decade. This year should surpass even those two annual totals when the Q4 numbers are included.” THE M&A ENVIRONMENT

USD48.1bn. Following the 677 recorded deals in Q2 2014, the quarter maintains an impressive run of 600-plus deals per quarter that began in 2013, the report found. In addition, the average deal in the third quarter of 2014 was worth USD77m, making it the fifth most prosperous quarter for average deal size since the start of 2010, a period of almost 20 quarters. For the first three quarters of 2014, Appleby said an average of USD102m has been spent on each transaction. Only the boom year of 2007 has come close to that level, when the average was USD100m. The third quarter boasts nine transactions worth in excess of USD1bn, and two that exceed USD2bn. Appleby also noted that deals worth less than USD100m made up a significant proportion of the quarter’s spending, marking a welcome return of activity in the lower end of the value chain. Whilst overall numbers for 2014 are positive, the report continues to strike a cautionary note due to uncertainties in some global markets, including Asia. “Austerity measures in place in so many of the developed nations are biting consumer confidence, and a pending general election in the United Kingdom will bring with it its own uncertainties in the months ahead,” said Frances Woo, Group Chairman of Appleby. “Faltering growth in China and other parts of Asia also continue to fuel hesitancy. Nonetheless, 2014 looks set to be one of the best years for offshore M&A for some time.”

In the third quarter of 2014, globally 626 deals were announced involving offshore targets, which in combination were worth

New Year New Start. Loans and Mortgages

Find out why local people choose Future Athol Street, Douglas Isle of Man, IM1 1JB Telephone: Facsimile: Email:

+44(0)1624 613217 +44(0)1624 61324830 info@future.je

BUSINESS

IN THE NEWS

CREECHURCH CAPITAL – SHOWING THE SUBSTANCE BEHIND THE STYLE Creechurch Capital Limited is an award-winning, boutique DFM based in Douglas and regulated by the Isle of Man FSC. Since forming in 2010, it has opened associated offices in Manchester and London for an enhanced service to clients. The business is poised for future expansion as it expanded to prestigious offices,One Circular Road. This announcement comes on the back of an exceptional year of award wins and stand out growth. The business will retain its headquarters and client servicing at its current location of Knox House on Finch Road. The team was named ‘Best in Class for Boutique Wealth Management Services’ Professional Adviser International Fund & Product Awards 2014, and saw two of the funds it manages, the KHG Balanced Fund and the KHG Diversified Income Fund achieve the superior five crown rating from FE Analytics - the highest rating possible, which is testament to their investment expertise. John Greenwood, CEO of Creechurch Capital, said: “Our new offices will allow for our forecasted expansion over the next few years, with space for our team to grow as we bring new clients to Creechurch Capital. “It has become evident that there is a big appetite in the market for our approach to wealth management, a bespoke service tailored to each client’s individual goals and aspirations. “Whilst further growth is welcomed, we are conscious to always remain a size which allows for flexibility, allowing us to work responsively and anticipate future trends as our clients’ needs evolve.” The new self-contained top floor suite exceeds 4,000 sq. ft., with Standard Bank occupying the remainder of the building.

But what’s the real secret behind this boutique business’ success? According to Barclays research, more than half of respondents believe that, when compared to other HNW service providers, the wealth management sector trails far behind with the level of service that it provides. Everything Creechurch does is guided by the vision that it should be the combination of industry-leading expertise, personalised service and luxury feel. The blend of these three attributes has led to the development of the Creechurch hallmark, which is its own internal stamp of approval, so whether it is our latest performance figures, a meeting with a new client or our company Christmas card, it will be very distinctively the Creechurch way. The hallmark concept follows through all of the Creechurch branding as all of its photography is personalised with the Creechurch hallmark. In a world where financial services can feel faceless and verbose, Creechurch stands apart in offering its clients an accessible offer with desirable aesthetics that truly engage its client base. The experienced team worked for large investment management companies but had the vision that a personalised, agile model would provide clients with what they need; performance and service. Creechurch recognises the importance of a high-calibre team who share its values; in a business this size, each person’s contribution really matters.

The investment strategy is macro driven and then utilises a wide contact base to search out solutions for each asset allocation decision. The team ensures regular attendance at investment seminars, analysis of the financial media and discussions with key parties that also prove excellent sources of information and ideas. Creechurch operates under an institutional due diligence process and communicates this with its clients to manage expectations and risk, which begins with an initial desktop evaluation, a site visit to manager and a review by the investment committee prior to decision. The firm will then carry out an ongoing due diligence process which includes at least one annual manager visit to the provider, showing the substance behind the style.

Where the business stands apart from its competitors is the absolute commitment to service and access to senior-level counsel regardless of the size of portfolio the client holds with the business. The team gains a deep understanding of each client’s situation and future aspirations with

UNIFIED COMMS PROVIDER PLAN.COM BRING NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO THE ISLAND’S RECRUITMENT MARKET

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regular contact via the most convenient channel.

technology & IT, to commercial and finance, we have some of the best talent in the business and we’re looking for more.”

The Isle of Man Employment & Skills event had a new face among its exhibitors this month as plan.com took to the floor to showcase its latest vacancies, which are growing by the week!

She continued, “If you have a nose for sales, a passion for technology or a head for numbers we want to hear from you. We’re particular interested in any software developers and coders out there who can help to push our tech solutions to a whole new level.

Jointly hosted by the Department of Economic Development and the Department of Education and Children, the Employment & Skills 2014 event took place on Thursday 13 November at the Villa Marina and is the largest local event highlighting career and training opportunities for Isle of Man residents.

The employment and skills event was a great opportunity for our team to meet with some of the Island’s young professionals seeking their next employment opportunity. We’ve already received some interesting CVs and have started interviewing for a few positions. It’s an exciting time for plan.com!”

Nicola Patterson, HR Manager at plan.com commented, “Six months in we’ve already doubled in size, taking on over 15 new staff in 2014 alone, and have secured over 190 mobile partners. From

Follow plan.com on Facebook, Twitter and Linked for all of the latest news and vacancies.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

An award-winning boutique

BUSINESS

FUTURE FINANCE

New Year New Start More Money in your pocket with “Future Loans” Christmas is a time of spending, relaxing and having fun. However, there is a temptation to go overboard to provide your loved ones with the perfect gift. The result can be disastrous on your financial position. Many people use credit cards and overdrafts, creating a risk that they end up servicing the interest only or get used to living in their overdraft. With bank and credit card charges continuing to increase, it may be time to consider consolidating your debts into one affordable and manageable facility. That way, you know you are regularly reducing the amount you owe and every payment made is a step closer to removing the liability.

NEW HOME “FUTURE MORTGAGES” Providing residential, commercial mortgages and interest only facilities, Future Mortgages are well placed to help you move into your dream home in 2015. Whilst being an exciting time, buying a property can be challenging and stressful. Future Mortgages are there to help make the process easier and pain-free. We look after both the private and commercial market and encourage our clients to follow their hearts and dreams, but without overstretching themselves. At Future Mortgages we create solutions that are right for you and suit your individual circumstances. We pride ourselves on good

With bank and credit card charges continuing to increase, it may be time to consider consolidating your debts into one affordable and manageable facility. With fixed costs and a flexible approach, we can help you clear expensive credit, have one monthly outgoing and have the option of a payment break to help in emergencies. So, start 2015 with a fresh approach to your finances and a clear, manageable deadline to repay your loan. We can help you reduce your monthly outgoings and tailor the loan to ensure you have more disposable income every month.

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service and our recommendations and solutions are tailored to each client.

NEW BUSINESS “FUTURE INVOICE FINANCE” TOMORROW’S CASH FLOW TODAY Starting a new venture or looking to expand your current business? Do you manage a growing business and worry that your cash flow is not keeping pace with your growth? Do you have a strong sales ledger

WORDS | Zoe Hawley, Future Finance

and wish to access cash from those sales today? Do you find credit control difficult / challenging? Are you a small team without the resource to employ a full time credit controller or would like to reduce the burden and cost of an existing credit control team? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, then Future Invoicing can help to improve your cash flow in 2015. Future Invoicing has worked with numerous local businesses, providing essential cash flow and support, plus credit control services. This has enabled businesses to focus on what they excel at and let us provide the back end support. Feedback from our existing clients is exceptional.

NEW PURCHASE? Looking to buy a new car, boat or asset for yourself or your business? Future Loans can provide tailored and competitive facilities for any asset purchase. However small or large the opportunity, we will offer you the same level of support. We are totally unique in the market being privately-owned, privately-funded and not tied to a particular bank. Our flexible local lending approach will ensure you have access to the funds you need to take your next steps. We invite you to discover why we are the fastest growing local lender that cannot be matched on flexibility. Last year over 90% of loans applied for were granted and we achieved market leading turn-around times. We helped customer’s finance everything from commercial vehicles to plant and machinery, and also enabled people to take the holiday of a lifetime, finance their first cars and facilitate business innovations.” Future Athol Street, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 1JB Tel: 01624 613217 info@future.je www.future.je

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FREE calls when you switch to new Sure Business Phone!

Take advantage of free calls with new Sure Business Phone, priced at just £5 per ISDN channel per month. New Sure Business Phone enables you to make significant savings on your telephone bills. Using your existing line, Sure Business Phone re-routes calls over our network. • FREE calls to all Sure mobiles • FREE calls to UK and Ireland fixed lines • FREE calls to local fixed lines • Calls to MT mobiles at just 5p per minute • International calls from just 5p per minute • No change to your existing telephone numbers Please contact business@sure.com for more information.

international.sure.com

For full terms and conditions, please see www.sure.com

BUSINESS

Dual launch from Sure

Paves the way for business telephony price cuts

ith the competition tap now turning towards ‘full on’ in the Island’s telecom industry, Sure has released their first wave of new products and services for the corporate market, amid predictions that significant cost savings could soon follow. In October the Isle of Man telecoms regulator, the Communications Commission, declared that Manx Telecom’s monopoly should end. Sure has responded by unveiling their full Mitel offering, which provides integrated business telephony communications systems, and Red Box, the leading voice and data recording facility. The company is already an authorised partner for both Mitel and Red Box but has,

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until now, been restricted in its ability to fully market the full range of products and services they provide. The first stages of open market competition in the Island’s telecoms sector came into affect with Carrier Pre-Select (CPS). This has enabled customers to select Sure, instead of Manx Telecom, to carry calls on their standard exchange line.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

BUSINESS

I AM CONFIDENT THAT SURE WILL NOW ADD A NEW TELECOMS DIMENSION TO THE ISLAND’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY IN THE WAY THAT WE DELIVER, OPERATE AND PROVIDE SERVICE SUPPORT AROUND PRODUCTS LIKE MITEL AND RED BOX. .

Shortly, the same facility will also be open to Sure for ISDN lines: a key milestone in the company’s ability to offer a full spectrum of services to the Isle of Man business sector. “Although we have been authorised partners of both Mitel and Red Box, without prior access to the fixed line sector on the Island it hasn’t been possible to offer businesses a real choice in their telephony services. But now we can,” explains Sure’s Chief Operating Officer, Mike Phillips. “Mitel elevates the telephone system from being just a phone on a desk. Instead it becomes a core business tool that enables a company to operate and control an efficient, cost effective and highly flexible telephony service, incorporating fixed line, mobile and VOIP applications, inside or outside the office, on Island or overseas.” He adds that, in tandem with Mitel, Red Box provides a robust call recording service which growing numbers of businesses now regard as an essential element of their dayto-day operations. “Already, the feedback we have received from companies has been very interesting given that, until now, the Island has been operating a single player market regarding telephony systems into which we have been severely restricted from entering. That’s already starting to radically change with open market competition. I am confident that Sure will now add a new telecoms dimension to the Island’s business community in the way that we deliver, operate and provide service support around products like Mitel and Red Box.”

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Mike also predicts that business customers could now expect to see significant reductions in their telephony costs by switching to Sure.

“IF YOU LOOK AT THE IMPACT OF COMPETITION IN THE MARKET, AFTER SURE LAUNCHED ITS MOBILE SERVICES HERE IN 2007, ON AVERAGE OVER THE NEXT TWO TO THREE YEARS WE WERE ABLE TO BRING ABOUT A 77% REDUCTION IN COSTS. WE NOW EXPECT TO DO A VERY SIMILAR THING IN THE FIXED LINE TELEPHONY SPACE.”

its existing 2G and 3G mobile network and launched 4G, providing Island-wide coverage across all three technologies Furthermore, the imminent introduction of wholesale line rental (WLR) means that, for the first time, all costs associated with fixed line telephony services, including access to the lines, can be achieved seamlessly via Sure, with no recourse to Manx Telecom. “Now that we have access to key services such as CPS, and shortly WLR, this changes our position considerably. We can now package and deliver products, like Mitel and Red Box, from a position of strength, as we should be allowed to do as a genuine, full service telecoms operator. But this is just the start as far as we are concerned. With the ability to properly compete, we intend to innovate and really drive both choice and opportunity for the Isle of Man’s corporate market,” Mike confirms.

“This demonstrates our ability and determination to be a genuine full service telecoms company in the corporate market, providing businesses customers with real choice for the first time,” Mike states. The New Year is shaping up to be a momentous time for Sure in more ways than one; the company will have replaced

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BUSINESS

IN BUSINESS

WORDS | John Hunter, Isle of Man Bank

A NEW JOB… AND A NEW HOUSE

y day currently starts with a new commute from Ramsey instead of Onchan where I lived previously for seven years. Moving to a new home has meant a somewhat earlier start to the day, which is something Lucy and I are just getting used to.

I have also taken on a new role of head of corporate and commercial banking and real estate finance at Isle of Man Bank, so I am getting accustomed to both a new home and a new job but I found that the experience of one has inspired me in the other. A certainty about the new job is that no one day is going to be the same. The team cover such a wide variety of business customers and disciplines that I can never predict what will be on the agenda in any given morning.

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Another certainty is that moving house has been as stressful as it gets, especially as we have purchased a property built in around 1800 that needs a lot of TLC. I was exchanging contracts on a Monday and completing on a Wednesday which was stressful enough but thanks to great work by both NatWest Mortgage Services and Callin Wild, we got there. Corkills Removals worked at short notice and tirelessly to have the house packed up by close of the Tuesday and all delivered safely to the new property. Then, on day one of moving into the new house, we had a leak running near some electrics, followed by a gas tumble dryer, (yes really), that needed to be removed and finally some new appliances to plumb in - faced with that at a stressful time, the service provided by plumbers, Paul Wheeler Ltd., in Ramsey was first class. When I needed help they delivered and similarly when an electric fault arose which affected the boiler, employees from Gough Electrical Ltd were there within 30 minutes to resolve the problem. This series of incidents drove home to me how important it is that the Isle of Man Bank has that local expertise to serve our customers and that we make sure we are always there for them when we are needed. More importantly, it highlighted how working together is important - there

were quite a number of individuals and firms involved in making our house move happen successfully and to be on hand to sort out the problems that arose. Without them I have no doubt I would have a few more grey hairs. Paul Wheeler, whose plumbing firm assisted me when we moved, has been a personal and business customer of the bank for many years and he offers a positive endorsement for our services. He told me, ‘One of the main factors for using Isle of Man Bank is that there is always someone at the end of the phone to provide help when required or alternatively they are happy to arrange a meeting.’

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

BUSINESS

This series of incidents drove home to me how important it is that the Isle of Man Bank has that local expertise to serve our customers and that we make sure we are always there for them when we are needed. . John with Paul Wheeler and his plumbing team at Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new home.

Service provided by Isle of Man Bank is also about a team able to respond to a customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specific needs. I have inherited a strong group of highly experienced relationship staff equipped with ample expertise in corporate and business banking and local real estate finance. Alongside as part of my working day, I can call upon the wider local bank teams in Premium Banking, Coutts for private banking and at Lombard, for commercial lending services.

We are very much open for business and my hugely experienced team is keen to offer its local expertise and in so doing, help our customers find solutions to their diverse needs.

Just as when I moved house and looked to expertise locally to assist me, so the Bank has a similar role to play in assisting the financial ambitions of the local community.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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BUSINESS

THE ISLE OF MAN EMPLOYMENT & SKILLS 2014 EVENT - VILLA MARINA

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

BUSINESS

facebook/employment-and-skills-iom

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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BUSINESS

APPOINTMENTS

NEW DIRECTOR OF TOURISM AND THE VISITOR ECONOMY APPOINTED The Department of Economic Development has announced the appointment of Robin Bischert to the role of Director of Tourism and the Visitor Economy. His three year fixed term appointment is effective from 1stOctober 2014. Robin brings a wealth of experience to the role. Most recently he acted as Interim Chief Executive Royal Greenwich Destination Management Company where he created and established the company and oversaw the destinations marketing and visitor service activities during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Previous to that he enjoyed seven successful years the Chief Executive of Bath Tourism Plus Limited, a public and private sector partnership, leading it to become one of the most commercially successful and nationally respected Destination Management Organisations in the UK. In addition, he has broad strategic and operational leadership experience in the leisure and sport sectors, gained as a Management Consultant with Ernst & Young and PricewaterhouseCoopers, based in the UK and Middle East; and in Senior Management roles with, for example, Wembley Stadium Group and Parkwood Leisure Limited.

RUTH ROBINSON SHORTLISTED FOR THE POWER WOMEN AWARDS

ADVOCATE JOHN RIMMER LISTED IN GLOBAL WHO’S WHO

ABACUS EMPLOYEE RECEIVES CARTER JONES MCDONALD AWARD 2014 Donna Richards, Trust and Corporate Administrator at Abacus Trust Company Limited, has been presented the Carter Jones McDonald Award 2014 for her results in the recent Corporate Secretarial Practice exam of the Chartered Secretaries Qualifying Scheme. The Isle of Man branch of the Institute for Chartered Secretaries and Administrators has been presenting awards to students for various modules of the qualification for a number of years. The award which was first introduced in 2013 and is sponsored by local law firm, Carter Jones McDonald, recognises individuals who achieve the highest exam results on the Island for the Corporate Secretarial Practice module, for which Mr McDonald is also a tutor.

EQUIOM APPOINTS YACHTING AND AVIATION MANAGER

Boston is delighted to announce that Ruth Robinson, Director and Head of Boston Family Office, has been shortlisted for the Citywealth Power Women Awards in two categories: “Woman of the Year: Leadership (Professional Services)” and “Champion of the Year: Mentoring”.

Advocate John Rimmer is celebrating his nomination in one of the legal industry’s most prestigious global listings having been nominated amongst the Most Highly Regarded Individuals for offshore litigation in the Who’s Who Legal: Private Clients 2014.

The Power Women awards were introduced by Citywealth to champion women in the wealth sector and highlight the female leaders of today and tomorrow. They aim to identify individual females and companies who support care-giving responsibilities, female leadership and celebrate diversity in order to maximise the potential of women in the wealth sector. The awards recognise individuals and companies who maximise the potential of women in wealth and also create a platform for best practice to collectively exercise positive social influence on the sector.

The listing recognises John Rimmer as one of the world’s leading practitioners in his field, describing him as “the go-to guy” on the Isle of Man. The description continues: “He has a “first class” reputation for advising law firms, trust companies, banks, life insurance companies, family offices, individuals and charities on trusts, foundations, wills, estate planning, taxation and charity law.”

Winners will be announced at a prestigious dinner in London on 22nd January 2015. www.citywealthmag.com/events/powerwomen-awards

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Since 1996, Who’s Who Legal has identified the foremost legal practitioners in 34 areas of business law. The listing features over 16,000 of the world’s leading private practice lawyers in over 100 countries and prides itself on the integrity and authority of its findings. Listings are independently researched and based on peer recommendations.

Andrew will be based at the company’s Jersey office with responsibility for the management of ownership structures for Equiom’s wide range of international Yachting and Aviation clients. Prior to joining Equiom, Andrew held the position of Senior Trust Officer at a Jersey Trust Company where he gained valuable experience in the management of complex ownership yachting and aviation structures across multiple jurisdictions.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

ACTIVE

ladies only gym

Westmoreland Road, Douglas Single payments: 1 class 1 day

Also available: Power plate sessions, personal trainers, personal coaching, Megasun sunbed and food intolerance testing.

Monthly payments: £5 £8.50

1 week

£21

1 month – student

£25

1 month – over 60s

£25

1 month

£49

3 months

£139

Off peak – 1 year

£300

Full – 1 year

£350

Off peak

£32.99

Full

£37.99

Memberships include: access to the gym, a great variety of classes, our spa including sauna steam room and Jacuzzi – and the Karma coffee lounge where you can relax and talk to friends.

For more information call us on 679419 or email info@warehousefitness.co.uk /warehousefitnessiom | www.warehousefitness.co.uk

SPORT

NEWS

ACTIVE NEWS

COUNTDOWN IS ON FOR MANX TELECOM PARISH WALK 2015! The countdown to the Manx Telecom Parish Walk 2015 has begun! Entries opened on December 1 and there are discounts available for those who sign-up early. Those entering before January 31 will pay £30, entry before March 31 costs £35, and after that it is £40. Manx Telecom customers entering before January 31 will receive an additional £5 discount. All entries must be made online at www.parishwalk.com and the final closing date is May 10. The 85-mile race is on Saturday June 20, starting as usual from the NSC. Certificates will be awarded to all walkers who complete the full 85-miles in under 24 hours. Sub 18 hour finishers receive a gold certificate, 18 to 21 hour finishers receive silver, and 21 to 24 hour finishers, bronze.

Younger walkers aged 18 to 21 can also compete, with prizes for the first male and first female competitors to cover the 32.5 miles to Peel. There’s also a competition for teams of three in the same age group over the same distance. The winners will be the trio with the fastest combined time, and there are separate prizes for men’s and women’s teams. Last year Manx Telecom extended its commitment to sponsor the Parish Walk until 2017. The company’s support for the event goes back to 2007 when it began sponsoring the official timing and results service. For more information visit: www.parishwalk.com

There is a Corporate Team Award for teams of four walkers who are all from the same Isle of Man based company. Teams may include no more than one walker who has previously completed the full 85 mile distance. The winners will be the team with the highest aggregate distance covered by all four members.

GRANITE MANN TRIATHLON ROCKS! More than 100 competitors battled it out in the Island’s first ever off-road triathlon on Sunday October 26. The Granite Mann event – organised by The Children’s Centre and sponsored by PwC - featured more than 50 individual competitors and 30 teams. It began with a 400metre swim in the chilly waters of Cringle Reservoir, the first time a competitive swimming event has been held in the reservoir. The triathletes then tackled a 10km mountain bike ride along fantastic trails through Cringle Plantation, and a 5km run along plantation tracks. There were prizes for the fastest male and female competitors, Joseph Riciardi won the men’s event in 1:16:24, and Nikki Sharpe won the women’s race in 1:46:35. The team prize went to Two & a Half Men which comprised Graham Annett, Ian Brookfield & Paul Renshaw who finished in a time of 1:06:58. The event raised over £4,000 for its charitable projects Mobex, Out2Play, Child Contact Centre, Community Development and the Community Farm which all help families and children across the Island.

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EQUESTRIAN

WORDS | Hannah Goodby

What is TREC?

I asked myself the same question.

t appeared as though there was an equestrian sport I knew nothing about. Not one to enjoy being left out, it was only logical that I attempt to find out more. Luckily I was asked to come along to a recent event and see what all the fuss was about.

A BIT OF BACKGROUND TREC is designed to test the skills of a horse and rider needed when trail riding; navigation across different terrain, fitness of horse and rider, and ability to deal with natural obstacles. It originated in France as a way of testing and improving the skills of trail-ride leaders, and was introduced into the UK in the early 1990’s.

STARTREC

THE SPORT CONSISTS OF 3 PHASES: ORIENTEERING PHASE Riders follow a set route, on their own or in pairs, which they have copied onto a map themselves at a range of pre-determined speeds. The routes vary in length from 10-40km and riders lose points (from a maximum of 240) for using an incorrect route or being too fast or too slow. At the higher levels riders may be asked to navigate using grid references or compass bearings only. CONTROL OF PACES PHASE Riders must demonstrate their control over their horse’s paces by cantering as slowly as possible along a track and then returning in walk as fast as possible. Points (out of a maximum of 60) are determined by the time taken for each pace. OBSTACLE PHASE Riders complete a course of 16 obstacles which are designed to represent things that could be found on a ride, each of which is judged out of 10 (maximum points available 160). The course has a time limit and points are deducted for exceeding the limit. Obstacles may be required to be completed ridden or led, and include things like riding through water, opening and closing a gate, jumping a small fence and riding or leading up or down a slope, over a bank or through a dip.

TREC made its first appearance on the Island in 2012 and has being going from strength to strength. Now in 2014 it has a dedicated committee that runs events on a monthly basis, in keeping with TREC GB (the governing body). The points gained by a rider or pair are totalled and the highest total wins.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

SPORT

MY EXPERIENCE It was a Saturday lunchtime when I jumped in my car and headed down to Kennaa Equestrian Centre. Riding hat in hand I was ready to have go, not just observe. When I arrived the atmosphere was very relaxed and friendly. There certainly didn’t seem to be any pressure on the competitors. Everybody was having fun and there were several obstacles set up in the indoor arena. To give you an idea there were narrow poles, a low branch to go under, a bridge made of pallets and poles that bent in and out; all were there to simulate what you might come across whilst hacking out (riding out on roads or in plantations etc). This tests the trust and control between horse and rider. I watched 3 combinations in action, all of various ages, and mounted on very different horses. The beauty of TREC is that you don’t need a flash horse or any special equipment, just standard riding attire is fine along with hi-vis clothing for the orienteering stage. Full of enthusiasm and intrigued - as always when trying something new - I mounted Gillian Newey’s ‘Misty’ (14hh). Gillian assured me that Misty would look after me! She was clearly a pro as we navigated our way around the obstacles. It was great fun and took more skill than I first thought.

IN SUMMARY As an instructor I like the fact that, in a very relaxed way, TREC helps to teach the basics of riding a horse properly and promotes better horsemanship - something I am very passionate about. So TREC gets the thumbs’ up from me. If you would like to have a go yourself and get involved in this exciting equestrian sport, you can contact Jo Ralston, visit the website at www.treciom.com, or find it on facebook www.facebook.com/treciom With Christmas fast approaching and given the title of the article I should have a witty pun involving ‘live long and prosper’, but instead I’ll stick to tradition and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

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GALLERY .......................... .......................... .......................... .......................... ..........................

TO EDUCATE, AMUSE AND ENTERTAIN MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL AT GALLERY SEE YOU IN FEBRUARY 2015

GALLERY

HARDWARE

HYBRID CARS NOW MAKE UP ALMOST A QUARTER OF TOYOTA’S SALES IN THE UK, THE FIRM HAS ANNOUNCED

MOTORING NEWS

hanks to huge increases in sales figures for the British-build Auris Hybrid and good results for the new Aygo and low-CO2 RAV4, Toyota GB is up 4.5% versus last year. In total, 22.5% of those sales were petrol-electric hybrids.

WHEELS AND DEALS

espite recently launching a compact SUV, Porsche hasn’t forgotten its sports car roots. The German car maker has added a new GTS version to its 911 model line-up. Available in both coupe and convertible bodystyles plus rear and four-wheel drive, the 911 Carrera GTS boasts an uprated version of the 3.8-litre engine found in the regular Carrera S and a host of GTS specific standard kit. Packing 430 horsepower - 30 more than the regular S models - the GTS shaves a few tenths off the zero to 62mph sprint when combined with Porsche’s dual clutch gearbox, while the quoted top speed with

the standard fit seven-speed gearbox is now 198mph. Visual differences run to adopting the wide body and increased rear track from the Carrera 4 variant, while the car’s rear deck sports bespoke GTS trim details and it gains unique-to-GTS matte black 20-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the driver and front passenger sit in an exclusive Alcantara interior with leathertrimmed sport seats. Available to order now, first deliveries are expected in November with prices from £91,098 for the rear-wheel drive coupe to £104,385 for the all-wheel drive convertible.

The Auris Hybrid has sold 20.6% more units than at this point in 2013, and its popularity has grown to include almost half of all Auris sales in the UK. Meanwhile, the Aygo has made an “immediate impact” according to Toyota, selling almost 20% better than the old model. The RAV4, which in recent years has been reduced to very small volumes in the face of stronger competition from the likes of Nissan and Volkswagen, has seen an 80% boost in fleet sales thanks to a lower-CO2 diesel option. Hybrid power is also proving popular in the supermini Yaris. A quarter of those bought in the UK are equipped with the proven and self-recharging full hybrid system pioneered in the late 1990s by the Prius.

THE PORSCHE 911 CARRERA RS 2.7 WAS THE BEST CAR TO INVEST IN OVER THE LAST DECADE, SAYS NEW RESEARCH FROM THE DISCOVERY CHANNEL

arking the 100th car to feature on the digital TV channel’s Wheeler Dealers show, in an episode last month, the Wheeler Dealers team picked out 20 of the best-known and most sought-after classic cars. And, in 2004, the wisest owls of all would have put their money into the old Porsche, which has seen a stratospheric increase in prices from £65,000 to £500,000 - a 669% explosion. The Aston Martin DB5 and DB6, famously associated with James Bond, were second and third on the list, having seen 500% and 478% increases respectively and leaving their canny owners laughing all the way to the bank. Other wise automotive investments were genuine AC Cobras, which have increased from £150,000 to £650,000 on the open market, while Ferrari, Lotus and Jaguar all had cars in the top 10. The biggest surprise was the Land Rover Series I, the original that spawned a breed that continues to this day - although emissions regulations are set to kill off the Defender for good. Series I owners have seen prices go from £6,000 in 2004 to £20,000 now, making it the best mass-produced investment in the study.

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Only one of the 20 classic cars lost value over the decade. The RollsRoyce Silver Shadow fell from £12,000 to £8,000. Wheeler Dealers sees presenters Mike Brewer and Edd China buy classic cars at the right price, fix them up on a budget and sell them on for a profit. Classic car expert Dave Selby helped Discovery to compile the figures. A Discovery Channel spokesperson said: “From the much coveted Aston Martin DB5 to the humble Fiat 500, classic car owners across the UK are sitting on a small fortune, thanks to the boom in the vintage car market over the last decade.”

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

THE STRIKIN G NEW LEXUS NX

The new lu xury hybri d NX . Striking d esign mee ts innovati Discover ve techno the NX an logy. d will.i.am at lexus .c project o.uk/NX

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Isle of Man Business Park, Cooil Road, Braddan, Isle of Man, IM2 2QZ TEL: 01624 613603

NX range available from £29,495 - £42,995

www.isleofman.lexus.co.uk

NX 300h Luxury fuel consumption and CO2 figures: urban 53.3 mpg (5.3 l/100km), extra-urban 55.4 mpg (5.1 l/100km), combined 54.3 mpg (5.2 l/100km), 121g/km CO2 (17% BIK).

HARDWARE

THE SUPER-RICH DO THINGS BETTER THAN THE REST OF US. 5-STAR HOTELS, SPEED BOATS AND BANK STATEMENTS THAT REQUIRE MORE PAGES THAN A DISSERTATION. UNDERSTANDABLY THEN, THIS MONTH’S LIST OF THE MOST OPULENT GADGETS ON THE MARKET WILL MAKE THE COMMON MAN SHAKE WITH AN INCREDIBLY BITTER MIX OF JEALOUSY AND SELF-DEPRECATION. However, don’t be discouraged by this list of dream items, and simply remember that they serve only as an inspiration to do better in your professional life. I mean, who wouldn’t want to own a camera that only takes back and white photos? It’s a worrying comment on the state of our society today that people are willing to pay £50,000 on a CD player, when a Walkman can be found online for about £30. In this Americanised culture where outward signs of wealth are

more important than good old English repression, not only would we find Freud rolling in his grave, but we’ve also seen the growth of a market filled with gadgets made specifically for those with about as much budgeting sense as Tony Abbott. For some reason, major companies are now seeing fit to charge what can only be called house prices for things like turntables and USB typewriters, and yet these now useless items are becoming popular.

Regardless of the necessity/practicality of these products, we can’t deny that they exist, as do the people that are willing to buy them, and thus it seems fitting to write about them. So, this month, in more of an exposé than a review, we celebrate and denounce the insanity of the opulent members of society, and their ridiculous wants and false needs.

USB TYPEWRITER

The amount of coding that goes into the software of a tablet is, to the normal, non-engineer or programmer, unbelievable. Simply the keypad, something we take for granted when typing an email or browsing the sites of the internet that only a tablet can do justice, takes months of work. For many, evidently, the greatest way to honour this amount of work is to fork out hundreds of pounds on something that completely negates it. The USB Typewriter is, according to its creator, “a ground-breaking advancement”, although I am loath to call this an advancement, given the first typewriter was created in 1868. Personally, I will never understand the obsession with vintage, however it seems that Jack Zylkin, the mastermind behind this revolutionary product, has found a way to milk every single penny he can out of the hipsters that will undoubtedly find a way of ironically claiming to “hate” modern technology whilst plugging their gleaming iPads into these machines. This ‘ground-breaking’ technology isn’t available in shops yet, but go online to the imaginatively named www. usbtypewriter.com to find them. This product made its way into the list for this month partly because of its representation of a culture that will throw money at anything that makes them seem slightly affluent, but also partly because of its ridiculous price tag. At £510 ($799), the question of value is quickly raised in the mind of any person that realizes this technology is not only pointless, but obsolete. In any case, there’s joy in the fact that the unaffordable price means all of your alternative friends won’t be boasting about the fact he can write “old-school” every time you mention writing an essay.

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STEALTH ARCADE TABLE

Now for the one gadget on this list I actually like. This table, despite looking like an avant-garde architect’s wet dream, is the perfect example of the rich living undeniably better lives than the rest of us. Whilst some of us sit around shouting and screaming at the TV, questioning whether life is really worth living when Danny Webber of Accrington Stanley puts a 90th minute goal past you on FIFA, those with money to burn sit at home and quietly enjoy the 60 classic arcade games that are pre-installed on this, although it is probably quite difficult to enjoy Pacman when you’ve drunk so much Veuve Clicquot that you can’t see. The social, competitive element is most likely wasted on a society where every other sentence is gossip, although that may improve the passive-aggressive competition. The Stealth Arcade Table is a steal £2,000, and can be ordered online from many major retailers.

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HARDWARE

WOLF WATCH WINDERS

A watch winder is a device used to keep automatic (also known as self winding) watches running when not worn. Automatic watches operate on the principle of winding themselves using a moving weight inside the watch. The weight swings or rotates while the watch is worn and turns the winding mechanism inside the watch. So, fairly obviously, if the watch is not worn, then it no longer receives power this way and will run down. While virtually all automatic watches can be manually wound, this is not always convenient. So the concept of an automatic watch winder was born.

LEICA M MONOCHROME

What is the point of buying a camera? You want to take pictures of the things that mean something to you, whether they are touching family moments or just semi-blurred pictures of trees that you can put on facebook in order to claim a photography career. There is concurrent theme amongst cameras that have been produced since the mid 1800s, and that is that they can take colour pictures. Colour is one of the main tools the artist (as they call themselves) has in their arsenal, evoking senses and imagery with a simple contrast. However, nowadays it seems that everyone that has a spare £30 can buy a cheap digital camera, change the settings to black and white and throw around phrases like “it captures the darkness of our society” with reckless abandon. Honestly, it’s no wonder so many people are diagnosed as depressed when our world is so often depicted without colour by these fools that feel they need to ‘express’ themselves by removing one of the prominent methods of expression in photography.

Keep your premium watch ticking by parking it on a WOLF watch winder. WOLF make watch windes to accommodate all types of automatic watches and are available to purchase from Wilkins Jewellers on Strand Street, Douglas.

But I digress. Leica, the company probably most famous for having one of their cameras feature heavily in the teen film Euro Trip, have decided to jump on the dark and brooding bandwagon, and have cut out the overly-strenuous task of changing the settings on your camera by creating a product that only takes black and white photographs, ironically probably cutting out half their target demographic simultaneously given the price of the thing. Who but a person banding money around in order to compensate for a lack of something else would throw $8,000 (£5,000) at something that performs quite literally 1% of the actions any other modern digital camera is capable of? I will end this glowing review with the undying words of Stephen Porges: “Still, I bet this camera is probably fantastic at bringing out the pathos in us all”.

BURMESTER AUDIOSYSTEM REFERENCE LINE CD PLAYER 069

I’ll keep this one short and sweet. Instead of having this basic CD player, you could have 10 Nissan Versas at $10,000 each, which could, if you felt like it, play 10 CDs at the same time; and it’s rare you see a CD player making the school run.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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GIFTS

CHRISTMAS

HUAWEI ASCEND Y550 4G ready phone with FREE Talkband FREE on any SMART contract

NOKIA LUMIA 930 20 megapixel camera and surround-sound FREE on Sure’s SmartUltimate £46/m plan

HTC ONE M8 With a FREE Harman Kardon Onyx Studio Wireless speaker system £49 on Sure’s Smart400 £36/m plan

IPHONE 6 4G capable & 8MP camera Ask in store for the latest price

UPP Powers up your smartphone as fast as plugging it in to the wall £149.95 (consisting of a Fuel Cell and Upp Cartridge)

SONY XPERIA Z3 An impressive IP65/68 waterproof rating £49 on Sure’s SmartUltimate £46/m plan

ALL ITEMS FEATURED ON THIS PAGE ARE AVAILABLE AT SURE 15 STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS 4 ORCHARD WALK, PORT ERIN 10 PARLIMENT STREET, RAMSEY

Be Smart this Christmas. Top up by just £20 and get a 3G Smartphone from only £49, or a 4G Smartphone from only £99. Ask in store for details or online at www.sure.com

£49

Huawei Y330

£99

£59 Samsung Galaxy Young 2

While stocks last. Specified handsets only available at above prices if you top up £20.

Huawei Y550

£109 Nokia Lumia 635

UPFRONT

PHONE HOME

THE PERFECT GIFT FOR TRAVELLERS EVERYWHERE! Discovering that your phone is out of charge when you need it is one of modern life’s more painful experiences, particularly when you’re abroad. It doesn’t matter whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, when you want to use your mobile whilst travelling, you need it there and then, which is what makes Upp the ultimate accessory for travellers everywhere. Upp is the perfect portable solution for those mobile energy needs. It’s an easily carried mobile phone recharger that fits all types of phones and doesn’t need recharging itself, you just plug in a new cartridge and away you go. Each cartridge lasts for about a week and charges the phone as quickly as it does at home, so you can carry on talking or using those apps whilst the device is charging. Upp also means that you can ditch those awkward travel adapters hat we all carry with us when we’re away. Crucially, Upp has the required authorisations to be carried on aircraft so it really can go wherever you are headed. It also comes with a smart app that communicates with your smartphone and lets you manage your device’s battery life ensuring you get the most from each cartridge. The app also tracks your energy usage profile, giving you the chance to adapt your behaviour to make the battery last longer. Upp is the ideal gift for the travellers in your life and is exclusively available from Sure for just £149. Pop into one of the Sure stores in Douglas, Ramsey or Port Erin to find out more. COME AND VISIT US IN ONE OF THE ISLAND’S SURE STORES 15 STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS 4 ORCHARD WALK, PORT ERIN 10 PARLIMENT STREET, RAMSEY

SAMSUNG GALAXY NOTE 4 With a crystal clear image across the 5.7 inch LCD touchscreen, Samsung has packed in an even better display, more power and a great camera making the Galaxy Note 4 an excellent 4G ready smartphone to take home this Christmas. Hosting a premium finish to the exterior design, the model introduces a new sleek and stylish Galaxy design language. Owning a fluid curvature and soft-textured back cover, it makes for incredible comfort, a superior grip and enhanced durability. Upon using the Galaxy Note 4, the precise colour saturation and high contrast display boasts a tremendous viewing experience allowing you to enjoy crystal clear images beyond the limits of the human eye. The model also doubles as an excellent device truly optimised for web-browsing and e-reading in style at your leisure. Looking for a device capable of capturing those priceless party moments this Christmas? Look no further as the advanced 16MP rear camera and 3.7MP front camera shoots brighter and clearer images, capturing all of those best moments, even in dark surroundings. Extending the use of the rear camera, The Galaxy Note 4 presents a new way to take notes with the introduction of Photo Note. Taking photos using Photo Note instantly converts analogue to digital allowing you to edit notes, change colours and add in additional memos easily with its advanced S Pen.

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Offering an improved touch and feel like a real pen, the S Pen bids an improved digital handwriting experience like no other through its enhanced pressure sensitivity allowing you to enrich your writing through more precise expression. Pressed for time, the Galaxy Note 4 has an impressive fast charging, lengthened use, thanks to its charging speed improvement meaning the phone can charge from zero to 50% in around 30 minutes. Alternatively, switch on its Ultra Power saving mode to make that last bit of battery go the distance. With an unbeatable display, great design and high end specifications, the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 is available from Manx Telecom for FREE @ £65 per month on the Smartphone Unlimited tariff*. For more information see www.manxtelecom.com/ shop, call 624 624 or visit our Strand Street store in Douglas. *Unlimited allowances are subject to a fairusage policy of 5,000 minutes or texts per month and are available on contracts of 12+ months. KEY FEATURES • 5.7 inch LCD touchscreen • 16 megapixel camera with a 3.7 mega pixel front camera • 32GB internal memory • Android OS • 4G ready

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO : WWW.MANXTELECOM.COM/SHOP CALL: 624624 OR POP INTO THE STORE IN STRAND ST. BEST PRICES GUARANTEED BY MANX TELECOM PRICE MATCH PROMISE ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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Independent local charity Crimestoppers is currently celebrating its 15th anniversary.

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Crimestoppers is a charity working to make your community a safer place. They make it easy for anyone to provide information about crime in the community. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen an incident but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to go to the police, you can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers by phone, or search online for Crimestoppers Isle of Man.

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PAPA RAZ ZI

If you would like a professional photographer to cover your event or party, get in touch. Gallery’s paparazzi can attend your event, provide you with all images on CD for your use, and also promote your event online and in print, all for a small £ charge. paparazzi@gallery.co.im

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Personalized Canvas Prints

Exclusive Christmas Offer We have three exciting photo shoot offers available this Christmas

The fifteen minutes

free family photo shoot *

The half-hour photo shoot:

12’’x16’’ canvas print OR 2 x A4 size photo prints

Price: £60

The one-hour photo shoot:

18‘’x24’’ canvas print OR 4 x A4 size photo prints (or 2x 12’’x16’’)

Price: £100

* Fifteen Minutes Free Photo shoot can be held in our studio between 12.30 - 4.30 p.m. No Booking needed. JUST VISIT US IN OUR CHRISTMAS SHOP There is also the option to buy all the images from your photo shoot at An extra cost

The half-Hour and One-Hour photo shoot can be book between 4.30 - 9.00 p.m.

From 6th to 23th December 2014

MORE OFFERS

GIFT IDEAS

VOUCHERS

CANVAS PERFECT GIFT IDEA

from £25

www.CANVASMANN.com

Email: print@canvasmann.com Tel: 07624 212150

Need a gift for someone but run out of time to make it? Canvas prints are ideal presents. Just pop into the Christmas shop and choose from a selection of local artist artwork.

Landscape photography, Nature, Art, TT riders and more...

visit us in our studio - unit 12 (1 Floor) in The Strand ShoPping Centre

Low cost advertising

AT YOUR SERVICE

The Wine Cellar

Tours Isle of Man

The Wine Cellar is a well established local business, set up 22 years ago in the same location as we are today. We are all passionate about wine and our aim is to have a wide range of good quality wines that offer good value at every price point.

Christmas in Chester 23-27 December, £535 per person with single supplement of £48.

The Wine Cellar Tennis Road Douglas IM2 3QW T: 611793 E: sales@thewinecellar.

Door to Door Service. Please contact us for more information.

Platinum Cars

Hampton Court Flower Show 1-5 July 2015.

T: 822611 E: holidays@tours.co.im www.tours.co.im

SPECIAL CARS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS AND PRIVATE HIRE View our stunning fleet of cars at www.platinumcars.im T: 07624 357498 E: david@platinumcars.im

Get your business included in 2015 From just £48.00 per month We’re a big believer in effective ‘reminder’ advertising at Gallery. For a small business, a whole year of communication means that customers have your details at all times.

corporate presentation or to present individual brands stocked by your business. We’ll be trying to gather places that sell the nicest bits, bobs, stuff and desirable items for the home and office.

AT YOUR SERVICE is designed to allow advertisers a low cost, long term communication solution. It can be used to show an individual

So we thought we’d give select businesses the ability to tell our readers all about their services in our monthly Gallery AT YOUR SERVICE page.

ED T

IL A BR BL E 20 U A 15 RY

GALLERY

GALLERY .......................... .......................... .......................... .......................... ..........................

1S T

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