Gallery IoM July/Aug 2023

#108

THE SUMMER EDITION

A Sustainable Summer?

Sustainable, diverse, inclusive – everybody loves to throw these terms around, claiming it’s their passion, their raison d’etre, and swearing that they wouldn’t cross the road unless it was done in a sustainable, diverse and inclusive way, but actually you only have to leaf through these beautifully curated pages to see that The Isle of Man genuinely does crave a more considered approach to love, life, banking and everything else in between.

PUBLISHER

STEVE REDFORD steve@gallery.co.im

ADVERTISING & SALES

01629 619540

07624 249249 sales@gallery.co.im

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

221 MEDIA design@gallery.co.im

ENQUIRIES/SUBMISSION info@gallery.co.im

DISTRIBUTION

everyone@gallery.co.im

ACCOUNTS

laura@gallery.co.im

This summer a simpler life awaits our community, a pared back, fresher and more honest summer that harks back to the good old days when people were content with chasing wooden fish (see page 20 for details on this fabulous family event) and occasionally glanced up from their phones to do their banking or find the loves of their lives! The dating world may no longer be an organic process but people still want connections not algorithms, see our feature on page 15, which highlights the role of the match maker and advocates a, ‘safe dating space.’ It turns out that people also still want to see the whites of the eyes of their bank manager and the Santander work cafe has made that possible (pg 22).

The other main events to consider are food, drinks and shelter and yes we have all the answers here, as per usual! You have to visit the Corhenny Shelter (page 12) which has an, open-front design, ‘that echoes the forest that surrounds it,’ and provides, ‘the perfect place to pause.’ The Winedown offers its own take on contemplation with sustainable green wine solutions for you to enjoy and flick to page 17 where Martin Malone advises us not to soak this up with a packet of salty crisps but an electrolyte supplement – yum. If you prefer something more energetic and did want to stretch your legs or perhaps take a trip in a tin bath then check out the sporting rundown on page 18.

Have a great summer!

SR

/ ISLAND LIFE & STYLE

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, although the new cover colour is called ’penguin white’. Tag us in your pictures at @galleryisleofman and #gallerysmallprint and we’ll give you something.....

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 you move or find that they’re taking up too much space, put them out in the recycling bins. If you want to find out more about recycling, call 01628 686540. We put this in a green font. It’s not made out of leaves, honest.

Cover Image

Photographer Danny Evans Model Grace

28 Polo in The Park 2023

18

An Action-Packed Summer

MBCSG Pink Fizz Trian

KPMG - Making An Impact

Paparazzi

WLTM - Isle of Man

56

20

RL360 AT TT 2023

32

Summer Fashion

Manx Rally 2023

Art Fest 2023

Dating App

14

With the government’s stated aim of increasing the number of ‘economically active’ residents, it’s no surprise that some enterprising Islanders are investigating ways to enliven their stays here, or even encourage them to put down real roots. Yes, we’re talking about dating apps and matchmaking.

The Truth About Salt

16

By studying the facts, a little closer, you will see that salt is not the ‘bad guy’ it’s made out to be!

Art Fest 2023

20

The Island’s Creative Network is staging the IOM Art Festival over three weekends this month and once again local artists are out in force, opening their own studios, grouping together to stage exhibitions and with a mini-trail of fabulous fish to find in Silverdale Glen to excite children of all ages.

Polo In The Park 2023

28

On sunday, the 21st of May, 2023, Ramsey Crookall hosted its private annual Polo in the Park event at the beautiful Ballacooiley Equestrian Estate in Ballaugh.

MBCSG Pink Fizz Train

34

The Manx Breast Cancer Support Group was really pleased to hold its first Pink Train of the year, which was both a sell out and a fantastic success!

If you would like events added to the What’s On section, email events@gallery.co.im

Now

- 29.07.2023

Now

- 15-16.07.23

15.07.23

ANGEL FIELDS

A collection of evocative abstract land- and seascapes from internationally acclaimed artist Gary Bennett is, he says, inspired by the natural wold around, within and beyond.

Hodgson Loom Gallery, Laxey 01624 861395 www.facebook.com/hodgsonloomgallery

15-22.07.23

PEEL SECRET GARDENS

After a gap of five years, Peel Secret Gardens is back with a number of gardens around the town open to show off their beauty and their owners’ skills and gardening passions with many serving refreshments.

Peel www.facebook.com/PeelHeritageTrust

15.07.23

GRANDAD AND THE PIER

Grandad and The Pier’ is a wind-swept, teasoaked, heart-warming film about community, hope and leaving a legacy beyond our years. UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man is hosting this special screening, with all proceeds going to the Queens Pier Restoration Trust.

Manx Museum, Douglas 01624 648000

www.manxnationalheritage.im

18.07.23

THE FULL MONTY

The Full Monty is a story full of heart. Right to the end, audiences will be wondering if these lovable misfits will really pull it off. With a raucous mix of razor-sharp humour and toetapping pizzazz, this heart-warming, upbeat comedy is a must.

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

22.07.23

FODENS BAND

Around the world Foden’s Band is a trademark that musicians associate with inestimable class and musicianship. Manx Youth Band & Manx Concert Brass are pleased welcome reigning National Champions, Foden’s Band, back to the Villa Marina for a concert sponsored by Patricia Wild Opticians.

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

25.07.2023

ABBA REUNION TRIBUTE

SHOW

ABBA REUNION gives Abba fans old and new, the opportunity to once again get together and re-live the addictive Abba phenomena that swept the airwaves and discos during the 70’s and 80’s. The ABBA REUNION tribute Show stars the original ‘Frida’ from the London West End cast.

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555

www.villagaiety.com

27-30.07.23

TRUMAN FALLS & JEFF JEPSON

The popular local musicians and songwriters join forces at the Laxey Institute to showcase their undoubted talents. Jeff will not only be playing his own set, but also join forces with Truman Falls in the second half of the gig.

Laxey Institute, New Road, Laxey www.theinstitute.im

VIKING LONGBOAT RACES

The 60th Anniversary Viking Longboat Races gets away at 12.30pm with around 70 teams competing against the clock in replica longboats and can be viewed from Peel Harbour and Quayside. The Viking Longboats are just part of the Peel Traditional Boat weekend (20-22 July), which celebrates traditional boats of all types and sizes.

Peel www.facebook.com/PeelVikingLongboats

CELTIC GATHERING ISLE OF MAN –YN CHRUINNAGHT

Yn Chruinnaght is an annual festival held in Peel and Douglas celebrating Celtic culture and the connection the Island has with other Celtic countries. This year’s event includes concerts featuring Dervish, Katine Polwart & Dave Milligan, Trip, Rachel Hair & Ruth Keggin.

Peel & Douglas

www.ynchruinnaght.com

27.07.23

YOUNG STARS OF MANN

A celebration of young people pursuing their passions. Compèred by well-known performer Jack Divers, the evening showcases some of the Island’s most talented young performers, including the Young Actor of Mann, Young Singer of Mann, the Manx Youth Bard, Guild Winners the Manx Youth Band.

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555

www.villagaiety.com

02-12.08.23

If you would like events added to the What’s On section, email events@gallery.co.im

29-30.07.23

29-30.07.23

KINY BOOTS

Taylorian Productions presents Kinky Boots the Musical. Based on the 2005 film, and with music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper, the story is inspired by true events. This is a familyfriendly show.

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555

www.villagaiety.com

05.08.23

SOUTHERN SHOW

A fun filled day out for all the family with entertainment all day long in the Jacksons & Motor Mall main ring including gymnastics, Dancing Dogs, Hunting Dog Demonstration, and a sheep dog demonstration. There are opportunities to meet the livestock, see local farmers showing off their best and local equestrians competing to win the top prizes.

Orrisdale Farm, Ballasalla https://southernshow.org/

04.08.23

ROMEO & JULIET

The American Drama Group Europe

Shakespeare Castle Tour returns to the Isle of Man for 2023 with the performance of Romeo and Juliet beginning with Peel Castle on Saturday 29th July and Castle Rushen the following day.

Peel & Castle Rushen 01624 648000

www.manxnationalheritage.im

05-20.08.23

BON GIOVI

Bon Giovi, the world’s number 1 tribute to the New Jersey rockers Bon Jovi, will be returning to the Isle of Man after rocking the roof off the Villa last year - and year’s show is going to be even bigger and better, possibly even better than the real thing!

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

OK! COMPUTER

The Island’s very own tribute to Radiohead – is playing again for the first time since 2020. With a brand new line up, they will be performing tracks from Pablo Honey right through to Moon Shaped Pool. Superbly supported by The Getaways.

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

06.08.23

IOM ART FESTIVAL

Three weekends of visual art from the Creative Network’s members including open studios, group exhibitions and the family friendly Herring Hunt along the Silverburn Art Trail in Silverdale Glen.

Island Wide

www.creativenetwork.im/art-festival-2023

08.08.23

SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE GAIETY

Taylorian Productions presents Sunday Night at the Gaiety, with some of the Island’s wellknown performers singing songs from the most loved musicals in the West End.

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

BONEY M FEATURING MAIZIE WILLIAMS

Boney M, one of the bestselling artists of all time with more than 150 million records sold worldwide including, amongst others, Daddy Cool, Rasputin, Ma Baker and Rivers of Babylon / Mary’s Boy Child, the second highest-selling single in the UK.

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

If you would like events added to the What’s On section, email events@gallery.co.im WHAT’S

10.08.23

ON

11-12.08.23

20-28.08.23

BOOTLEG BEATLES

Billed as the world’s most successful and longest running tribute band ever, The Bootleg Beatles have been touring longer than The Beatles ever did!

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555

www.villagaiety.com

21.08.23

ROYAL MANX SHOW

One of the highlights in the rural calendar, the Royal Manx Agricultural Show is a fantastic two days out for all the family as well as the culmination of months of hard work from show participants as they compete to win the Deemster Johnson Supreme Championship Award, the ultimate prize for exhibitors, awarded to the best animal in the Show.

Knockaloe, Patrick https://royalmanx.com/

25.08.23

MANX GRAND PRIX

As the event marks its centenary, the 2023 Manx Grand Prix will bring with it an additional program of special events that will both pay tribute to the event’s long-established history and celebrate the future successes yet to come.

Island Wide

www.manxgrandprix.co.uk/

26.08.23

HUMAN LEAGUE

Formed in the late 1970s by Sheffield-based computer programmers Ian Craig Marsh and Martyn Ware. The Human League evolved into one of the seminal ‘80s electro pop bands. Fronted by former hospital porter, Philip Oakey, and featuring Susan Ann Sulley and Joanne Catherall.

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555

www.villagaiety.com

30.08.23

DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS?

Theatres are alive. They all have stories to tell when the lights go out. And they all have a theatre ghost. Do you believe in ghosts? Is a brand-new concept: a haunting night at the theatre. An original play unlike anything you have seen, or experienced, before - a new way of ghost storytelling!

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

30.08-30.09.23

RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC

The Manx Breast Cancer Support Group are really pleased to be bringing Rumours of Fleetwood Mac back to the Island. All money raised stays on the Island and helps fund Specialist Equipment for the Manx Breast Unit.

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

31.08-01.09.23

ALFIE BOE

Alfie Boe has forged a reputation as being one of the best classical crossover tenors from the UK. He has achieved two Number 1 albums, four in the UK Top Tens, and amassed multimillion, multi-platinum record sales.

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

ART IS GOOD FOR YOU

The opening exhibition from this new gallery and art shop in Ramsey includes work from a full range of local artists, some well-known, others just starting out.

Pink Seaweed, Ramsey www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092685259775

RUSSELL HOWARD: LIVE

Russell Howard, “one of the world’s top comedians” (Sunday Times) is back for a brand new live tour of the UK and as we reel from one global crisis to the next, join Russell, ‘the uplifting Comedy King’, as he puts the world to rights in his own uniquely hilarious way.

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

New creative shelter celebrates Biosphere

‘Working together for a sustainable future’ is the message of UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man, so what better than a collaborative project to create something that everyone can enjoy!

The Conrhenny Shelter - Kemmyrk Choan Rhennee – can be found within Conrhenny Community Woodland, and provides a space to connect with the biodiversity all around us whilst celebrating the value of arts and culture within the natural environment.

The shelter started with an invitation in 2019 to celebrate arts and culture as fundamental to our wellbeing and sense of place within our Biosphere. The stunning winning design, chosen by a panel of judges, comes from architects Betty Laurincova and Michal Kotvan, and boasts spectacular views out over Douglas.

Betty Laurincova, said: “The environment was in focus during the design and construction phase. We used locally and sustainably sourced timber cut to exact measurements by DEFA’s St. Johns Sawmill, and ground screws to preserve the existing terrain as much as possible. Pioneer Carpentry and Construction did an outstanding job putting together the puzzle pieces of this unique structure.”

The open-front design of the shelter echoes the forest that surrounds it, providing the perfect place to pause and contemplate your surroundings. Conrhenny is popular not only with visitors including walkers and cyclists, but with families, too, so the design incorporates a viewing platform and a bench to sit on, and a game for younger visitors to play. Search for the North Star on the dome, and for five wooden creatures and their houses hidden in the forest around! The wonderful animal and star sculptures have been made by Henry Neville Wood.

Short film: https://culturevannin.im/watchlisten/videos/celebrating-creativity-theunesco-biosphere-isle-of-man-conrhenny-shelter-777401/

Isle of Man Swimming Team Makes a Splash with Exciting New Sponsorship from Synapse360 & Utmost International Ahead of Island Games!

Synapse360 an Isle of Man-based IT Managed Services Company and Utmost International are proud to announce their collaborative sponsorship of the Isle of Man Swimming Team at the upcoming 2023 Island Games.

As part of its sponsorship, Synapse360 and Utmost International, will provide the Isle of Man Swimming Team with financial support to cover the costs of their travel and accommodation expenses, as well as team uniforms. The companies’ combined contribution and support will also help ensure that the Isle of Man Swimming Team can compete at the highest level possible and showcase their skills to a global audience.

The NatWest International Island Games will be held in Guernsey from July 8th to 14th, 2023, and will bring together athletes from 24 small island communities around the world to compete in a variety of sports. The Isle of Man Swimming Team has a strong tradition of success at the games and Synapse360 and Utmost International are thrilled to be supporting them in their pursuit of further victories at this highly anticipated event.

Mike Foy, Lauren Dennett, Jack Burgess and Steve Douglas

Green Wines

Sustainable, organic, biodynamic? It’s all very confusing when you are looking to purchase a bottle of wine and it’s labelled with one of the above. What is the difference?

The terms all show you that effort has been made by the winery to maintain healthy soils to allow future generations to continue to produce good wines.

Sustainable wines aim to have a winemaking process that protects the environment, supports social responsibility, maintains economic feasibility, and produces high quality wines. As grapes are grown, harvested, and made into wine, a multitude of environmental factors are prioritised. This includes everything from maintaining biodiversity on vineyards to ensure soil health, to implementing recycling measures that conserve water as grapes are growing, to utilising renewable energy technology like solar, as wine is being produced.

When you purchase a bottle of wine marked with a sustainability certification, you know that your wine was made with the environment, social responsibility, economic viability, and high quality in mind. Unless otherwise stated, your sustainable wine is likely not to be made with 100% organically grown ingredients.

Many vineyards that are use sustainable methods are not labelled as organic even if they farm organically.

If your direct neighbouring vineyards are not certified as organic, a winery cannot go through the transition to become certified as organic or biodynamic. Synthetic pesticides or fungicides could spread to the ‘organic’

vineyard. A winery that farms organically but has close neighbours that don’t is likely to declare on the label that the wines are produced sustainably. This will tell you that good practice is used, despite not being labelled as organic.

Organic means that your wine does not at any point during the winemaking process contain synthetic fertilisers, pesticides or other chemicals.

Other wineries are happy to use organic practices but do not feel the need to spend money on conversion. They would rather use the money it would take to make improvements to their existing operation. Like organic wines, biodynamic wines contain no chemicals and additives throughout the winemaking process. As grapes grow, they are free of any synthetic fertilisers, pesticides and chemicals. Biodynamic wines differ from organic wines in that they take the entire ecosystem into consideration as grapes are grown. To be certified under Demeter, vineyards must maintain exceptional soil health and vintners time their planting schedules with lunar cycles to ensure the best agricultural health. Everything that is grown on the estate remains there. Food for the cattle that do the work in the vineyard is grown on the property, the cattle produce the fertiliser that is used in the vineyards and so the property is self sufficient and giving everything it produces back to the earth.

If you buy a wine bearing a biodynamic certification, you know that your wine has been made with 100% organically grown fruit and that the entire ecosystem, from the soil to the moon, was factored into the winemaking process.

Tikves winery in the Republic of North Macedonia has been making wine since 1885 and use sustainable practices throughout its vineyards. The conditions are perfect for winemaking with a continental climate and lakes and rivers providing sufficient water. All grapes are harvested by hand and great effort is made to produce fruit forward, great value wines. There is a winemaking team of twelve who travel the world every year to visit other countries to add to their winemaking skills.

Pinord was the first winery in Spain to be certified biodynamic by Demeter in 2007. From the beginning, one of the goals of the winery was to leave the land in a better condition that they got it, and this was the reason behind working towards becoming certified biodynamic.

They protect and preserve bats along with the World Nature Foundation. These mammals are great allies in controlling pests in the vineyards and help to enable biodynamic and organic practices.

The Pinord 7 Priorat red is an unusual blend of Cabernet, Syrah and Garnacha. All the grapes are harvested by hand with careful selection to ensure only very healthy grapes are used. Each variety is harvested at optimum ripeness and vinified separately before being blended and spending a year in French oak allowing the flavours to harmonise and the tannins to soften. It is a wine with immense structure and balance and is a true reflection of the terroir of this stunning region in northern Spain.

24 Duke St, Douglas T: 624777 www.winedown.im

“WLTM: that special someone for dinner, friendship, life”

With the government’s stated aim of increasing the number of ‘economically active’ residents, it’s no surprise that some enterprising Islanders are investigating ways to enliven their stays here, or even encourage them to put down real roots. Yes, we’re talking about dating apps and matchmaking.

According to cloudwards.net, in 2022 there were 366 million users of dating apps worldwide but with online dating still suffering from a ‘quick hook-up’ reputation, you might be surprised to know that as many as 74% are looking for a real commitment and that nearly 14% of online matches end in marriage. And although less romantically, 20% of these will end in divorce before their 10th anniversary, you’d still be better off than those couples who met through work, where it’s 24%.

But statistics don’t tell the whole dating story, and that’s where The Library and Queen of Hearts come in. We’ve all heard that it’s impossible to meet ‘the one’ on an Island when you think you already know everyone, or even like all these new ‘economically active’ residents, you really don’t know anyone! Perhaps you’re too shy to hang around in bars ‘just in case’ or anxious about logging on to an app to find the usual suspects popping up, with the possibility that you know their sisters, husbands, or worse, their children.

The Library is the local dating app which ‘rejects the fallacy that looks are all that matter and instead focuses on all the stuff that really does: thoughts, values, ideas, beliefs, passions, loves’. At least, that’s the idea. I asked founder Ollie Mitchell how this works:

“At no point do we ask members to post pictures,” he says. “The saying, don’t judge a book by its cover, is just as valid when considering a prospective partner – looks aren’t everything. In The Library we tease information out of our members, to make them think and know that their possible connections have also thought about their answers. To do this we have what we call ‘ORs’,” Ollie continues, “would you prefer a beach holiday OR a city break? Stephen Fry OR Stephen King? 90s Indie, OR 90s Dance? There’s a new ‘OR’ every day and once you’re a Library member you can answer as many of these as you like and choose to connect with other people who think the same way, or whose answers interest you.”

So far, so uncontroversial, but I thought I’d ask a couple of The Library members: “I liked the ‘no photo’ idea at first,” said Jane (not her real name), “but once I’d started an online ‘connection’ I wanted to know who I was chatting to. And most importantly wanted to know that it wasn’t my best friend’s husband or just as bad, my boss!”

Juan (also not his real name) was more positive: “I like the fact that The Library is very transparent with clear guidelines which encourage members to be kind and truthful. And the more ‘OR’ questions you answer the more likely you are to be able to weed out those who’re being less than honest. I haven’t found that special someone yet, but you never know!”

Ollie obviously agrees: “The Library gender ratio is currently 55% women, 45% men and we don’t discriminate against those looking for samesex relationships. We also don’t, and won’t, vet members’ marital status, we can only trust people to join with the right intentions,” he continues. “Our privacy features include limited personal information and no photos, and if we removed these it would start to impinge on the core things

Words: Suzy Holland Images: Lisa Petrie, Ollie Mitchell

we are trying to achieve - using words and communication to nurture slow friendships and, maybe romance. And The Library has had its first marriage proposal, so I’d call this success!”

You can’t talk about dating apps without mentioning Tinder which remains the most popular, particularly with 18-25 year olds. Its founder, Faye Iosotaluno, said recently that the demographic has shifted, with the LGBTQ+ community now one of the largest and fastest-growing segments with what she says is a more open-minded approach to ‘hooking-up’, which isn’t always sexual. And if you want more fluid, ‘out there’ experiences there is always Feeld, which the polyamorous couple who set it up say they did so to explore threesomes.

I couldn’t find anyone on the Island who’d used Feeld – I obviously don’t know the right people - but several pointed me towards Queen of Hearts, not an app but a more traditional match-making service, set up 18 months ago by hairdresser Lisa Petrie. “During Covid it became obvious that there were people out there suffering alone, often even physically unwell,” she says. “I’d already informally successfully matched some friends so I started to look into becoming a registered matchmaker and gained a distinction in Relationship Psychology.” And she obviously has the match-making knack as the Queen of Hearts Facebook page is full of glowing endorsements and one couple, she says, has just started house-hunting together.

“My clients range in age from 25 to 85, but the majority are in their 40s or 50s and when faced with starting to date again, sometimes for the first time in many years, they don’t want to risk online dating, where you don’t really know who you are meeting, they could be married (which often happens) or their photos could be from 10 years ago or very heavily filtered. I meet all my clients in person so everyone who signs up knows that any prospective dates have been heavily vetted by me, and I go on to provide support throughout the process. Queen of Hearts is,” Lisa says proudly, “a safe dating space.”

In the name of research for this feature I asked friends about their experiences many of which were funny, sad or downright bad: “Went for dinner, got a call to say a friend had died, and my date accused me of making that up as an excuse to leave. But it was true, my friend was dead.”

A UK friend who refused to name their source contributed this simple, clichéd, but apparently true story: “A man. Worked in politics. Wanted to be called Daddy.”

And from the days before smart phones, a success story from the now defunct Guardian Soulmates. A friend of a friend met her husband there, “although she laughs now that she probably wouldn’t have answered his ad if he’d included that he worked for the Daily Mail!”

But back on the Island, one slightly jaded friend said that if the Government is serious about bringing economically active people to the Island, “please can it also add ‘older, healthy, financially secure, no criminal convictions, no drugs and definitely no baggage’ to its wishlist.”

The Library Dating Service is on Facebook and Twitter as @ TheLibraryDates and also at www.thelibrary. im. Following its success in the Isle of Man, The Library is soon to launch in the UK.

You can also find more details about Queen of Hearts IOM on Facebook and at her new website www. queenofheartsiom.com And for all other dating apps, there’s always Google.

INDIAN, SEAFOOD, VEGETARIAN & VEGAN

The Truth About Salt

Now that the summer months are here and the days are warmer, we tend to sweat more, so staying hydrated is important, particularly if you exercise regularly. You stay hydrated by ensuring you drink enough fluid but salt (made up of sodium and chloride) also plays a critical role in keeping you hydrated and is an essential mineral that your body needs to stay healthy and function properly.

For many years salt has been demonised as being one of the biggest contributors to heart disease because it increases your blood pressure. This is partly true but widely misinterpreted and is causing more healthy people to reduce their salt intake to unhealthy levels and in some cases, remove it from their diet completely. We lose salt through sweating and urination, so it must be replaced. In severe cases, low salt levels can lead to muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting and dizziness. Eventually, lack of salt can lead to shock, coma and even death, therefore it’s important to understand the role that salt plays in keeping your body healthy.

By studying the facts, a little closer, you will see that salt is not the ‘bad guy’ it’s made out to be!

High blood pressure or hypertension is a complex health condition which is not caused by excess salt alone. It is caused by many additional factors such as lack of exercise, obesity, poor nutrition, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, genetics and age. However, if you already have high blood pressure, excess salt can make it worse, and unfortunately that’s where the misadvise about reducing your salt intake has come from. As with many things, the devil is in the detail. A healthy adult, consuming the right amount of salt daily, will not develop high blood pressure due to their salt intake alone, in fact they will be healthier than someone eating too little salt.

For example, one study in the Journal of Hypertension showed that in over 6,000 subjects, reducing salt intake made no

difference to the risk of heart disease in people with normal blood pressure.

So why has salt been labelled the ‘bad guy’ if it’s essential for health and survival?

Let me explain – The sodium and water balance in your body are precisely regulated by hormones. The total amount of sodium in your body affects the amount of fluid in your blood (blood volume) and around your cells. Your body continually monitors blood volume and sodium concentration and when either becomes too high, sensors around the body detect the increases and stimulate the kidneys to increase sodium excretion, thus returning blood volume to normal.

When your blood volume or sodium concentration becomes too low, the same sensors trigger the release of hormones to increase blood volume by retaining sodium and maintain the equilibrium

between sodium and water. So if you regularly eat an excess amount of salt, the higher sodium levels causes fluid retention and increases your blood pressure. So, if you already have high blood pressure, and you eat too much salt each day, it will make it worse. High blood pressure can damage your kidneys and vascular system which can then contribute to kidney and heart disease. If you have high blood pressure and your GP tells you to reduce your salt intake, then that’s very good advice that you should follow.

SO WHAT ROLE DOES SALT PLAY IN THE BODY?

Salt is typically made up of 40% sodium and 60% chloride. Both are two of the most important and essential electrolytes in keeping your body functioning properly.Sodium facilitates the transmission of nerve impulses in your body and regulates the electrical charges in and out of your cells so that vital minerals can be passed in and out of each cell. Sodium helps control taste and smell and helps your muscles contract, with the most important muscle being your heart. Sodium also plays a role in maintaining normal blood pressure and blood volume.

The chloride part of salt is essential in the digestion process. It is used in the production hydrochloric acid in the stomach which is essential for digestion. It also preserves the acid balance throughout the body and helps to carry carbon dioxide from working tissues and muscles to the lungs.

SO HOW MUCH SALT DO YOU NEED EACH DAY?

The NHS recommend no more than the following:

• 11 years and over - 6g

• 7 to 10 years old - 5g

• 4 to 6 years old – 3g

• 1 to 3 years old – 2g

Under 1 year old – 1g. Note, babies and infants should not have much salt as their kidneys are not yet fully developed and cannot process it.

Although the above are the normal healthy guidelines issued by the NHS, many of us are consuming far more than this due to the over consumption of unhealthy processed foods. Without realising it, you could easily consume 3 times the daily recommended amount through the consumption of salt hidden in processed foods. The best way to avoid too much salt is to eat un-processed whole foods where you add the salt yourself.

Assuming you are eating the right amount of salt, don’t forget you may need a little extra on a hot day where you tend to sweat more, or if you have been exercising and sweating a lot. There are now many electrolyte supplements on the market for this very purpose that contain salt. These products can be very useful, especially during exercise but if you have been sweating a lot, a good pinch of salt in a glass of water is just as good.

Now that you know how important salt is, don’t avoid it, just consume a healthy amount.

High blood pressure can damage your kidneys and vascular system which can then contribute to kidney and heart disease.

AN ACTION-PACKED SUMMER on the Isle of Man

Summer is the most exciting time of the year to be on the Isle of Man with various social and cultural events held throughout June, July, and August! You can almost guarantee that there will be something fun to do for everyone. IFGL and its principal brands, Ardan International, Friends Provident International and RL360, are proud to call the Isle of Man our home and are pleased to help support a number of events across the Island this summer:

KPMG Prom Relay

Friday 7 July 2023

The KPMG Prom Relay is a popular annual event that takes place on Douglas Promenade. Teams of up to 4 people or aspiring solo runners compete in a 5k dash to raise money for charity. Last year, over 200 runners took part and raised £11,600 for Project 21 (five local charities working together to support people with learning difficulties). The chosen charity for this year’s event is Live at Home, which provides support for the elderly people on the Island who live in isolation. As well as being a sponsor of the run, a number of IFGL’s staff will be taking part in this year’s run. Come and show your support for the event by entering a team or simply cheering on from the sidelines!

The Manx Telecom Parish Walk

Saturday 24 June 2023

The Island’s largest mass-participation event is undoubtedly The Manx Telecom Parish Walk, attracting over a thousand competitors each year to walk along the gruelling 85 mile course. The event is a testament to the Island’s close-knit community as family, friends and spectators gather at different points of the course to rally on the walkers. The Parish Walk, unfortunately, also has a huge environmental impact due to the number of support cars travelling during the event and the various food and drink stations dotted around the course.

In 2022, IFGL became the official sustainability partner of the Parish Walk to help reduce the level of waste and pollution that occurs on the day. Last year, we placed several recycling and waste bins on the course and managed to reduce the amount of rubbish from 2.42 tonnes (from the 2021 Parish Walk) to 360kg! We hope to see a similar result in this year’s event which marks the second year of our three-year partnership.

World Tin Bath Championships

Saturday 8 July 2023

The Tin Bath Championships has been a quirky and much loved part of Manx history since the first races were held back in 1971. Organised by the Castletown Ale Drinkers Society, hundreds of competitors attempt to paddle their way to victory in makeshift (but safety-regulated) tin baths in Castletown Harbour.

IFGL will be working alongside Manx Radio, the World Tin Bath Championships’ official broadcasting partner, to support the event. This is one day out that will be filled with laughter and beer and all the proceeds raised on the day will be divided amongst several local charities.

Southern 100 Races

Monday 10 to Thursday 13 July 2023

IFGL has had a long-running association with motorcycling. RL360 has been the title sponsor of the TT Superstock race for the past 21 years. Friends Provident International was a previous sponsor of the Southern 100 races. The motorcycling fever starts with the TT Races in early June and continues on when the classic Southern 100 races take place on the Billown Circuit. A vital part of the Isle of Man’s culture, the races have been running for over 65 years and gives motorsports fans a chance to catch another glimpse of famous riders such as Dean Harrison, Davey Todd and Michael Dunlop in action.

Port Erin Beach Festival

Friday 14 to Sunday 16 July 2023

As part of our ongoing media partnership with Manx Radio, IFGL will also be supporting this year’s Port Erin Beach Festival. The 2 day event takes place on one of the Island’s best beaches and is a celebration of its thriving marine wildlife. Local food and drink stalls line up along the promenade whilst fun activities such as sandcastle building competitions, dog shows and live music take place on the beach. You’ll also have the chance to interact with peculiar sea creatures (sea urchins, starfish, sea hares etc) by visiting the Manx Wildlife Trust’s Mega Tanks!

The Viking Longboat Races

Saturday 22 July 2023

IFGL and RL360 have been proud sponsors of The Viking Longboat Races for over 20 years and will once again be supporting this year’s event when it returns to Peel Harbour for its 60th anniversary. The competition attracts hundreds of competitors from all over the Island who, in teams of 10, race against each other in full-sized viking longboats to claim the fastest lap around Peel Harbour. There are cash prizes on offer for the winning teams and runners up in each of the three categories: Men’s, Ladies and Mixed. It truly is a test of physical strength and teamwork whilst also being a fun day out!

Yn Chruinnaght Celtic Festival

Monday 24 to Sunday 30 July 2023

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Manx culture then Yn Chruinnaght is the place to be. The festival takes place in Douglas and Peel and celebrates the Island’s connection with other Celtic nations, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, Cornwall and Brittany, through live traditional music, arts and crafts and cookery sessions. You can even join in on the traditional Mega Manx Ceili at the Villa Marina, don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the dance because you can learn on the night with professional caller Gráinne Joughin!

Royal Manx Agricultural Show

Friday 11 to Saturday 12 August 2023

The IFGL Manx Radio partnership will also be in evidence at the biggest agricultural event on the Island this year, The Royal Manx Agricultural Show! Every year, members of the Isle of Man Agricultural Society and a number of volunteers come together to hold the event at Knockaloe Beg Farm. The show offers a wide selection of local food and drink stalls as well as fabulous livestock displays over the two days, tickets are only £8 for either Friday or Saturday and it’s free entry for children under 16. Don’t miss out on this perfect family outing and show your support for the Island’s farming community!

If it’s August it must be Art Fest!

Yes, the Island’s Creative Network is staging the IOM Art Festival over three weekends this month and once again local artists are out in force, opening their own studios, grouping together to stage exhibitions and with a mini-trail of fabulous fish to find in Silverdale Glen to excite children of all ages. But don’t forget to look up, they aren’t all in obvious fish-friendly places.

First, the practicalities. The first weekend is on 5 and 6 August when all arty activity will focus on the South of the Island, mainly based in Castletown, Ballasalla, Grenaby and of course the Silverburn Art Trail (which loosely follows the Bayr ny Skeddan between Castletown and Ballasalla). The temporary Silverdale Herring Hunt will be installed ready for families to go fish finding in Silverdale Glen but if you fancy a longer walk, follow the new ceramic herring way markers by Jo Lewy, which are dotted along the Bayr ny Skeddon (Herring Way) between Castletown and Ballasalla. These are permanent ceramic sculptures which will mark the entire route of the Silverburn Art Trail, which continues to be populated with both permanent and temporary artworks thanks to support from the Isle of

Man Lottery Community Fund and a grant towards an education programme from The IOM Arts Council. The 2023 Herring Hunt, fabulous, fantastic plywood herring shapes decorated by a variety of Creative Network artists, will be displayed all summer – much like Steve Chell’s beetles, which drew hundreds of families to the Glen last year. And like the beetles there will be a dedicated Facebook page www.facebook.com/ SilverdaleHerringHunt with a downloadable pdf with images of the fish to find.

Also down South, Ballasalla Church Hall is a new venue for the Festival. The names of artists exhibiting there are a closely guarded secret, but a little bird tells me the ‘Talking Textiles’ group, which includes renowned textile artist Maureen Kennaugh might be involved.

And you can’t visit the South of the Island without popping into Grenaby Studios. Permanent artists’ studios and workshops there include Jo Lewy Ceramics – creator of the herring way markers in Silverdale Glen - Isle Be Creative (Debra Tracey-Carney), Grenabee (Rosie Glassey), Artforms from Nature (Graham Hall), Rosie Wood, Graham Rider and new member of the artist group, Ali Foster.

The following weekend (12, 13 August) the Art Festival moves to the centre of the Island – which includes Peel. The House of Manannan foyer will host a mixed exhibition, and Myra Gilbert’s studio on East Quay, Peel will be open throughout the weekend – I can highly recommend a close look at her amazing handmade, hand-painted dresses. She also hopes to have some prints of

Words Suzy Holland Images: Carola Rush, Helen Fox, Creative Network

previously unseen work by her late husband, Eric Glithero. She describes these images as ‘vibrant, multicolour, and bold’.

Other open studios in the East/Central region include a first look at Helen Fox’s studio in Kirk Michael and, as she says, “I am very lucky to be in a position to have a lovely studio space adjacent to my home. It’s full of past work and work produced by my parents both of whom are now sadly deceased. An artist’s studio is the heart of the artist,” Helen continues, “full of interesting sources of inspiration, collections of things, objects, curiosities, works from the past and materials for future work. I have been a lecturer in further and higher education since graduating from the Slade, helping others find their own creative vocation - my studio space is magical and I am looking forward to making time here to concentrate on my own work. It’s a privilege to share it with others as an ‘open studio’ for the Creative Network Art festival.”

Elsewhere Laura Espinosa and Ellie Baker are exhibiting their work at Momma Moon’s Art Studio, Peel and five other local artists are showing their work at Pinewood Studios, near Bishopscourt on the Ramsey side of Kirk Michael.

On 19th and 20th August the Art Festival moves north, to Ramsey and surrounds. Quayle’s Hall on Waterloo Road, Ramsey (conveniently next to the tram station) hosts

a joint exhibition, and a bit further afield artist Rebecca Odessa is opening her new studio for the first time:

“This summer I am working in a beautiful studio by the sea, near the Point of Ayre,” says Rebecca, “and I wanted to open it for this year’s Art Festival so other people can experience the specialness of this location. I am currently doing my Masters in Fine Art through Central Saint Martins, so it will be a great opportunity for people to learn what is involved in higher art education, as well view the work I am producing for my course.” But we mustn’t forget Laxey. The Hodgson Loom Gallery is hosting the Art Fest exhibition from 5 August right though until 16 September and you can be sure curator Julia Ashby Smith will be including an eclectic mix of art from paintings, drawings and mixed media work right though to wood carving and sculpture. An exhibition, like the whole Creative Network Art Festival, definitely not to be missed.

All venues will display festival signage outside and there will be a printed Festival guide available from all Festival venues. But for the most up to date information, a full list of venues, artists and events visit the Creative Network website www. creativenetwork.im/art-festival-2023 You can also find more details about the Art Festival, The Creative Network and participating artists on www.facebook.com/ creativenetworkiom

“This summer I am working in a beautiful studio by the sea, near the Point of Ayre, and I wanted to open it for this year’s Art Festival so other people can experience the specialness of this location.”

Rebecca Odessa

A global concept for a local community

Whether you’re looking for a place to meet or work, somewhere to host an event, or for face-to-face banking services in a vibrant central location, the new Santander Work Café offers something for everyone in the community.

You may have heard of the new Santander Work Café in Douglas. If not, then the next time you visit Market Hall, you will be in for a pleasant surprise. Santander International has worked with Noa to expand its popular café, and following months of restoration, the 120-year-old building on North Quay has a new lease of life.

The Work Café offers free bookable meeting rooms, and accessible co-working spaces with free Wi-Fi, open to everyone, alongside new banking facilities. Santander International customers can also meet banking staff in the building, open and manage accounts and mortgages, and withdraw money using ATMs.

Since the first Santander Work Café opened in Chile in 2016, the concept has become a global phenomenon, with over 100 Work Cafés now operating around the world. The Santander Work Café Isle of Man is the bank’s third Work Café in the British Isles and one of its largest, building on the success of branches in Leeds and Jersey.

The Santander Work Café’s new Director, Natalie Radford, said: “The Work Café is a place where everyone is welcome whether you bank with Santander International or not. Facilities are open to all the community, creating a new, forward-thinking space where people from all generations can meet, work, grab a coffee, or attend an event.”

Face-to-Face banking services

While digital banking is increasingly popular, face-to-face services remain important for many customers and provide a point of contact for transactions such as mortgage applications, business loans, or for resolving more complex issues. The Work Café is a great place to meet relationship managers in a relaxed setting, while bank staff can provide guidance and help customers who may struggle with online or mobile banking platforms.

The Work Café team includes colleagues from Santander International’s Prospect Hill branch which is now closed. Natalie is joined by Andrea Callow, the new Work Café Manager, and Gemma Curtis and Imogen Quirk who have taken on new roles as Work Café Personal Bankers. Natalie said: “For many customers Andrea will be a familiar face as she was previously Branch Manager at Prospect Hill. Along with key mortgage and banking staff, Andrea has moved from Prospect Hill to Market Hall, our new home for Santander International in the

Isle of Man. It’s a wonderful new working environment for staff and should be the first port of call for customers.”

Hosting community events

The Work Café provides new opportunities for networking and collaboration, drawing people from different professions into one dynamic environment. Work Cafés in the British Isles have hosted a wide variety of events, from health and wellbeing seminars to book launches, marketing masterclasses and technology conferences, with charities, individuals, companies, and governmental organisations. Natalie is developing a programme of events for the Isle of Man, offering Work Café facilities to community groups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.

Within a few days of opening, the Work Café hosted its first events, a series of ‘lunch and learn’ sessions with Isle Listen for Mental Health Awareness Week. Natalie Cellamare, a Mental Health Training Manager from Isle Listen, said: “Being in the heart of Douglas the Work Café is accessible with plenty of parking and is near the bus depot. The easy-going vibe in the café was relaxing and we hope to use the Work Café again for celebration days and to connect with the community, helping us raise awareness about mental health and how we can support each other.”

Co-working spaces and meeting rooms

For entrepreneurs and freelancers, flexibility is important when finding somewhere to work or meet. The Work Café offers free bookable meeting rooms, perfect for catching up with clients, and accessible co-working spaces with free Wi-Fi. Meeting rooms are equipped with 40-inch screens which connect directly to Zoom and have HDMI TV cables making it easy to join meetings and collaborate with co-workers anywhere in the world.

The concept is already proving a hit with customers. Damien

Corcoran, CEO of

Grandiose Supermarket and Founding Member of WXO, recently returned to the Isle of Man from Dubai, said: “I needed somewhere to work and have drop-in meetings and the Work Café serves that purpose perfectly. It has a similar feel to co-working spaces I have used overseas and has the benefit of the high-quality coffee and food from Noa. I’m a fan of Noa, so had eaten in Market Hall before the space was reimagined. I knew the food and coffee were extremely good, so returning here to be able to use the space to work was a no brainer.”

To find out more see www.workcafe.im

whether you bank with Santander International or not.

Facilities are open to all…”

Natalie Radford – Director - Santander Work Café

Santander International is the trading name of Santander Financial Services plc, Isle of Man Branch. Santander Financial Services plc is incorporated in England and Wales with number 2338548 and its registered office is 2 Triton Square, Regent’s Place, London NW1 3AN, United Kingdom. Santander Financial Services plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Santander Financial Services plc’s Financial Services Register number is 146003. Santander Financial Services plc, Isle of Man Branch has its principal place of business at 19 - 21 Prospect Hill, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 1ET and is regulated by the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority. www.santanderinternational.co.uk All accounts opened with Santander Financial Services plc, Isle of Man Branch have situs in the Isle of Man and therefore eligible deposits are covered by the Isle of Man Depositors’ Compensation Scheme as set out in the Isle of Man Depositors’ Compensation Scheme Regulations 2010. Full details of the Scheme and banking groups covered are available at the Isle of Man regulator’s website, www.iomfsa.im/consumers, or on request. Santander and the flame logo are registered trademarks. Calls to Santander International are recorded and may be monitored for security and training purposes.

Natalie Radford

Gallery presents the wedding of

Mr and Mrs Smith

The wedding day of Rebecca and Luke Smith on Saturday 17th June 2023

at The Comis Hotel, House of Mannanan and The Forge.

Photography: Lee Notman, Just Lee Photography

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR WEDDING FEATURED, PLEASE CONTACT US ON WEDDINGS@GALLERY.CO.IM

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR WEDDING FEATURED, PLEASE CONTACT US ON WEDDINGS@GALLERY.CO.IM

Gallery presents the wedding of Mr and Mrs Gelling

The wedding day of Elisabeth and Danny Gelling on Saturday 18 June. The Service was held at Douglas Registry and reception at Douglas Golf Club.

Photographer: Steve Babb

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR WEDDING FEATURED, PLEASE CONTACT US ON WEDDINGS@GALLERY.CO.IM

POLO IN THE PARK 2023

Ramsey Crookall Polo in the Park 2023

On Sunday, the 21st of May, 2023, Ramsey Crookall hosted its private annual Polo in the Park event at the beautiful Ballacooiley Equestrian Estate in Ballaugh. The event was attended by the Lieutenant Governor, Lieutenant General Sir John Lorimer and the Chief Minister Hon Alfred Cannan MHK, in addition to over 550 guests, with many lovely classic cars completing the stunning setting. Two teams from the Triskelion Polo Club competed, the first representing Ramsey Crookall and the second representing Complete Plumbing Solutions, with Complete Plumbing Solutions taking victory on the day.

Photography: Jonathan Burton

POLO IN THE PARK 2023

RL360 AT TT 2023

The guests – financial advisers and other key stakeholders –were treated to a great day’s racing on Tuesday, culminating in the exciting RL360 Superstock Race One, which Peter Hickman won by an impressive 23.17 seconds over second placed Michael Dunlop. Dean Harrison took third.

Staff from RL360 hosted a group of guests from around the world at this year’s TT, which marked the 21st anniversary of the international life company’s sponsorship of the TT Superstock.

Photography: Peter Kwiecinski

MBCSG & RAVENSCROFT PINK FIZZ TRAIN

The Manx Breast Cancer Support Group was really pleased to hold its first Pink Train of the year, which was both a sell out and a fantastic success! It’s always great working with Ravenscroft, who generously sponsored the event once again, and this was the first time we worked with Dave Paramor and his great team at the Ticket Hall Restaurant & Cafe. Guests enjoyed Pink Prosecco on the platform before departing to Castletown and enjoying a superb three course meal en route. The weather was gorgeous as were the views! The event raised over £5,000 which will stay on the Island and go towards a mini refurb of the Manx Breast Unit. Thanks also to Colebournes for sponsoring the envelope prize.

Photography: Serena Wood Photography

Ravenscroft Pink Fizz Train

£1,495,000

To arrange a viewing contact Grays Estate Agent T: 678876

www.graysestateagents.com

NARRADALE SULBY, ISLE OF MAN

Narradale West is a spacious detached house encompassing approximately 6,800 square feet and nestled in an elevated position, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and a mesmerising glimpse of the coastline. Privacy takes center stage, making it an ideal haven for those who cherish seclusion.

This charming country residence has been thoughtfully extended and modified to provide spacious family accommodation while maintaining its original cozy charm. You enter the house into a welcoming galleried entrance hall. The ground floor boasts a spacious sitting room that seamlessly connects to the rear garden ideal for entertaining during the summer months, a versatile games room that was once an indoor swimming pool, a sunroom/gym to nurture your well-being, dining room, garden room and a well-equipped kitchen and utility area for convenient living.

Upstairs is design for unwinding and relaxation with 4 double bedrooms (2 en suite) and a family bathroom. The master bedroom has the benefit of a walk-in wardrobe and dressing room. In addition, there is a cinema room which could convert into another ensuite bedroom if required. The cinema room has an external staircase that provides a separate access via the rear garden.

Adding to its allure, a detached garage block with WC accommodates up to four cars, while a lower ground floor workshop/garage provides space for additional vehicles or your projects. Above the garage there is superb facilities.

The property sits in 1.6 acres of mature gardens and paddock grazing, ideal for someone considering 'the good life' accompanied with paved sun terrace and private rear garden ideal for entertaining throughout the seasons.

Supplier of outdoor living products

including the Morso Forno garden ovens and barbeques

A wide range of fire pits and barbeques from £25 to £1000

Log baskets, fragranced candles and fire maintenance products

Kiln dried hardwood in bulk and by the net. Collection or delivery

Solid fuel and wood burning stoves supplied and installed by our in-house team of HETAS registered installers

Over 30 stoves on display in our Ramsey showroom

ECO TOWN HOUSE

No.16 Selborne Road is a unique town house conveniently located to Douglas town centre, local shops and schools. The house has been converted into an eco house having undergone a full renovation, rebuilt from the original shell with the addition of a 2 storey rear extension, and filled with renewable energy tech. On the ground floor there are 2 reception rooms, open plan kitchen/diner with feature Velux windows, and separate WC. Upstairs there are 5 bedrooms (2 en suite) utility room and shower room.

The house runs solely on electric, sourced from an air source heat exchange, solar panels and photovoltaic tubes. Provisions have been made to include a log burning stove. Hot water is stored in a 500L divided pressure buffer vessel that distributes to radiators and underfloor heating. The smart system draws energy from these 3 sources and distributes it cleverly throughout the house to the heating, hot water, and electric sockets, including an electric car charging point. Residual electric is sold into the grid. The vendors are experiencing monthly bills for all running costs of circa £30 per week. A central data hub has also been installed running internet and satellite throughout the property.

£595,000

To arrange a viewing contact

Grays Estate Agency T: 678876 www.graysestateagents.com

Outside there is a small paved front garden and a 3 car covered car port / garage and sitting area at the rear, accessed via a double roller door.

Selborne Road, Douglas, Isle Of Man

Modern Luxury Family Home with Bespoke Log Cabin

24 Royal Park, Ramsey

£459,950

To arrange a viewing contact Garforth Gray Estate Agents T: 667788 www.garforthgray.im

Modern four-bedroom detached family home set on a good-sized plot with beautiful coastal walks on your doorstep. This fine property is situated in a sought-after location within easy reach of Ramsey town centre, Mooragh Promenade and Park, Ramsey Swimming Pool and the local schools.

The spacious light and airy accommodation is complemented by high quality fixtures and fittings and on the ground floor there is a welcoming reception hall with a cloakroom (WC) off, large living room, dining room, dining kitchen with modern fitted kitchen and a utility with matching units. To the first floor there four double bedrooms with the master bedroom benefitting

from a luxury en-suite and there is a luxury family bathroom.

Externally at the front there is a good-sized driveway providing off road parking for 2 cars and access to the integral garage. At the rear of the property there is private low maintenance garden laid to artificial grass with a bespoke log cabin and two patio areas.

CARRIGAN HEAD

Stunning converted coastal property stretching to approximately 3,500 square feet, sympathetically constructed with ecological and sustainable principles running throughout the property, with a feature terrace looking out to Snaefell mountain in the west and uninterpreted views across Laxey harbour and bay to the East.

£1,500,000

To arrange a viewing contact

Deanwood

T: 825995

www.deanwood.im

Sat centrally on a generous and elevated plot, Carrigan Head is enviably located in lower Laxey, ensuring that within easy reach of the property are Laxey Promenade and beach with its beach side cafe, coffee shop and gelato house as well as an Italian restaurant and the impressive and newly extended Shore Hotel, bar and restaurant. Whilst at the heart of lower Laxey, Carrigan Head is tucked away out of site of passers by. The property takes full advantage of this location by offering uninterrupted picture postcard coastal views, from arguably one of the best roof top terraces the Island has to offer.

The original property has undergone a significant redevelopment to generate a modern and contemporary executive family home, with sustainability in mind throughout every step of the improvements that have been introduced. These include cladding substantially all of the property in treated Manx Fir to ensure that minimal maintenance of the outside of the property will be required in the years ahead, with local and natural resources used throughout the property where possible. Heating and hot water energy is supplied by an air source heat pump providing underfloor heating throughout the property. There is the option for an additional fee and relevant permissions to enhance these principles with the addition of a solar roof

Old Laxey Hill, Laxey, IM4 7DA

PHOTOGRAPHY AND STYLING

MODEL

GRACE

DANNY EVANS

BRA BY CHANTELLE £37.75.

TROUSERS BY MUNTHE £255.00

SHOES BY CARVELA

SWIMSUIT

BOOTS

SURFBOARD

SUNGLASSES

OVERSIZED SHIRT BY ESSENTIAL ANTWERP £290

BY SEAFOLLY £72.00

BY STEVE MADDEN

BY CATCH SURF £465

BY CHPOBRAND £25

SWIMSUIT BY SEAFOLLY £72 TROUSERS BY ALIGNE £72, . SUNGLASSES BY CHPOBRAND £25

SWIMSUIT BY PUKAS £60.00

SWIMSHORTS BY PUKAS £60.00

SKATEBOARD BY GLOBE £80

SUNGLASSES BY CHPOBRAND £25.00

JUMPER BY AMERICAN VINTAGE £120

LEATHER SHORTS BY GESTUZ £289

BAG BY STINE GOYA £160.00.

WATCHES BY CASIO £26.00

SUNGLASSES BY CHPOBRAND £25.00

DRESS BY MICHAEL KORS £297

SUNGLASSES BY CHPOBRAND £25

SWIMMING ROBE BY SALTSKIN £100.00

SUNGLASSES BY CHPOBRAND £25.00

Sure celebrated 17 years of Isle of Man TT sponsorship

At Sure, we’re proud to be part of the Isle of Man community, with the 2023 Isle of Man TT finished for another year it marked our 17th year as Official Telecommunications Partner for the races.

Sure first became the Official Telecommunications Partner of the Isle of Man TT in 2007, the centenary year of the event and the same year we launched on the Isle of Man as a mobile services provider, opening both the office and Douglas store. Sure has grown exponentially since then, launching broadband in 2010, fixed line services in 2015 and investing in our own fibre network from 2017. The team has grown from 12 employees to 50 and we’ve continually expanded our range of services, most recently into the ICT and modern workplace space.

Innovation

We continue to use our technological expertise and services as Telecommunications partner to directly support the evolution of the event series. This year saw the implementation of a raft of new technology for the races which included additional safety measures to protect the riders.

Bespoke GPS

Each rider was fitted with a bespoke GPS on their bike, powered by our 4G SIMs, to deliver real-time data from any point around the TT course. The GPS monitored riders and key support vehicles involved with the organisation of the TT and fed location and telemetry back to race control. The initiative was brought in on a trial basis in 2022 to a small number of bikes and was mandatory for this year’s races.

Digital flags

Our 4G network also supported another new race safety initiative: powering the digital flag system. Introduced in 2022 with a small number of flags around the Mountain Course, this year the number of computerised red flags increased to 39. This technology is a failsafe system for race control to be able to call a halt to the races at the push of a button as well as providing other information.

Live streaming

This is the second year that the globally followed races were livestreamed, with Sure continuing to deliver resilient connectivity. This allowed for those around the

course to watch all the live action on their smart phones, and people at home locally and globally to tune in so no one missed out on experiencing the world-famous event.

Spectator support

As sponsors, we were proud to offer TT fans free WiFi throughout the Grandstand and Paddock area to keep everyone up to date with event news, share photos and videos, and check lap times as they were released. The Grandstand accommodates approximately 6,000 people over the course of the TT, including officials, teams, spectators and fans.

We have increased our involvement each year at the TT, enhancing and improving the events with cutting edge technology connecting more people than ever to the races.

Sure is also proud to be the Official Telecommunications Partner for the Manx Grand Prix, taking place on the Isle of Man 20 – 28 August 2023.

Manx Company acquires MT E-Biz Platform

From 1 October, Digital Group will be responsible for the well-known Manx Telecom E-Biz platform which hosts and maintains business websites. Existing customers will experience no disruption to the service, and Adam Horne, Managing Director of Digital Group says that customers will be contacted individually over the next few weeks to welcome them to the DG family.

“The transition will be smooth and seamless,” says Adam, “Digital Group is an Island-based company with over 13 years’ experience in website development, hosting and e-commerce. Manx Telecom is a trusted name,” he continues, “and as at MT, our Douglas based team will deliver a high level of support and service, with opportunities to enhance the existing E-Biz platform.”

Manx-born Adam has over 20 years’ experience in the online sector, and knows that brand loyalty plays a large part in any acquisition. “When the opportunity arose to acquire E-Biz I was very aware that brand awareness often leads to brand loyalty, and didn’t want to rush in and rebrand what is, after all, a successful platform. What we will be doing is discussing with E-Biz clients how we can improve the service, maybe make their websites more ‘mobile friendly’ and attract more traffic. As for existing charges – they will remain the same.”

Adam recognises that Manx Telecom is well-trusted right across its product and service ranges, so knows there is a great deal of pressure on him, and the Digital Group team, to satisfy those loyal E-Biz clients. In addition, his own loyalty to the Island is very clear in the causes and charities he supports.

“Digital Group has sponsored various events over the years” Adam said, “and I get a great deal of satisfaction from giving back to local causes and charities close to my heart.”

As a proud Manxman and Manx speaker Adam recently took on the role of Chairman of Mooinjer Veggey, the educational charity which promotes the knowledge and use of Manx Gaelic among young people. He is also a volunteer for Wish

Upon a Dream, an IOM non-profit which makes wishes come true for seriously and terminally ill children.

And in his work life, Adam is very excited about the E-Biz acquisition. “This is a great opportunity to take over a service which Manx Telecom no longer sees as part of its core business and to offer an ongoing commitment to delivering high levels of support. Something that existing Digital Group clients already know we can provide.”

Adam Horne

Making an IMPACT at KPMG

A year has passed since KPMG in the Crown Dependencies launched its local IMPACT plan, leveraging the global IMPACT plan and commitments (such as net zero by 2030) but also tailoring the activities to the firm’s communities and setting its own local ambitious plans to achieve the wider global goals. Now, 12 months later, the firm is reflecting on its achievements and progress against the pan-island plans.

As one of the largest employers across the islands of Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man, KPMG has always held it core focus on the impact the business and its people have on their local communities. The IMPACT Plan has sought to tackle real issues at a local level and by ‘walking the talk’, the firm has seen real results over the past year – notably the enthusiastic response from its people following the release of the firm’s volunteering policy, permitting each team member five days of skilled volunteering on KPMG time.

This has been achieved by IMPACT covering the whole business, going beyond the environmental factors so many just focus on, with buy-in at all levels and with activity focused on four key areas – or pillars – which the firm has developed through extensive and detailed reviews of all aspects of the business. These are Planet, People, Prosperity, and Governance.

PLANET

1/3 of staff actively using Giki Zero app to set personal carbon reduction goals

Board approved net zero 2030 action plan in place

24% reduction in electricity emissions across our three offices*

of Inclusion, Diversity and Equity policy

More than 3/4 of staff agree they can be their true selves at work

55:45 per cent ratio of male to female colleagues

PEOPLE PROSPERITY

GOVERNANCE

ESG principles placed at the heart of our operations

Appointed a Head of IMPACT, responsible for delivery of our plan

Cration of employeeled pillar groups tasked with shaping our IMPACT priorities

5 days of skilled volunteering for staff each year on KPMG time

A refreshed sponsorship, volunteering and donations policy

Support for local suppliers through sustainable procurement policy

Implementation

*Reduction in officce lectricity emissions when comparing 2022 against 2021

Planet activity has the intended goal of reducing the firm’s impact on the local environment to build a more sustainable and resilient future, with a key commitment to achieve net-zero by 2030. As the world returned to its new norm post-COVID, it could be expected that emissions at the firm may have increased compared to lockdown year levels. Further details on the firm’s carbon footprint, after a full analysis, will be shared in due course. Meanwhile, the Planet pillar continues to work towards the net zero target in 2030, with short-term plans already in place to implement a new firm-wide travel policy, improved monitoring of electricity usage and an office heating plan.

A key element of the Planet pillar has been the successful introduction of the Giki Zero app, which encourages KPMG people to take steps to understand and then reduce their individual carbon footprints. About a third of staff are now actively using the app to track their carbon usage and tailormake their own approach to reducing their personal emissions. Plus a recent food challenge, set via the Giki app, saw savings of upwards of 1,500 kilograms in the personal carbon emissions of staff across the firm’s offices, equating to the creation of more than 10,000 chocolate bars.

Another significant pillar achievement has been the switch to a green electricity tariff in the Isle of Man office, using renewable energy sources. This reduced the Isle of Man office energy emissions by 95% over all of 2022, compared to the non-renewable tariffs available locally.

The People pillar has further enhanced KPMG’s caring, inclusive, and values-led culture. Through the pillar, the IMPACT Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (IDE) policy has been implemented to make sure all staff feel safe and empowered at work – so they can perform to the best of their abilities in a supportive, open and inclusive environment. The 2022 launch of a new leadership development programme has served to support succession planning and improve representation of underrepresented groups in leadership positions. As part of this, KPMG has also continued to work towards an equal gender balance among its staff, with a current 55:45 per cent ratio of male to female colleagues across its Crown Dependencies teams.

KPMG regularly reaches out to its people to find out if they feel fulfilled in their job. Results from its latest wellbeing survey shows how more than three quarters of all staff agree they can be their true selves at work. This is in line with the firm’s key pledge of empowering its people to come as they are and always bring their true, authentic selves to the office.

Through Prosperity, KPMG has been sharing its expertise, building local alliances and making a positive contribution through sponsorships, education for youth and charity fundraising. This not only serves the public interest but also builds trust through a wide range of social and community initiatives. Work already in motion has included KPMG’s recent partnership with environmental NGO’s (Non-Government Organisations) and the Wildlife Trusts in the Crown Dependencies, focusing on mechanisms for the business community to support local biodiversity whilst accelerating journeys to net-zero.

The firm’s new volunteering policy provides staff with the flexibility they need to make a positive difference to their charitable organisation of choice. This offers staff up to five days skilled volunteering allowance a year, allowing KPMG’s people to use their professional skills for the benefit of their respective island communities – be it marketing, accounting, consulting or HR. This revamped policy has already seen 30 volunteering, sponsorship and donation requests from members of staff in the month of January 2023 alone, representing a remarkable initial uptake which demonstrates the keenness and proactivity of KPMG’s people to get out into their communities and make a positive difference.

The fourth pillar – Governance – has focused on putting ESG principles at the heart of the way the things are done at KPMG. From leadership decisions to the wider personal and professional behaviour of its people – the rollout of IMPACT has served to drive a reflective and responsible corporate culture, to do the right thing the right way, within KPMG’s teams and their wider communities. This has ensured consistency and accountability in promoting sustainable economic growth and prosperity.

Simon Nicholas, Partner and Head of IMPACT at KPMG, says “With our IMPACT plans, we’re walking the talk and building an inclusive culture for success. Through our actions, we are showing our commitment to our key values, to do work that matters to make the world a better place. IMPACT is not a one-off exercise, and I am really pleased with the progress we made last year, none of which could have been achieved without the engagement and passion of our great people”.

Neale Jehan, Senior Partner at KPMG in the Crown Dependencies, says “Reflecting on the IMPACT achievements to date is particularly poignant as 2023 is a landmark year for the firm, as we celebrate a presence of over 100 years in Guernsey, 50 years in Jersey and 40 in the Isle of Man. These significant milestones are not lost on the firm, nor is our personal connection and relationships with the local communities, with other 450 employees across the three islands. We’re only at the start of our ESG journey and, with such a strong start, I’m excited to see what the future holds”.

Simon Nicholas

Throughout its 130-year history, supporting others on the Island has been a key strength. As well as sponsoring key events in the Manx social calendar – including the annual Parish Walk and Royal Manx Agricultural Show – and the FC Isle of Man football team, the company works with a host of other organisations such as Isle of Play, Live at Home and The Samaritans, who all contribute to the health and well-being of wider society.

So it’s not surprising that ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) has been on the company agenda for some time. Manx Telecom’s first formal ESG road map was published in 2021, identifying activities and setting targets for all three of the ESG strands. It also aligns to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

HIGHLIGHTS TO DATE

INCLUDE:

• Fitting 224 solar panels to the roof of Manx Telecom headquarters saving 20 tonnes of carbon each year. Manx Telecom is also actively investigating other alternative energy sources.

• The introduction by subsidiary OV of half-size plastic SIM cards as standard, reducing plastic used and the carbon footprint of the transportation and packaging of each SIM card.

• An ongoing partnership with the Manx Wildlife Trust which not only covers support of the Cooildarry Nature Reserve but has provided SIM cards for iPads used to record live data in peat surveys carried out on the Manx hills. Manx Telecom also installed Wi-Fi for a nest box camera on the Calf of Man that has picked up footage of Manx shearwaters, and will be sponsoring a uniform for a new Marine Ranger volunteer currently being recruited.

• Staff participation in “Green Month” saw groundwork and two new ponds completed to improve

From solar panels to shearwaters: Manx Telecom puts ESG plans into action

As one of the longest established businesses and largest employers on the Isle of Man, Manx Telecom has always had a very strong community focus.

Sir John Lorimer The Lieutenant Governor

biodiversity in headquarter gardens.

• The appointment of ten members of staff as Wellbeing Champions who will work to support the overall health and wellbeing agenda across the Manx Telecom Group, encouraging all employees to think about and act on improving their mental, physical, and emotional health and wellbeing.

• Support for other sustainable actions by local groups and organisations through the It’s Our Community grant scheme and Make a Difference days.

As Head of the ESG team for Manx Telecom, Sally Lawrence is naturally passionate about the company having a positive impact on the Island, and on people and the planet more generally.

“It’s clear to everyone now that businesses also have responsibilities to their communities as well as to their customers and shareholders,” says Sally. “With the demand for more transparent reporting, it’s crucial that businesses recognise both the risks that are posed, and the benefits that can be attained, by the way they operate.

“We’re pleased to see many of our initial goals coming to fruition. And while

many of the environmental and social activities are visible to everyone, it’s also important to recognise some of the improvements in governance that are not so obvious to those outside the business.

“Manx Telecom has always strived to reach high standards and be in the top flight of telecommunications companies. We have a long list of external accreditations to our name, including ISOs on health and safety, quality management, information security and environmental management.

“Through our ESG plans, we are also focusing on increasing the gender balance in our management and technical roles as well as increasing diversity in the workforce through recruitment and career development pathways that encourage equality.

“Of course, ESG is a journey – there is always more to do. We are now well advanced with the next version of our road map and look forward to implementing more actions to play our part in creating a more sustainable future for our Island and our people.”

“It’s clear to everyone now that businesses also have responsibilities to their communities as well as to their customers and shareholders”

Wellbeing Champions

Sally Lawrence

UCM Launches Five Year Strategy

University College Isle of Man (UCM) has launched its five-year strategic plan which sets forth the organisation’s priorities for the future.

The plan is the culmination of consultation with staff, students, governors and employers, and supports the Island Plan’s focus on ‘Outstanding Lifelong Learning and Development Opportunities for all’.

The University College is at the heart of the Island’s community, and aims to support growth and prosperity on the Island, through development of skills and the local workforce. UCM enables students to access on-Island education, training and learning from school links programmes through to post-graduate degrees.

UCM places the student at the heart of everything it does through the objectives detailed within the strategy, including delivery of a ‘life enhancing and inclusive student experience’ and a ‘high quality, agile and challenging curriculum which is focused on skills for the future’.

UCM also aims to promote a Smart, Safe and Sustainable approach, by creating learning environments which are safe, sustainable and flexible in order to enhance the quality of education and training delivered, as well as making the student experience first rate.

Within the plan, key priorities include Digital Development: ensuring the curriculum and systems reflect the Island’s digital strategy, Curriculum Changes: in addition to the intensive changes led by awarding bodies, UCM will develop the curriculum, tutorials and enrichment programmes to meet future employment needs, The Island Plan: supporting the Island Plan in developing a secure, vibrant and sustainable future, Employers and Partners: working closely with public and private sectors to support talent and skill requirements for current and

Jesamine Kelly

RL360’S CHRISTINE COWLEY WINS A TT DAY OF A LIFETIME

RL360 Investment Marketing Technician

Christine Cowley was treated to a TT day of a lifetime after winning two Grandstand hospitality tickets in a staff raffle.

Christine waved the start flag to set off RL360 Superstock TT Race Two on Friday 9 June and handed out the trophies at the garlanding ceremony, which saw winner Peter Hickman take the top step of the podium, ahead of Michael Dunlop and Dean Harrison.

The raffle raised more than £600 for the Joey Dunlop Foundation.

Christine has a personal connection to the TT, which makes this win particularly special for her:

‘I was absolutely ecstatic to win the raffle, especially as I’ve had a lifelong family link to the TT and racing, with both my Dad and brother having raced as sidecar passengers. My Dad, John Alan Cowley, achieved a top 10 finish in 1975 Sidecar 1000cc TT, and also achieved a number of race finish medals. One of my earliest memories is of sitting in a motorcycle fairing, in our front garden, as he was painting it ready for the racing!

‘My younger brother Paul Cowley raced mostly short circuit sidecars in the UK, as passenger for ex-Formula One driver Ian Ashley, including winning a race at Brands Hatch in 2003; before his TT entry in 2003 which sadly ended in tragedy during a practice session. I am so pleased to be able to mark my own tiny part in TT history, as well as contributing to raising money for the fantastic work of the Joey Dunlop Foundation.’

Manx National Rally 2023

THE MANX MODIFIED CAR CLUB AT SKILLANNAYLOR

Barry & Sue Kennedy – Noble M12 Trophy

Louis Taylor – VW Scirocco Trophy

Mikey Westcott – Toyota Supra Trophy

The Manx Modified Car Club at SkillanNaylor

Saturday 24th June

SkillanNaylor Car

Company were very pleased to host at their main Douglas showroom the Manx Modified Car Club for a monthly meet.

The event was extremely well attended and there was an amazing array of cars on show. With the likes of Rally classics of Ford Escort Mexicos to Lancia Delta Integrales all the way up to modern super cars such as the Noble M12 and Audi R8 as well as some hot hatches like the i30N and Golf R. It was a great day out for all car enthusiasts alike with delicious food provided by Fire & Ice and fantastic entertainment from the in house DJ.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR EVENT COVERED, PLEASE CONTACT US ON PAPARAZZI@GALLERY.CO.IM

To show their appreciation and to recognise the time, effort and money that petrol-heads put into their cars SkillanNaylor awarded trophies to their three favourite cars.

Barry & Sue Kennedy – Noble M12

Louis Taylor – VW Scirocco

Mikey Westcott – Toyota Supra

SkillanNaylor Car Company would like to thank everyone that supported the event and special thanks go to Kim Nowell from the Manx Modified Car Club for helping to organise the event.

www.sncc.im

Photography: Lucas Croydon

SkillanNaylor Car Company also borrowed a selection of cars from some of their clients to exhibit from within their showroom.

The Magnificent 7

Our Magnificence family is now a Magnificent 7

Jenna-Marie O’Sullivan, formally known as Hair Art by Jenna-Marie, has joined our team as our Style Director/Creative Designer and her talents show no bounds! Look at these before and afters to see for yourself.

She’s been with us for a month now and is already so high in demand, so book in fast before she’s fully booked!

Don’t just take our word for it! Read these reviews from very happy and satisfied clients:

‘Thank you so much for my lovely hair cut, really pleased and you have lovely friendly staff. Thank you again.’

Maureen Nielsen

‘Jenna did an amazing job on my hair today. I asked for something very specific and she 100% delivered. Such a lovely salon with a great atmosphere and visiting for the first time today I was made to feel very welcome and also got a lovely gift. Maggie has a first class salon, I can’t wait to go back again!’

Gill Russell

‘I absolutely adore Magnificence! Always leave feeling amazing. Jenna did my hair, talked me through everything and gave some fab advice. I absolutely adore my hair!’

Debbie Leece

‘Lovely salon, nice atmosphere. Very friendly and welcoming staff. Jenna was fabulous.’

Becky Moore

If you’re thinking ahead and thinking about your Christmas hair book in now before she’s booked up for all of November and December.

These ladies restyles are already stopping traffic! Book in now and get ready to turn heads!

Jenna-Marie O’Sullivan

The perfect place to meet and connect

Welcome

If you haven’t already visited the Santander Work Café, you may be wondering what all the buzz is about. Well imagine the perfect place to catch up with colleagues and friends or to work, away from the office in a high-tech, and chilled environment. Whilst you’re here you can enjoy eats, treats and coffee from our awesome café partners Noa and make use of our state-of-the-art banking facilities, free co-working spaces, free bookable meeting rooms and free high-speed Wi-Fi.

Pop in to see for yourself – everyone’s welcome!

Coffee