Gallery IoM 104: The Green Edition

FASHION GOES AUTUMN

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THE GREEN

Photographer Danny Evans

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Tania Assistant Rosie Lee

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There’s no doubt that over Gallery’s lifespan we’ve pushed way more paper than I’d ever imagined we would. As we consider options for the future it still amazes me that there is a thirst from readers to consume print and a desire from publishers to continue with traditional print media in our digital world.

Despite the glossy exteriors, most magazines these days are actually made from recycled paper. It’s not even driven by publishers desires to appear with strong eco credentials but more by the needs of paper mills and commercial printers to do so in their annual reports. Big industry, even more than their clients, need to communicate their consideration that we live in a world where sustainability is key.

It seems these days every business, irrespective of industry, is under scrutiny more than ever to conduct business with consideration for the environment. With that in mind it’s paper hats off to Douglas Borough Council who have introduced a new strategy for collecting household waste. The changes will create a more environmentally responsible system, encouraging everyone to reduce, reuse and recycle as much as possible. Also Douglas City, awarded nine prestigious green flags again for Nobles Park and city spaces/gardens. Elsewhere in this edition, we meet a range of Island people who live their lives and run their businesses under the mantra of ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’, and have all manner of features to educate, amuse and entertain you.

We’ve made a conscious effort this year to re-align Gallery with its founding principles of promoting interesting creative work, publicising the Isle of Man unique style and culture. We also feature Lucy Sanderson, who shares her thoughts on ‘why are we so anti-ageing’? Ben Thorne explores cannabis tourism which is set to be a £17 billion industry, so why shouldn’t the Isle of Man cash in? And Martin Malone nags us to eat our greens, apparently your body will thank you for it.

SR Going Green

/ 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

CONTENTS

SECTIONS

FEATURES

Evergreen 10 Why are we so anti-ageing?

Stonehage Fleming Reception 26 Stonehage Fleming host a reception to celebrate new presence in the Isle of Man.

Hi-de-High 60 Cannabis tourism is set to be a £17 billion industry, so why shouldn’t the Isle of Man cash in?

Eat Your Greens 64 Your body will thank you for it!

10 Greatest British Sporting Moments 66 With England Women’s fantastic victory in the 2022 European Championships still fresh in our memories, IFGL reflected on what were Britain’s greatest ever sporting moments.

A MOKE without the smoke 68 If your old enough to remember the colourful fleet of MOKE hire cars that were great fun during the nineties, read on. 06

24 September-1 October

16-18 September

Grease The Musical

A nostalgic trip back to the fabulous fifties in this lively rock ‘n’ roll classic! It’s 1959, and Rydell High School’s senior class have returned from summer recess and this electrifying musical follows them with the rock ’n’ roll soundtrack that defined generations. £18-£89

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

17-18 September

Isle of Man Sea Kayak Festival

Kayakers from around the world – and the Island - meet to experience the Autumnal Equinox tide, the Festival is organised by Island kayaking specialists Adventurous Experiences. £ Various Peel 01624 843034 www.adventurousexperiences.com

1 October

12 Hour Live Music Party

The 12 hour live music party is back for the first time since 2018. 12 bands, 12 hours, 1pm to 1am. Arrive early – last time it was full house from about 6pm. £1

Quids Inn, Douglas withoutwingsiom

17-18 September

Festival of Motoring

Aimed at motoring enthusiasts on the Island from further afield, there events include Sloc closed mountain runs, Jurby track sessions, Douglas Seafront car displace and a TT Circuit Motorcade, which will include closed Mountain runs. Free To Watch Island Wide 01732 879153 www.iomfm.com

23 September

Jason Manford: Like Me

It’s been a busy few years for Jason since his last smash-hit stand up show but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this nationally acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit. ‘Like Me’ is Jason’s latest comic offering set to hit the Isle of Man. £31

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

2

The Musicals in Concert

For one magical night only stars from London’s West End take to the stage in a glorious Gala Performance of songs from some of the worlds favourite musicals including Les Misérables, Blood Brothers, Miss Saigon, Book of Mormon, Lion King, Mamma Mia, Wicked and We Will Rock You. £25

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival

Celebrating the very best of Manx produce this weekend shines a light on all the passionate people, businesses and organisations which make the Island’s food culture so uniquely bold and creative. As always there will be a festival atmosphere with catering, drinks, and music from local performers and bands. Free

Villa Marina Gardens, Douglas www.iomfoodanddrink.com

23 September

Seven Seas

Queens & Tassles, Feral and Penny

Productions get together for one night only in ‘Seven Seas’ where ‘everything’s better, down where it’s wetter’. Featuring Miss Dee Dee, Gwenael LaSirene, Fenella Beach, Bill Strutt, Poly Vinyl, Jackie Morrey-Grace and Simon Smart. Poetry, burlesque, comedy and music. Tickets: Eventbrite £18

Laxey Working Men’s Institute

12 October

The Hypnotist: Red Raw

A brand new show where volunteers from the audience unlock their imaginations and create a once-in-a-lifetime show of improvised comedy under the influence of hypnosis - live on stage. £18-£80

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

Jack Dee - Off The Telly

Join Jack Dee for an evening of entertainment (food and beverages not included) in his new stand-up tour. ‘In these difficult and uncertain times people need hope – a ray of sunshine to brighten their day. And that’s very much where I come in’ says Jack. £23.50-£94

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

14-15 October

Oktoberfest

Back by popular demand, 10-piece band Die Wandernden Biertrinker returns to the Villa for 2 nights of live oompah music, fun and games. Don your Lederhosen or Dirndl and raise your stein as you sing along to an eclectic mix of traditional Bavarian songs and anthemic pop tunes with a funky twist. Prost! £20

Villa Marina Prom Suite, Douglas www.villagaiety.com

16 October

Jimeoin: The Craic!

World-class award-winning stand-up with a wide appeal and a cheeky no-gimmicks and superbly observed sense of humour. Jimeoin has audiences in stitches across the UK, Europe, USA and in his adopted homeland of Australia. £19-£76

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

19 October

20 October

Megaslam

Europe’s leading wrestling company is back on the Isle of Man with their huge 2022 Live Tour. Team Megaslam battle it out with Team Nasty in a series of matches that are designed to get your little ones jumping around and cheering on their favourites in a 2 hour show that promises ‘full-on’ family fun! £14-£58

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

21-22 October

19 October Seven

Local dance studios Move It presents The Seven, an epic tale of Sin vs Virtue. Watch as our fearless group of friends enter the deserted mansion and explore more than just the rooms. £17-£68

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com | www.moveit.im

Cyberisle

Now in its fourth year, the updated CyberIsle will be host to a programme of interactive and thought provoking presentations, panels and workshops for businesses, charities and individuals. Speakers will inclued cyber security experts. FREE

Comis Golf Club, Santon Tickets: Eventbrite www.ocsia.im

22 October

80’s Live

The biggest 80s party show to tour the UK is coming to the Isle of Man with a sensational live cast and band. You’ll feel shiny and new as you travel back in time to one of the most iconic eras of music for the night out you have been dreaming of for years. £27

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

26-29 October

Dara Ó Brian: So, Where Were We

In his new show Dara will fire out the usual mix of stories, one-liners, audience messing, and tripping over his words because he is talking too quickly, because he’s so giddy to be back in front of a crowd. ‘Pure, undiluted comic genius’, according to the Evening Standard. £23.50

Villa Marina, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

Moana JR

A musical adaptation of the 2016 Disney animated film, bringing the adventures of Moana and her village of Motunui to life on stage. Moana JR. features all the beloved songs from the film, including ‘How Far I’ll Go’, ‘Shiny’, and ‘You’re Welcome’. £15-£64

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

Words Lucy Sanderson

Photo Ollie Jones

Why are we so anti-ageing?

It’s not lost on me, the fact that since turning 40, my online footprint must have stamped on a landmine, triggering a never-ending thread of suggestions for me to look younger. One even said I could ‘be younger’… Dunno if that was an offer for cryogenics or something, to freeze my withering old carcass before I dare bear a wrinkle. Either way, I scroll past fast (with my old lady thumbs).

Ordinarily, in nature there’s a kind of celebration of age, growth and fruition. In human nature, not so much. We celebrate antiquities and we commend people for ‘reaching a ripe old age’… We often congratulate people for looking younger too. It’s good to ‘knock ten years off’. Why? How is looking younger any achievement at all? It’s purely genetic and who bloody cares? I am cringing at myself a bit as I write this and my friends will be laughing as they read my hypocrisy knowing I love a bit of botox.

Ok, so (like many) I fall foul of the need to look and thereby apparently feel, ‘evergreen’.

For you nippers out there, fresh-faced and full of collagen, you’re not going to have the faintest idea what I’m talking about. Trust me when I tell you it sneaks up, this apparent problem called ageing (listen to your elders). This awkward shunt into a ‘next phase of life,’ being aged, middle or otherwise, whereby you are conscious of gaining wrinkles and sprinkles of silver strands. Or losing hair, teeth, menstrual cycles… marbles. It can all be a bit of a shock - a slap in jowls as it were.

My ageing epiphany wasn’t even spurred on by me. I think it was mostly those dastardly data hoarders over on social media that made me ‘woke’ to the fact that I am now a woman who apparently needs to try and counteract the natural process of growing older. I guess there are not many real life people who’d say it to my face“Oh hey Luce, looking a tad weathered there, hun… take this pill, do this exercise, drink the Kool Aid…” Instagram is, however, not shy in the slightest about letting me know I need to tend to my wobbly bits, flatten out my wrinkly bits and shame myself free of any hairy bits. The stream of ads and content for ladies my age portrays a whole new arena of issues to play in.

Did you know that women over 40 should do ten minutes of face-yoga every day, pop aromatic herby sachets in our vaginas and meditate online with various sun-kissed, poolside ‘life-coach lady gurus’ from Bali every morning as the sun rises in order to remain youthful and retain our glows? Yeah, neither did I until Insta showed me. *btw, Instagram is no longer a regular app on my phone due to its persistent rudeness in this regard. Take that, Zuckerberg, you purveyor of online assholery and also, waxy-looking cyborg.

As if women don’t have enough to contend with - the world actually wants us to solve the ‘problem’ of never-lasting youth. Battle with the turn of time; yeah ok, hold my drink.

Not digging at the guys here but, how come we all hail the dad bod, but when it comes to ‘her’ in a similar state, she’s let herself go? Rant over.

“Did you know that women over 40 should do ten minutes of face-yoga every day, pop aromatic herby sachets in our vaginas and meditate online with various sun-kissed, poolside ‘life-coach lady gurus’ from Bali every morning as the sun rises in order to remain youthful and retain our glows? Yeah, neither did I until Insta showed me.”

Social media aside, as a woman who is now very aware of being middle-aged, I’m going to take a leaf out of Andy McDowell’s book (look her up). I’m going to ‘choose’ to feel whatever I like - beautiful, old… a bit of both. I will embrace ageing, earn my years (and my hair stripes) and strut my beautiful old ass up Strand St (in my sensible shoes).

I am going to take inspiration from how the Chinese culture reveres its wise, old people. Moreover, I am going to remember just how I felt as I watched my mother, my grandmothers and other women I know and love age - these women have never looked anything other than radiant to me.

Therein lies the solution to my original question; as these women evolve and age, I view them as nothing but wise, wonderful, inspiring and beautiful because I love them. Maybe if I love myself more, that’s how I will see myself when I pass by my reflection - beautiful, wonderful, wise; evergreen.

NEW5 1N NUMB3R5

The KPMG Promenade Relay returned to Douglas prom for 2022 with over 200 runners taking place in the race. The event raised funds in excess of £11,600 for Project 21, the chosen charity of KPMG for their 2022 financial year.

Manx Lottery Trust supports a two-day Huntington’s Disease awareness conference on 23 September. Manx Lottery Trust is backing the event, which will be aimed at families and professionals, with a grant for £8,236.

Manx Care has been fined £170,500 by the Island's Information Commissioner for infringing data protection laws. In October, last year, the organisation emailed an insecure attachment containing a patient's medical details to more than 1,870 recipients.

Medicann, the first medical cannabis clinic has opened in the Isle of Man. Prescriptions can now be dispensed locally to eligible patients.

University College Isle of Man has been given glowing feedback from its students over the last academic year, with almost 100% of students saying they would recommend UCM to a friend.

183 males and 119 females were registered unemployed in the month of July, an increase of 17 since June 2022.

The new Moderna Covid vaccine which targets the original strain and the newer Omicron variant will be available to Isle of Man residents this Autumn. First in line are residents in care homes, older adults and staff working in care homes, frontline health and social care workers, all adults aged 50 and over, those aged 5-49 in a clinical risk group, including pregnant women, those aged 5-49 who are household contacts of people with immunosuppression and those aged 16-49 who are carers.

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.

A new household waste strategy for Douglas

This summer, Douglas Borough Council has introduced a new strategy for collecting household waste. The changes will create a more environmentally responsible system, encouraging everyone to reduce, reuse and recycle as much as possible.

There are two major changes for households: Garden Waste Collections (GWC)

Fortnightly domestic garden waste collections began at the end of August. The garden waste collections will operate between February and October each year, with each eligible household supplied with a new 240-litre wheelie bin specifically for the garden waste. This service will complement our existing kerbside recycling collection operation and the Eastern Civic Amenity Site will continue to provide skips for garden waste.

You can put the following items in your garden waste bin: grass cuttings, hedge cuttings, leaves, bark and tree prunings, twigs and small branches up to 5cm (2”) across, bedding from herbivore pets (e.g. rabbits, guinea pigs), cut flowers, plants and weeds. Any contamination placed in the bin may result in it not being collected and repeated contamination may result in the service being withdrawn.

Request your Garden waste bin by contacting 696448 or email recycling@douglas.gov.im, requests received will be planned into the delivery schedule

Fortnightly Refuse Collections

Household rubbish collections will move from weekly to fortnightly, starting 26 September.

Why are these changes being introduced?

‘As a society, it is crucial that we decrease the volume of waste we produce and maximise the proportion we recycle – and if we can achieve this, it will be a positive environmental change for Douglas. If you are unsure about any of these changes, please don’t worry. We will help households over the coming months, with advice and assistance, including assessments for those households which may have more complex requirements.’

Chair of Environmental Services Committee

The main reason for these changes are environmental. We are a UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man partner, and as such we are committed to strengthening our green credentials and encouraging responsible waste management behaviour.

“The current recycling rate

www.douglas.gov.im

•

/DouglasBoroughCouncil

You can also get in touch by email – refuse@douglas.gov.im or call us on 696445.

Do your bit for Douglas and help save the planet

Kerbside recycling collection

Scan this code to automatically set up a reminder for your collections. Please note, some dates may differ due to bank holidays

Douglas Borough Council Valley Corpagh Doolish

Creating Wild SpacesWith Utmost International

Words by: Joff Whitten | Head of the Children’s Centre

Over the summer we have been working in collaboration with Utmost International to complete parts of our Wild Space project. Following their acquisition of Quilter International they wanted to do something as a whole company – something everyone could be involved with that would benefit a local charity or local cause. The ambition was to make volunteering something a little more focused, have clear purpose and be of genuine benefit to the island.

A t the farm we have our Wild Space, a secluded area of natural beauty, peace, and tranquility. It is approximately 4 acres in size and a short walk from our main farm complex. This part of our site already has a Hobbit House built into the hillside and a part-completed Celtic round house. We have designated it as a ‘conservation’ area and have various biosphere and wildlife projects taking place there such as a ‘hedgehog rescue release’ and ‘wild-flowers for bees’ projects. It is an ideal place for individuals, small groups, and schools to explore, learn more about nature and to fire their imaginations. For us it provides us with additional ‘open air’ classrooms - safe spaces that are within the confines of the farm but are also different, exciting, natural,

and inspiring. This resource is un-finished and working with Utmost we have had the opportunity to make significant progress giving us more usable spaces and therefore enabling us to work with more vulnerable, at risk and challenged children and young people.

Our hope is to open the space to the public next summer – allowing us to show how we work with young people and families. The underlying principle of the Wild Space is the subject of conservation and sustainability. Everything we do there is connected to these principals. The reason we want to open it to the public next summer is to generate a small income – which in itself will add to the sustainability of the charity. The materials we sourced were sustainable and the building techniques are considerate to the environment. The reason we have built raised walkways is not just about access but to keep footfall away from nesting habitats, vegetation and other flora and fauna.

The ways charities operate over the next few years needs to have some serious consideration. As fuel poverty hits all of our pockets we cannot expect the generosity of the Manx public to get us through – we need to be smart with our spending, smart with our approaches to income and always find ways of keeping costs down ensuring we can focus on providing essential services to vulnerable children, young people and families. The contribution from Utmost can be considered in financial terms as much as we can see the work completed. The number of man hours donated by Utmost can be calculated as £10 per hour per volunteer (the UK National Trust use a figure of £13.70 per volunteer hour), 400 or so people donating 7 hours of their time equals an incredible £28,000 donation to the project.

We are really grateful to the whole team at Utmost – it’s been a wonderful summer having them with us each week. As one of the island’s biggest employers, it’s been great for us to get to know their team – as much as they have got to know the work we do here, at the farm and across the island.

ST CHRISTOPHER’S ‘DIFFERENT TOGETHER’ CELEBRATES AFTER RECEIVING £36,000 FROM THE MANX LOTTERY TRUST

St Christopher’s Isle of Man is celebrating after being awarded £36,000 in funding from Manx Lottery Trust’s Dormant Assets Fund.

Different Together will use their funding to create a culture of diversity and inclusion across St Christopher's services for staff, children, young people, partners and broader community on the island.

The grant will enable St Christopher’s Isle of Man to employ their first Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Advisor to equip staff with the right tools, training and support to navigate a workplace where people can bring their whole selves, feel safe and are free from the effects of perceived or actual bias.

Anne Seed, Director of Operations, IOM said: ‘Thanks to this grant we can ensure that we have a diverse workforce that reflects the young people living in our homes. And that opportunities for development and promotion are genuinely accessible to all. This will make a big difference to people’s lives.’

Sarah Kelly, Chairman of Manx Lottery Trust, added: ‘We are pleased to support St Christopher’s with this new role, which will ensure all adults and children involved with the charity can be part of a fair and equal culture. We appreciate their hard work in providing vital support for young people’.

www.mlt.org.im/grant-programmes

RIDING FOR THE DISABLED YOUNGSTERS ATTEND SPECIAL RIDING HOLIDAY IN WALES

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has been pleased to help a group of four disabled children from the Isle of Man attend a horse-riding centre in Wales.

Riding for the Disabled Isle of Man took the four children and their carers to Clywd Special Riding Centre, near Wrexham.

Established in 1976, Riding for the Disabled IOM is a registered charity that works to bring the benefits of riding to children with disabilities, such as improving physical exercise, self-esteem, and communication skills. Riding for the Disabled holds its lessons at Guilcagh Stables in Andreas and is run by qualified coaches and trained helpers, all of whom are volunteers.

Jude Starky from Riding for the Disabled said: The children don’t just ride – they are involved with the horse care too; they bring the horses in from the fields, then groom and tack them up before riding. They get to enjoy the wonderful experience of riding out on trails around the complex, which is a very different experience to the indoor area riding they usually do. ‘The positive effects this experience has on our riders is evident each year; without exception, we see an amazing difference, not only in the children’s equestrian abilities, but in their selfesteem, confidence and interaction with others. The trip is also a wonderful experience for our volunteers, who make sure the children have everything they need during the holiday.’

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Managing Director Brian Thomson added: ‘It is lovely to be able to support groups like Riding for the Disabled in providing opportunities for young people with disabilities. It’s delightful to hear about the children developing their equestrian skills.

https://rda-iom.co.uk/making new friends

Dog Friendly Holiday Destinations in the UK

As a nation of dog-lovers we want our holidays to be memorable experiences that every member of the family will enjoy – including our fourlegged ones. The UK is filled with pet-friendly destinations, complete with holiday stays, eateries, historical attractions, country parks, beaches, and some pretty paw-some walking trails!

And what better way to travel than by ferry with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. With several dogfriendly travel options onboard vessels Ben-my-Chree and Manannan, including a pet lounge, pet-friendly cabins, and kennels, you can be rest assured your furry friends will be comfortable and well-rested ahead of your adventure. For those pooches that would prefer familiar surroundings, passengers travelling by car have the option to leave their fourlegged friends in their vehicle too.

Whether you simply want to enjoy a relaxing countryside getaway, a city break or instead have an adventure holiday filled with hills and mountains, there’s plenty of paw-fect destinations to choose from…

North Wales

Enjoying a vast and varied landscape of lush countryside, imposing mountain ranges, rolling hills, pretty valleys and traditional villages, there is plenty on offer in a pet-friendly North Wales holiday. Why not enjoy the very best of North Wales’ scenery by climbing its highest peak, Mount Snowdon’s summit.

Snowdonia National Park welcomes dogs on a lead, so your four-legged friends can join you on your trek up one of Britain’s most magnificent mountains.

Bodnant Garden in Conwy is also another must see. The National Trust gardens are set over eighty stunning acres of lawns, meadows, and lakes, and welcomes dogs on a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. There’s also a range of dog-friendly castles, historic trails, and an abundance of beautiful coastline home to some of Wales’s prettiest villages.

North Yorkshire Home to breath-taking countryside, a stunning stretch of coastline and sandy beaches, North Yorkshire is a dog owner’s dream holiday destination. With 40 percent of the county made up of national parks, amazing dog walks await. Explore the Victorian spa town of Harrogate or the historic city of York - home to trendy dogfriendly eateries including Spark:York; a vibrant collection of bars, street food stalls and shops located in a set of shipping containers in the heart of the city.

Cheshire Cheshire is home to some of the UK’s most picture-postcard villages and bustling market towns. There’s also a wealth of dog walks offering incredible views across the county, including Delamere Forest and Eastham Country Park. Dogs can also stretch their legs in the grounds of

the UK’s oldest sporting venue Chester racecourse! Why not live like a local, and enjoy the picturesque woodland walk along the River Dee, starting in the quaint village of Eccleston and ending in the Roman walled city of Chester. There you’ll be spoilt for choice with independent dogfriendly restaurants, including Turkish eatery Pars Kahve, art studio come café, Pictura Studios Creative Café, and botanical oasis, The Townhouse Secret Garden – along with many more!

Cumbria and the Lake District

The ideal destination for walkers and lovers of the great outdoors, Cumbria and the Lake District has over 20 English Heritage Sites that accept dogs including Ambleside’s ancient Roman Fort; the public park and remains of the 14th century Penrith Castle; the impressive remains and medieval gems of Furness Abbey and the 13th century Brougham Castle, which sits along the banks of the pretty River Eamont.

The district is probably most famous for its spectacular lakes, which provide the perfect backdrop for a hike, stroll or family picnic. Lake Windermere is the largest, and perfect for a quaint boat tour. Enjoy a similar experience at Coniston Water, where dogs can join the lake cruise free of charge.

Lancashire

Seaside resort, Blackpool, is a hive of activity with its pleasure beach and long promenade – perfect for a leisurely walk with your four-legged friends. Morecambe Bay is another coastal area offering a variety of outdoor activities and miles of sandy beaches. The Wildfowl and Wetland Trust, situated near Ormskirk, is a familyfriendly nature reserve with canoe safaris, giant treehouses, play areas, boat tours and wild walks, perfect for the entire family - furry ones included!

The East Lancashire Railway is one of Lancashire’s top dog-friendly attractions; a historic steam railway that runs through pretty market towns and chocolate box villages. Stop off at Ramsbottom with its bustling weekly market and quirky independent shops or Summerseat, a beautiful nature reserve adjacent to the station.

Set sail with your four-legged friends this 2022!

Get your holiday off to a relaxing start onboard the Isle of Man Steam Packet. Avoid long airport queues, take as much luggage as you like, and have the flexibility to bring your furry friend - with a range of dog-friendly travel options to choose from.

Visit www.steam-packet.com for further details on pet-friendly travel options.

Gallery presents the wedding of

Mr and Mrs

Ciapelli

`Photographer: Lee Notman

Fran and Luca were married on the 18 June 2022 with the Ceremony and reception at Milntown Estates.

THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLEMEN’S RIDE

The distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride: Sunday 22 May.

Earlier this year, in late May, over 100,000 classic and vintage styled motorcyclists around the world suited-up in their smartest attire and united in the annual The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, with the aim of raising $7 Million USD for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health initiatives.

The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride brings something special to the Isle of Man’s rich motorcycling culture. We are uniting the biker community and showing how generous the gentlefolk of our Island so fair, truly

are. In its 5th year, despite a thick Cloak of Manannan (dense fog), over one hundred riders turned up at the start of the ride in Peel, to prove we are made of true grit when it comes to the efforts made for two great charities.

It’s a quirky, visually stunning event raising money for two amazing charities. Our Isle of Man riders will be joining others from across the world to ride dapper for men’s health. RL360 is absolutely thrilled to sponsor the growing Isle of Man’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride,’ said RL360 Marketing Director Simon Barwell.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR EVENT COVERED,

Photography: David Silvester

STONEHAGE FLEMING - ISLE OF MAN

STONEHAGE FLEMING HOSTS RECEPTION TO CELEBRATE NEW PRESENCE IN THE ISLE OF MAN

Stonehage Fleming, one of the world’s leading international family offices, had the pleasure of hosting a reception for clients and intermediaries at their offices at Falcon Cliff Palace Road, Douglas, on Thursday 7 July to celebrate the merger of the Maitland business into Stonehage Fleming.

Colin Bird, Managing Partner Isle

of Man, commented: “Stonehage Fleming is extraordinarily proud of Ian Fleming’s legacy. He and his brothers played a huge part in the story of the Fleming family. We, in turn, are proud to have joined the Stonehage Fleming family.”

Chris Merry, CEO Stonehage Fleming commented: “We are driven by clients: both by what they need now and what they will need in the future. Our presence in the Isle of Man embodies that commitment and adds to the services we offer.”

Gallery presents the wedding of

Family, friends and Taz the Labrador enjoyed the wedding service taken by the Reverend Iaen Skidmore. The reception was held at Amisfield House.

Stacey Saltwell ties the knot with Shane Garrett at Maughold Church on 6th August 2022.

`Photographer: Adele Priest Photography and Mrs

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

vulture

Now-11 September

Traders of the Lost Arts

Skilled traders were integral to our island community in years gone by. As Manx life moved from the rural to the urban these once essential crafts were largely forgotten. This exhibition celebrates these lost skills and encourages conversations about times gone by. Free

House of Manannan, Peel www.manxnationalheritage.im

Now-24 September

10 September

Isle of Man Food & Drink Festival

Celebrating the very best of Manx produce this weekend shines a light on all the passionate people, businesses and organisations which make the Island’s food culture so uniquely bold and creative. As always there will be a festival atmosphere with catering, drinks, and music from local performers and bands. Free Villa Marina Gardens, Douglas www.iomfoodanddrink.com

36 Views of Snaefell

Inspired by the Japanese artist Hokusai’s 36 Views of Mount Fuji. A two year project by Paul Quayle, exploring our own mountain from all parts of the Island in woodcarvings and poetry. A collaborative exhibition by Allan Brown, Julia Ashby Smyth, Julie Roberts, Michael Starkey and sculpture Rob Jones. Free

Hodgson Loom Gallery, Laxey HodgsonLoomGallery

Now-26 September

Manx Last Night of The Proms

Something for everyone, both the more serious music lovers and those who simply enjoy the finale. With rousing renditions of classics such as Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance, Land of Hope and Glory and Hubert Parry’s Jerusalem, along with the ever popular Fantasia on British Sea-Songs. £15-£18

Gaiety Theatre, Douglas 01624 600555 www.villagaiety.com

21-25 September

David Fletcher ‘Paintings’

A retrospective of the work of this highly revered and much loved artist will be at the House of Manannan until February, with the opportunity to see works in private and public ownership and some available to purchase. Free House of Manannan, Peel www.manxnationalheritage.im

Speed & Light

Explore the atmosphere, drama, light, and movement of the Isle of Man TT in an exhibition of paintings by Manx artist Paul Parker - featuring iconic riders including Joey Dunlop, Mike Hailwood, John McGuinness, Peter Hickman, Ian Hutchinson and more racing legends. Free Manx Museum, Douglas www.manxnationalheritage.im

30 September-02 October

Manx Litfest

The 10th anniversary of the first LitFest in 2012 features talks and workshops from a wide range of visiting and local authors and the exciting Poetry and Short Story Slams, the informative Writer’s Day and the regular school visits. Free - £25 Various Venues 07624 464634 www.manxlitfest.com

Heritage Open Days

Celebrate and explore the Isle of Man’s outstanding heritage, history and culture with guided walks, talks and events during the Islands biggest heritage festival. Free Island Wide www.manxnationalheritage.im

Manx Invertebrates & Insectmania

Manx insects, invertebrae, butterfly, arachnid, in any form, medium and size. Curator Julia Ashby Smyth said it will have a focus on the Manx biosphere, it might also feature talks and slide shows, hands on rummaging, and hedgerow foraging around the car park with experts on hand to identify finds. Free Hodgson Loom Gallery, Laxey HodgsonLoomGallery

Why is literacy so important?

On International Literacy Day (8th September), University College Isle of Man (UCM) English lecturer, Peter Morrisson, explains the importance of literacy for people of all ages and what we can do to improve.

Why is literacy so important?

The World Literacy Foundation reported that in 2018 in the UK, illiteracy cost the economy around £80 billion due to expenditures associated with welfare, unemployment, and social programs, as well as reduced government tax revenue and productivity.

In a recently published article entitled ‘Literacy: An evidence-informed guide for teachers’ author, James Murphy, states ‘Written information has become the foundation on which the information revolution is built. Without access to this foundation, full participation in our society is impossible. Indeed, poor literacy is so strongly correlated with poor life outcomes, that it should be impossible to ignore.’

How can low literacy levels affect every-day life?

People with low levels of literacy tend to have lower incomes. With fewer resources, there is a higher probability of housing and food instability. Students without this stability concern themselves less with the grades they are getting, and so the cycle of low literacy levels is perpetuated.

Furthermore, people with a low level of literacy have limited ability to make important informed decisions in everyday life, as they struggle with tasks such as filling out complex forms and applications, understanding government policies, and even reading medicine or nutritional labels.

So, it’s clear that if we support young people with literacy as well as encouraging those no longer in education who have lower literacy levels to improve, then not only will they benefit, but our Island’s economy will also benefit.

How can people who have low literacy improve?

Like any skill, the way to improving is practice. Set aside a small amount of time every day to practise reading. Some people find it helpful to read out loud which can feel a bit awkward at first but after a while it starts to feel more natural.

Find things that you like to read. Some people get hooked by a murder mystery, some are fascinated by factual books like biographies, whereas others want something more light hearted.

Set yourself some achievable goals. Short stories or something that has a younger reading age is a great place to start. This will help you boost your confidence.

There are also lots of great resources available locally to help improve literacy. If you can, get your family involved so you can all learn together, for example, the Family Library is great for families and The Henry Bloom Library has a children’s reader’s group for children aged 7 – 11 years old. The group aims to develop their reading and communication skills and nurture a love of reading.

Adult Literacy and Numeracy (or ALN) classes welcome people of all post-school ages throughout the academic year, providing essential skills in reading, writing and spelling. These classes are tailored to suit the individual and are often one-onone which is great for people who might be concerned or anxious about being in a learning environment.

Students who want to progress to gain qualifications, perhaps to be able to progress on to further or higher education or to add to their CV, take their English iGCSE which is currently offered without any cost at UCM.

People who don’t speak English as their first language can benefit with an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) course, which UCM also offers without any cost.

You might also be interested to read that UCM offers Maths GCSE free of cost.

For more information about UCM’s English courses visit www.ucm.ac.im

Happy Birthday LitFest

The 10th anniversary of the first Manx LitFest is here! First, a word from the organisers:

‘A

ll of us at Manx LitFest are beyond thrilled that we’ve reached this 10 year anniversary. When we started in 2012 we had no idea that we would be still be going a decade later, and we are so grateful to those who have supported and sponsored us over the last ten years and to everyone who has been to our events.’

So what’s on offer? After two years of Covid disruptions and cancellations, Manx LitFest 2022 is back, shorter than in earlier years but with the usual mix of author discussions, book signings, educational visits and the popular Poetry and Short Story Slams and the highly competitive, but always fun, Book Fanatics Quiz Night.

As always there is an eclectic blend of visiting and local authors: the headline ‘act’ is acclaimed horror writer Michelle Paver who will be talking about her books include Wakenhyrst (‘spooky, twisted and unforgettable’) and the recent Dark Matter (’a tale of terror and beauty and wonder’). More horror comes from Catriona Ward, talking about her latest book Sundial, described as ‘authentically terrifying’ by master of terror himself, Stephen King. Not technically ‘horror’ but there’s also Kings of a Dead World, Jamie Mollart’s dystopian vision of a – you guessed it – a dying world. Or you can discover local witches and witchcraft with historian John Callow.

If horror isn’t your thing, how about poetry? LitFest kicks off on Wednesday 21st September with the Poetry Slam compered by Simon Maddrell, whose own poetry has been published widely. His debut Throatbone was published in 2020 and weaves his love of his native Isle of Man with his experiences growing up here as a gay

teenager, poems which have been described variously as tender, hopeful, deeply personal, often painful and both beautiful and disconcerting.

Simon is all over LitFest with two workshops and then on the final day (Sunday 25th September) with ‘a conversation with Simon Maddrell’ – which also features local actress/performer Lisa Smith - and promises to be not only an exploration of his life as a queer Manx man but his love for the Isle of Man, its landscapes, nature, history and folklore.

Simon is by no means the only local talent at this year’s LitFest. Former journalist Joanne Clague will be hosting

Words Suzy Holland Photos Manx LitFest, authors’ own and Robert Hollingworth

Simon Maddrell

a workshop on ‘when fact meets fiction: writing a story around a historical event.’ Her debut novel The Ragged Valley was published earlier this year and is the first in a three part historical fiction series called the Sheffield Sagas, set in her home town in the 1880s. The second, The Girl at Change Alley, follows in November. And on the same day, 25th September, local marine biologist Dr Fiona Gell, author of Spring Tides: Exploring Marine Life on the Isle of Man will be hosting a non-fiction workshop on ‘creativity in a crisis: writing for the ecological and climate emergency.’

Another local author Steve Wright (no, not that one!) is launching his Wild Enthusiasm: A very British Safari at Erin Arts Centre on Sunday 25th. Described as an inspiring and engaging diary of encounters with eagles, otters, dolphins, puffins and, of course, wallabies, Wild Enthusiasm… is very readable and Steve himself is, as you’d expect, very enthusiastic and will be signing copies at this event. Which is as good at a time as any to mention that the Bridge Bookshop in Port Erin and Ramsey is the place to go for copies of books by all the LitFest authors: “We are proudly the festival bookstore again,” says owner Angela Pickard, “and are looking forward to celebrating the 10th festival in this, our own 50th anniversary year.”

And LitFest wouldn’t be LitFest without children’s books. At the Family Library in Douglas on Saturday 24th, Candy Courlay will be discussing her ‘Is it a Mermaid?’ (aimed at 3 to 6 year olds) and the same day multi-award winning illustrator Martin Impey returns to LitFest to lead an illustration workshop for children. And then on Sunday, Impey and Chris Riley will talk about their collaboration on the Teen/Young Adult (10+) book about the moon landings ‘Where Once We Stood.’

But both artist/illustrator Martin and author Chris are also holding talks for adults at the Erin Arts Centre on Saturday. Martin will discuss his journey researching and 'finding' Wilfred Owen - the man, the soldier and the poet - which led to him illustrating the book of one of Owen's most renowned poems Dulce et Decorum Est. Chris’s talk will cover his wide ranging career as film producer, director and writer of more than forty articles and books on astronomy and planetary science – including the NASA Apollo 11: ‘Owners' Workshop Manual.’

Just enough room here to mention the regular ‘Writers Day’ with panel talks, agent pitch slots, interviews and master classes for aspiring authors which has helped launch the careers of many writers on the Island. And for younger aspiring writers Friday 23rd September sees the popular Schools Day when visiting and local authors call into primary and secondary schools around the Island to encourage creativity at all levels. You never know, you could have a future Booker/Costa/Whitbread or Greenaway prize winner in your house!

Manx LitFest 2022 is on from 21st – 25th September and details of all the events, how to book and more information about each author/poet can be found on www.facebook.com/ManxLitFest.

And if you’d like to get involved with LitFest 2023, now’s the time to volunteer. You can message the team via Facebook, email manxlitfest@gmail.com or just talk to them at your chosen event. Your local literary festival needs you!

Martin Impey

Catriona Ward

Joanne Clague

COVETED AWARDS FOR NOBLE’S PARK and city spaces and gardens

For the fourth successive year, Douglas has been awarded nine prestigious green flags.

The accolade, managed by the UK environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, is considered the benchmark standard for recreational outdoor spaces and sites across the British Isles.

Noble’s Park has been officially recognised as one of the best parks by being awarded the coveted Green Flag.

In addition, eight other parks and green spaces managed by Douglas Borough Council’s Parks Services have been recognised: Douglas Golf Course, Douglas Head, the Kaye Memorial Garden, Summerhill Glen, Derby Square, Douglas Borough Cemetery, Hutchinson Square and the Marine Gardens.

Since entering the scheme for the first time in 2013 (when it was awarded two flags), the local authority has been consistently successful and seen its tally regularly increase.

However, during a year which saw untold damage caused by Storm Barra last December, Regeneration and Community Committee Chair, Councillor Andrew Bentley, believes retaining all nine flags is a particularly impressive achievement.

‘After two years that have seen our parks and green spaces play a vital role for people through lockdowns as a place to relax, exercise and meet friends and family safely, this is truly wonderful.

‘Yet in many ways to receive this news in 2022 is an even finer accolade given it has been far from business as usual with the fallout of Storm Barra, as well as the position where we have experienced and continue to experience a number of staff shortages.

‘It is also testament to the continued hard work and dedication of the Parks Services team that creates consistently magnificent green spaces that everyone can enjoy.

‘Good quality, open green spaces contribute significantly to community quality of life and it is impressive that their efforts have been publicly recognised again by such a respected independent body.’

Not only are the Green Flags the international quality mark for parks and green spaces, the scheme operates a rigorous assessment process with judging involving more than 700 experts.

In addition, the sites are not automatically renewed, meaning the Council has to continually come up with new schemes and maintain high standards to retain their status.

Council Leader Claire Wells says the awards demonstrate the Council’s commitment to investing in green spaces in the capital.

‘To have been awarded nine Green Flags again underlines the commitment to make Douglas a desirable place to live, work and visit,’ she added.

‘Yet it’s not just about well-tended parks and gardens but it’s about investing in community spaces that add value to people’s lives and contribute to creating a positive image.

‘Many congratulations to the Parks Services team for all their work and vision. It is another fitting honour in the year we have been awarded city status’.

Commenting on the news that Noble’s Park has met the Green Flag Award standard, Keep Britain Tidy’s Accreditation Manager Paul Todd said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making Noble’s Park worthy of a Green Flag Award.

“The park is a vital green space for the community in Douglas and testament to all the hard work of staff and volunteers who do so much to ensure that it maintains the high standards demanded by the Green Flag Award.”

OCTOBER OPEN MORNINGS

KING

Island art lovers are in for a treat: David Fletcher ‘Paintings’ is a retrospective of work by this much loved and revered artist opening at the House of Manannan at the end of September.

D avid, who trained at Liverpool College of Art and the Royal College of Art, moved to the Isle of Man in 1975 to take up a teaching post at the Isle of Man College. There he became course leader for the Art & Design Foundation Course, working alongside the Head of Art, Norman Sayle and teaching many of the Island’s current artists. As well as

teaching and inspiring other artists, David had considerable recognition for his own work and exhibited widely both on the Island and further afield. In 1983 he was a prize winner of the National Portrait Awards at the National Portrait Gallery and his ‘Sacred Isle’ won the prestigious Singer and Friedlander prize. In addition, Sir John Moores purchased a large figurative work, ‘Man Resting with his Prejudice’ which had been included in the 1980 John Moores Biennale at the Walker Art Gallery.

Followers of contemporary art on the Island probably already know that amongst David’s many achievements

were helping to establish the Island’s first permanent contemporary art galleries, The Courtyard Gallery and its successor The Sayle Gallery which unfortunately no longer exist, and also initiating the Arts Council Loan Collection which includes prints, paintings and photographs from artists such as Anthony Gormley, Damien Hirst, Picasso, Hockney, Frink and more, as well as Manx artists Bryan Kneale, Chris Killip and Michael Sandle. The works in this collection are out on rotation to schools, hospitals, libraries, the prison and other public buildings.

But if you are unfamiliar with David’s

Words Suzy Holland Images: David Fletcher. Portrait of David, Eileen Schaer. the paintings

own work, then Hannah Murphy of Manx National Heritage provides some background: “David is represented in the National Art Collection by three of his works: ‘The Old Chapel’, ‘Man with Worm’ and ‘Sycamore’, and these paintings will be showcased in the exhibition, alongside a selection of other works curated by David’s widow, Eileen Schaer and colleague Carola Rush. The earlier figurative paintings on loan for this exhibition are oils on board painted in the early 1980s and the framed acrylic on paper paintings are from the 1990s and later when his style became more abstract – and, if you like what you see, there is a rare opportunity to buy those of the paintings not on loan during this exhibition.”

David’s work is described as having a spiritual and transcendental quality reflecting his life-long interest in Eastern philosophy, meditation, poetry and art. Friend and fellow artist Norman Sayle once said that David’s approach to his art, “is absolutely uncompromising… I can’t readily think of any label which could describe David Fletcher’s work. The nearest I can manage is psychological and mystical.” (Exhibition notes from a joint Sayle/Fletcher exhibition, ‘The Space Between’ 2004).

David suffered from a rare medical condition which affects connective tissue, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, which goes some way to explaining his physical frailty, and which contributed to his early death in

2008, aged just 60. But this frailty is completely belied by the strength of purpose in all his paintings from the early semi-abstract portrait and landscape paintings to the later more metaphysical forms. And shortly before his death, he embarked on a collaboration with the contemporary dance school Ballet Rambert which performed on the Island a number of times in the early 2000s. These paintings show a physicality of form and range of movement David could only imagine, interpreting the strength of the dancers and the forceful choreography in colour and line. Or as David said himself at the time, “As a visual artist I am in awe of the freeflowing, often visceral, movements of the dancers which often appear to defy the realms of human anatomy.”

These Ballet Rambert paintings were exhibited on the Island in 2007 and many were sold into private collections, but fortunately for those of us who weren’t there, or weren’t amongst the buyers, one is included in this exhibition - ‘The Evocation of Isadora Duncan’ on loan from the IOM Arts Council Loan Collection.

David’s widow, Eileen Schaer says that being creative was always at the forefront of his mind, whether it was through his paintings, teaching, discussing and sharing ideas, and how important it was to have a permanent gallery:

“I am so pleased that in this exhibition of David’s work MNH is recognising his contribution to contemporary art on the Island,” she says of ‘Paintings’, “and I am sure he would be both proud and humbled by this retrospective.”

Manx National Heritage is honoured to be exhibiting David Fletcher’s work at the House of Manannan:

“David was a well-respected and well-known member of the Manx art community from the 1970s to 2000s,” says Hannah Murphy. “His achievements are numerous, both as teacher and practitioner. David exhibited at the Manx Museum in 1990 with his show ‘Internal Landscapes’ and we are excited to be revisiting his work now with ‘Paintings’. David’s work is timeless; decades later the paintings remain bold, fresh and captivating.”

David Fletcher ‘Paintings’ is at the House of Manannan, Peel from 25 September 2022 until 26 February 2023. Entry is free and some paintings are available for sale.

“David was a wellrespected and well-known member of the Manx art community from the 1970s to 2000s, says Hannah Murphy. His achievements are numerous, both as teacher and practitioner.”

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Coat by Baum und Pferdgarten, £519.00. Jumper by Baum und Pferdgarten, £259.00. Joggers by American Vintage, £99.00. Boots by Steven Maiden, £160.00.

Stunning Barn Conversion in a Semi Rural Location

This impressive 2 bed, barn conversion provides stunning accommodation in an idyllic semi rural location, on the outskirts of the picturesque hamlet of Dalby. This lovely property enjoys fantastic far reaching rural views over open fields and hills, with Corrin's Tower in the distance. The property is conveniently located within a short drive to Peel and its various amenities.

This stunning barn conversion was completed in around 2018 and includes excellent high quality fixtures and fittings throughout.

The immaculately presented accommodation comprises to the ground floor; welcoming entrance hall, impressive open plan living, dining and modern kitchen. The open plan living, dining kitchen enjoys a double height vaulted ceiling and exposed beams, creating a significant feeling of space and a superb characterful feature to this barn conversion. There is a good-sized ground floor bedroom and a stylish family bathroom. To the first floor is a large open landing area which could be utilised as a home office or reading area. There is a further double bedroom accessed off the landing.

Externally at the front of the property is a gravel driveway providing off-road parking for multiple cars. The property is situated in a good-sized plot with wrap around lawned gardens. There is ample space for an erection of a garage, subject to all required regulations.

Ballnalargy Barn, Dalby Road, Dalby

£395,000

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

“This lovely property enjoys fantastic far reaching rural views over open fields and hills, with Corrin's Tower in the distance”

PROPERTY PROFILE

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.

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

£595,000

To arrange a viewing contact

Grays Estate Agency T: 678876 www.graysestateagents.com

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Green Wine

Words by: Anne Berry | WINE DOWN

Historically when talking about green wine, Vinho Verde would always spring to mind. Vinho Verde is one of the largest demarcated wine regions in Portugal, located in the north of the country.

The ‘Verde’of Vinho Verde refers to the style rather than the colour of the wine. The grapes are sometimes harvested early and bottled young with low alcohol and often with a slight effervescence. In the UK it has traditionally been regarded as an inexpensive, easy drinking white wine, especially popular with Portuguese holiday home-owners. Vinho Verde is a region producing a wide range of styles and, to add confusion, red and rose ‘Green Wine’ is also produced! Since joining the EU in 1986, more has been exported and there are many styles consumed around the world, including single varietal wines from grape varieties such as Alvarinho, Avesso and Loureiro, which have ability to age in bottle.

The Vinho Verde Leme is produced from Avesso, a rare, indigenous variety producing aromatic wines with characteristic stone fruit flavours. Avesso translates as ‘reverse or opposite’ and produces wines that are typically lower in acidity and higher in potential alcohol than other native grapes from Vinho Verde. It is a challenging variety to cultivate, which has led to a decrease in vineyard area, but Jorge Pinto, Leme’s experienced winemaker is always up for a challenge and loves to use indigenous grapes. The winery is based in the extreme south-east of the Vinho Verde DOC, which benefits from excellent sun exposure, hot summer days and cool winter nights. These contribute to the aromatic character of the wine and the balance between concentrated fruit flavours, alcohol and the crisp natural acidity for which Vinho Verde is renowned.

‘Green’ is a term that can be used when describing sustainable, organic and biodynamic wines, whose producers aim to protect the environment as far as possible.

Many vineyards are farmed organically but are not always certified as such. Conversion to organic viticulture takes at least three years but more importantly, if your neighbours are using conventional methods, it is impossible to become certified.

Biodynamic viticulture takes it to the next level, ensuring that everything that is taken out of the land on a property goes back into it ready for later generations. Cattle and horses are used for the vineyard work and the food for the animals is grown on the property. The animals produce the manure to feed and fertilise the vines, meaning that there is total traceability throughout the process.

Being organic or biodynamic does not guarantee a good wine, nor does it guarantee no fuzzy head (alcohol still plays a part in that!) but a producer who cares enough to go to extreme measures to protect the vineyards for the next generation is unlikely to make a good wine that is poor in quality.

Being organic or biodynamic does not mean the wine has to be expensive. See a selection from our range here, starting at just £10 a bottle.

Mesta Verdejo – a fresh and light Spanish white from DO Ucles in the Central Castile. The dry continental climate keeps the vines healthy and any rainfall is collected and used in drip irrigation in cases of extreme drought. It’s wonderfully aromatic with peach and citrus flavours.

Vitese Zibibbo – Zibibbo is the Sicilian name for Muscat de Alexandria. The wine is highly aromatic, dry yet fruity with peach character along with notes of jasmine and rose petal. It makes an excellent accompaniment to lightly spiced dishes.

Chablis Le Clos du Chateau – our Chablis producer has a walled vineyard in front of the family property, which they are able to farm organically as there are no direct neighbours. This is dry and elegant, full on the palate with a crisp dry finish.

Ondarre Primeur Rioja – a young Rioja full of black fruit flavours with a touch of oaky spice coming from 5 months ageing in a combination of French and American 225 litre barrels.

Cotes du Rhone Reserve de Fleur – a medium bodied Cotes du Rhone made from predominantly Syrah with a little Grenache. The Syrah gives it a deep colour with blackberry and brambly fruit character while the Grenache adds structure and a touch of pepper.

Cahors K’Or – the flagship wine of the estate, a superb biodynamic red from 100% Malbec grapes. No sulphur is added during vinification, just a tiny amount at bottling to preserve the freshness. Concentrated black fruit and plum character, smooth and spicy on the palate with great structure, complexity and minerality.

24 Duke St, Douglas

The walled vineyard at Chateau de Fleys, in which organic practices are used

PROPERTY PROFILE

GROVE

A superb opportunity to acquire "Grove" a brand new flag ship property by NB design. This stunning house provides over 4,000 sqft of spacious family accommodation which has been designed for modern day living. NB design use Nudura, an insulated concrete system, making the property thermally efficient and can reduce heating and cooling bills by upto 60% in comparison to more traditional methods. Along with solar panels, air source heat, and private drainage the property raises the bar for modern day living.

The internal finish has been given the same consideration in its design and layout creating open plan living space with contrasting finishes to joinery, cabinetry and decor, and bespoke design features with particular attention given to the stair case, a stylish centre piece within the home.

The accommodation in brief comprises of entrance hall, sitting room, open plan sitting area, dining room and kitchen, utility room, plant room, integral double garage and WC on the ground floor with 5 en-suite bedrooms and family room on the upper floors.

Outside mature gardens surround the property which are predominantly laid to lawn. Hedging has been planted which over time will provide a good degree of privacy. Large block paved driveway provides off road parking and space for a boat, caravan etc.

Andreas Road, Ramsey, Isle Of Man

£995,000

To arrange a viewing contact

Grays Estate Agency T: 678876 www.graysestateagents.com

In The News

Santander International partners with Noa Bakehouse to open a Santander Work Café in the Isle of Man

Santander International is to open a Santander Work Café in the Isle of Man at Old Market Hall, Douglas, next year.

The bank will partner with Noa Bakehouse to develop a café, meeting, events, and co-working space in the iconic building.

Noa Bakehouse will continue to run its popular café from the site, adding a new, grab-and-go menu for the meeting rooms and co-working areas, and a selection of artisanal food and drinks.

The Work Café will offer free bookable meeting rooms, and accessible co-working spaces with free Wi-Fi, alongside new banking facilities. Customers will be able to meet banking staff in the building, open and manage accounts and mortgages, and withdraw money using ATMs.

James Geldart, Managing Director, Isle of Man, said: ‘We’re looking forward to working with Noa Bakehouse to bring a Santander Work Café to the Isle of Man community. The Work Café will be accessible and open to all the community, creating a vibrant new hub for freelancers to work, entrepreneurs to meet, and for everyone to enjoy great food, drinks, and events. Pippa and Miles have a strong ethos for innovation and bring an amazing energy to the partnership.’

Since the launch of the first Santander Work Café in Chile in 2016, the bank has opened more than 100 Work Cafes around the world, including branches in Leeds and Jersey.

Noa, which means ‘fresh’ in Manx, was set up as a sourdough bakery by Pippa and Miles Pettit nearly 10 years ago. It has expanded into patisserie, coffee roasting, and hospitality while maintaining its focus on sustainable produce, procured through Direct Trade, or made in the Isle of Man.

Pippa Pettit, Co-owner, Noa Bakehouse, said: ‘This is an exciting project for us, and for the Isle of Man, building on the popularity of Noa and taking the Market Hall into the 21st century. The Work Café will allow us to go beyond brunch and scale up our business to bring Islanders a wider range of locally produced artisanal food and drinks.’

The the new Santander Work Café opening mid-2023. workcafe.im

Ground breaking ceremony for new £3 Million Sustainable site

A commitment by the Eastern District Joint Civic Amenity Site Committee to enhanced waste reduction and recycling has been celebrated at a ground-breaking ceremony.

Officers and politicians from all five authorities – Douglas, Onchan, Braddan, Santon and Garff - attended the event on the site of what will be the Island’s new £3 million Eastern Civic Amenity site at Middle Park in Braddan.

Designed to take waste and recycling, the facility is being built after the Committee confirmed the current operation in Pulrose, which is used by over half the Island’s population, is at maximum capacity.

Councillor Natalie Byron, a member of the Civic Amenity Site Committee, said: ‘The project demonstrates our commitment and the commitment of our friends in neighbouring authorities to waste reduction and recycling, and to establishing and maintaining innovative waste management infrastructure to protect the Island’s environment and society.

‘It is extremely positive to be in a position where we can officially mark the start of the construction of a development which will serve as a fine replacement for the existing amenity facility and be used by residents in Douglas, Onchan, Braddan, Santon and Garff.’

It will provide for the disposal of domestic waste and recycling, and will include improved features to those currently provided - a vehicle weighbridge, site office, re-use shed, skips and parking facilities.

Make energy efficiency your business.

The Business Energy Saving Scheme offers eligible businesses 100% interest free unsecured loans towards projects to make their operations more energy efficient and lower their energy costs.

The Business Improvement Scheme is available for businesses who would like to undertake an energy efficiency survey to help reduce their energy costs. HERE TO

KPMG in the Crown Dependencies are pleased to announce their new sponsorship with the Energy & Sustainability Centre (ESC) Isle of Man, creating a partnership that will empower a green future for the Island.

The new partnership will champion both organisations shared vision of a green transition and affordable energy through a variety of work including panels, events and courses.

The ESC is a non-profit educational institute that promotes education and collaboration between industry, government, academia and society. The new initiative, led by Ralph Peake, with scientific support from Dr Dave Quirk

and John Boucher, is striving to help the Isle of Man progress to a sustainable economy. The centre will work closely with the private and public sectors to educate people on the practicalities of reducing carbon emissions of greenhouse gases and champion the agenda in the public arena.

In line with KPMG’s public commitment to become a net-zero carbon organisation by 2030, the local firm is one of the founding partners of the Energy & Sustainability Centre joining others such as Zurich and The Peel Group. The centre’s vision for a green transition and affordable energy aligns with KPMG’s IMPACT plans, covering the firm’s commitments to create a positive change across four important pillars: Planet, People, Prosperity, and Governance.

As part of these plans, KPMG has been actively involved in local initiatives, which include their recent ‘Rainbow Allotment’ project, visiting primary schools to work with children to have fun, educate and promote sustainability by growing various vegetables in all shapes and sizes in their own rainbow planter. In addition, the firm joined forces with Manx Wildlife Trust earlier in the year, with the collective vision of

working together and using each other’s ‘knowhow’, to promote sustainability and climate change mitigation in the island.

Simon Nicholas, Head of ESG and Renewables at KPMG in the Crown Dependencies commented, “ESC shares our mission of helping the Isle of Man work towards a netzero future, so we’re delighted to be one of the institutes founding sponsors. Mitigating the effects of climate change is at the centre of KPMG’s IMPACT plan and we believe our collaboration will drive a brighter, greener, and happier future for our island’s people.”

He followed on by saying, “As well as transitioning the entire island and all lifestyles to a net zero way of living, it is critical to the economy and the protection of jobs that international businesses with commitments sooner than 2050 are supported and are able to achieve their objectives by 2030.”

Ralph Peake, Founder of the Energy & Sustainability Centre, comments, “With the Isle of Man committed to net zero emissions by 2050, the collaboration between the public and private sectors is crucial to meeting this target. The partnership with KPMG puts us in a stronger position to deliver on our goals of educating and advising on the practicalities of cutting emissions of greenhouse gases, and helping the island achieve its climate change commitments.”

www.energysustainabilitycentre.im

KPMG COLLABORATE WITH THE ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY CENTRE (ESC) TO FORGE NEW PARTNERSHIP

ZEDRA ISLE OF MAN PLANTS HUNDREDS OF TREESIN SUPPORT OF THE IoM WOODLAND TRUST

Financial services firm, ZEDRA Isle of Man, has planted hundreds of trees in support of local charity, The Isle of Man Woodland Trust.

ZEDRA, an international provider of Active Wealth, Global Expansion, Fund and Pension solutions, took part in the tree planning initiative with a number of employees participating from across the organisation.

The IoM Woodland Trust is an independent woodland trust and charity, established to protect and enhance existing woodland on the Isle of Man, and has also created many new areas of woodland, planting over 36,000 trees across the Isle of Man to date.

Joanna Mulhern, Managing Director at ZEDRA Isle of Man, said:

‘The team at ZEDRA was delighted to take part in this wonderful initiative. ZEDRA is committed to recognising and limiting the effect our company has on the environment, with sustainable practices sitting at the heart of our Corporate Social Responsibility agenda.

‘There is very much an office culture of recycling for items such as paper, milk cartons and batteries and we strive to encourage a paperless working environment where possible. We also implement a range of environmentally friendly practices in our offices, limiting the usage of single-use plastics. For example, crockery and cutlery are provided to replace plastic options.

‘On top of that, all staff have been given a personal water bottle and new employees receive a welcome pack that includes a grow your own desk plant and water bottle.

‘It was really positive to have so many of the team volunteer for the project. Not only did it provide an opportunity to give something back to the local environment but was an enjoyable and collaborative day out for the ZEDRA team.’

ZEDRA Isle of Man has signed up to become gold members of the Trust and another planting session is planed towards the end of the year.

The IoM Woodland Trust actively encourages members of the community and local corporate organisations to donate and take part in their charitable projects.

To find out more about the Trust’s tree planting initiatives, visit: https://woodlandtrust.im/get-involved/

Digitisation, local sport, and an evolving team: 15 years of SURE in the Isle of Man

Words Mike Phillips, Chief Executive of Sure Isle of Man

What do you remember about 2007? Perhaps you remember Gordon Brown becoming the UK’s last Labour Prime Minister, or NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft passing Jupiter, maybe you were off to the cinema to see Harry Potter’s fifth outing, in The Order of the Phoenix. For everyone at Sure, 2007 is a hugely significant date, as it’s when we launched in the Isle of Man

Since then, we’ve been on a journey that has cemented Sure as a part of island life. Our purpose is to connect our island communities and we’ve been proudly doing that since 2007. Back then, we were just a mobile provider working with the latest 2G EDGE technology. Now we’re a full-service ICT provider with an unmatched digital offering. So, if you’ll indulge me, I’d like to highlight a few key Sure achievements from the last 15 years:

Tech milestones in the transition from analogue to digital 2007 onwards represents an evolving digital age. Sites like YouTube were in their infancy, while 2G data connections were the norm for online connectivity. Over the coming years, Sure pioneered several developments that brought the latest technology to the Isle of Man. In 2010 we launched broadband services, representing our first shift from a solely telecommunications model into an ICT provider, reflecting our presence in Guernsey and Jersey. During this time, we also launched a dedicated Isle of Man call centre, ensuring our customers could voice their concerns and questions to local people with local knowledge.

2014 saw the introduction of Sure’s 4G network, greatly expanding the potential for connectivity, as mobile internet speeds grew faster than ever before, and smartphones were becoming a must for anyone looking to stay up to date with the latest technology. Of course, after strengthening our ethereal mobile network, just three years later we developed a Fibre Access Network for businesses on the island, greatly improving broadband connection speeds and giving the Isle of Man’s business community the connectivity they needed to conduct international business with a fast, reliable network.

Now, Sure Business offers an unmatched range of ICT products and services. While we remain best known for our telecommunications services, we have evolved to provide only the

best ICT products and solutions on the market, from secure Cloud-based storage solutions to products that counter the everpresent threat of cyber criminals and so much more. We are proud to count some of the Isle of Man’s most well-regarded enterprises among our client base and have no plans to slow down as the island continues its exciting digital transformation.

A growing team with growing ambition

It’s difficult to believe that the Sure Isle of Man team started out with a mere 15 employees. This small group developed our Isle of Man offering into something unique, providing local residents with an unrivalled digital offering. Some of our staff from this time are still a part of Sure today, such as James Hewitt, Edd Shimmin, and Steve Allan: congratulations on a fantastic milestone. I am immensely grateful for these three long servers and everyone else who have remained with the business and contributed to getting Sure Isle of Man to where we are today.

Becoming part of a remarkable community

One of the most heart-warming things about operating in the Isle of Man is the amazing sense of community – that we’re proud to be a part of. The Isle of Man TT is synonymous with the island: a hardy race for only the toughest competitors. We have been proud to support this event since our arrival in 2007, demonstrating our commitment to preserving not only local sport, but the cultural identity of the Isle of Man and its people. This is also why, as of this year, we’ve committed to become the partner of Manx Grand Prix, another essential event in the local sporting calendar.

Of course, sport is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of how we’ve supported our island home. We have also made sure that the Government’s digital infrastructure is the best it can be, providing access to a high-capacity, scalable, resilient internet service to meet the needs of employees and users. We won this contract in 2021 after an extensive tender process,

demonstrating Sure ‘s continued investment in local people and technology.

Looking back to look ahead

It’s remarkable to look back on what we have achieved, but I also want to make sure we keep looking forward. Our ambition is to keep innovating and serving the needs of our local customers

with our local team. We will evolve and adapt our service to make sure we remain a vital part of our island’s digital life for another 15 years and beyond.

The closing words of this short retrospective will never do justice to the number of great people and organisations who have made the past 15 years as successful as they have been for Sure. I’d therefore like to thank everyone who’s played a part in helping our business grow and getting us to where we are today. So, to all my colleagues, ex-colleagues, suppliers, government and of course customers: thank you and see you in 2037!

Hi-de-High

Words Ben Thorne

With all the talk about increasing the Island’s population to 100,000 by attracting economically active come-overs, and increasing the annual number of tourists to 500,000, I’m surely not the only one to think that if these workers are going to stay they need housing, entertainment, even shopping opportunities to spend their money on-Island. Those visitors need more than a few bikes and some decent weather – they too need accommodation and entertainment. But what if there’s something the Isle of Man could do to set itself apart, to make itself really different?

You might have heard that the Isle of Man government commissioned a report – more than one actually – from KPMG in the Crown Dependencies, which, in its own words, ‘helps clients to meet challenges and respond to opportunities.’ And half way through ‘Our Big Picture’, released in June, the consultants at KPMG have stuck their necks out with this paragraph:

‘Develop the Island as a location for cannabis-based tourism from neighbouring jurisdictions. While recreational use of cannabis in the UK and Ireland remains illegal, liberation of the law on the Island would attract visitors.’ What they didn’t say was, ‘ker-ching!’

You might roll your eyes, but is this as far out as first it seems? The Isle of Man is setting itself up as a major production centre for cannabis exports: there is already a detailed regulatory framework to allow commercial operators to grow, manufacture, distribute and EXPORT cannabis products under license, and one pharmacy has been awarded a licence to import and dispense certain cannabis products for medicinal use. Yet despite all this it remains illegal to cultivate, produce, supply, possess, import or export cannabis for recreational use. So the Island can export and import MEDICINAL cannabis yet continues to fine and imprison people for growing their own for personal use. Forget the recognisable scent of marijuana, is there a slight whiff of hypocrisy around too?

Cannabis is the third most commonly used controlled substance worldwide, after alcohol and nicotine, with a 2018 NHS report finding that almost one in five (19%) of 15-year-olds in England had used cannabis in the previous 12 months.

Cannabis tourism (according to Forbes magazine) is set to be a £17 billion industry so why shouldn’t the Isle of Man cash in? Decriminalising cannabis use for residents would be a start – evidence shows that it is so much less harmful than alcohol, and Gen X, Z and the rest actually drink less than their parents anyway, many of them preferring to chill out with a joint, vape or muffin! And if possession for personal use was decriminalised for residents, then why not go the whole hog and legalise it? And then open the Island up to cannabis tourists too.

The states of the USA which have legalised recreational cannabis could be an example – it is illegal to transport cannabis over state lines (or in our case, the Irish Sea) so imagine a regulated, licensed Dope Shack at the Sea Terminal or Weed Emporium in the Arrivals lounge at the airport – and watch the government rub its hands in glee at the taxes those would bring in.

And other parts of the economy would benefit too. The US website Bud and Breakfast www.budandbreakfast.com links cannabis-using tourists together with sympathetic hotels, inns, residences and resorts: ‘For too long the only options for responsible cannabis-using travellers were the most basic facilities with minimal features and amenities. Bud and Breakfast goes beyond the hostels and campgrounds to find marijuana lodging that’s equal to the high quality of world-class rooms and accommodation in top vacation destinations.’ And a quick look at some of the accommodation listed backs up this claim: yurts, private residences and hotels to upwards of $500 per night – forget the stereotype hippies and dope-heads gathered round the campfire strumming their guitars, these are some high-end, well-off tourists. If the Island was to concentrate on them, the benefits to the tourist economy would go far beyond the few weeks of racing and weather-

dependent outdoor pursuits it promotes now. These cannabis tourists might be interested in the racing, they might want to paddle-board in Port Erin, they might want to visit the heritage sites, but most of all they want their cannabis experiences to be safe and legal.

Yes, of course it would have to be carefully regulated but regulations are something the Island is good at. It’s no accident that the licenses being granted to medicinal cannabis exporters and prescribers are regulated by the Gambling Supervision Board – the department which brought us the thriving E-gaming sector with its myriad regulatory issues crossing International borders.

A Government consultation in 2019 showed strong support for medical cannabis being available to the public from accredited dispensaries. This has been done (in a limited form – one pharmacy, private prescriptions only – and still no sign of Manx Care or the DHSC following the NICE guidelines to GPs on prescribing medical cannabis in the NHS) and a review into illicit drugs on the Island with a specific focus on cannabis has just been announced. This is due to be delivered by Sept 2023 and presented to Tynwald in January 2024. That’s less than two years

‘Commercial operators can grow, manufacture, distribute and export cannabis products under license’

away. Decriminalising cannabis for personal use might be sooner than you think.

It would be similar to decriminalising homosexuality in 1992 and decriminalising abortion in 2019 – and would set the Island apart from its neighbours. And just like with homosexuality and abortion, there will be naysayers and objectors but if even KPMG recognises the benefits of cannabis tourism surely the scientists, the psychologists and sociologists and our expert regulators and legislators can see them too.

And if you’re not too busy thinking this’ll never happen, why not let the IOM Government know what you think about cannabis tourism or any other part of the Draft Economic Strategy ‘Our Island, Our Future’? The public consultation is open until 30 September. www.gov.im/economicstrategy

And once you’ve done that sit back, inhale and relaxe.

Isle of Man Steam Packet company crewmember promoted to master

Adam Kelso has been promoted to the rank of Master on the Ben-my-Chree.

Born and raised on the Isle of Man, Adam joined the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company in October 2021, fulfilling a life-long dream. He follows in the footsteps of his father, who was a Chief Engineer with the Company for many years.

Adam began his career with the Steam Packet Company as a Second Mate, having completed his studies in Nautical Science at Fleetwood Nautical College. With the support of the Company, Adam completed his Chief Mate’s Ticket, before commencing studies for his Master Mariner certification, in December 2021.

Working on a week on/week off rotation, Adam completed his 8 weeks of training on 8 June 2022, and took up his first command earlier this summer.

As Master, Adam has overall responsibility for the safety of life, safety of the vessel, and safety of the environment. He’s also responsible for ensuring the vessel is compliant with both international and local regulations.

Managing Director of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, Brian Thomson commented: ‘Adam’s achievement will be a great inspiration to anyone considering a career at sea. The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is proud to support such a dedicated and talented member of the team, in achieving his ambitions. We wish Adam many happy years of sailing with the Company.’

Wilton Isle of Man welcomes two new recruits

Wilton has welcomed two new recruits to its Douglas office.

Summer Moughtin and Patrick Ferrer both join the company after successfully completing their A-level studies on the Island.

Patrick discovered a passion for client services when he landed his first role as an administrator. Since then, he has progressed through Business Management and Reporting to his current role as Family Office & Business Support Administrator, a position which has allowed him to develop direct relationships with clients and learn more about other industries.

For Summer, as stressful as lockdown was, it offered time to reflect on opportunities and potential career paths. An A-level in Business Studies provided her with useful insight for her new post in financial services, and as Wilton Isle of Man is such a supportive and encouraging organisation, there is real scope for career development. Summer already enjoys the varied nature of her work at the Company and, like Patrick, has found great fulfilment in establishing her own client connections.

Wilton CEO, Tony Flanagan, commented: ‘When you start out in your first full-time role, it should be an exciting time in your life when you’re constantly making new discoveries and the possibilities are endless. At Wilton we are passionate about supporting our young team members in achieving their career ambitions, and it’s a pleasure to have such enthusiastic new recruits on board as Patrick and Summer.’

EAT

Words Martin Malone Simply Nutrition Personal Trainer/ Sports Nutritionist

One of my most vivid memories as a child is my Mum constantly nagging me at dinner time – ‘Eat your greens’. I’m pretty sure she didn’t really know the name of all the incredible nutrients in the fruit and veg she was putting on my plate and in my lunch box but instinctively she knew it was good for me, as did her Mum and her Mum before her.

Ioften use the supermarket analogy and compare the fruit and veg aisle to the cereal aisle.

The cereal isle is one of the most colourful in a supermarket. Lots of bright, eye-catching colours and health claims to draw you in. Almost every box has some form of health claim – heart healthy, lowers cholesterol, fortified with vitamins, sugar free, high in fibre, gut healthy… the list goes on. In contrast, walk down the fruit and veg isle and you will see all the same bright, eye-catching colours but you won’t see a fancy marketing label or health claim in sight. We just instinctively know that all these amazing foods are good for us.

Okay, so we know fruit and veg is good for us but why?

Or bodies require a diverse range of essential vitamins and minerals (nutrients) to stay in optimal health. All of them are found in the food we eat, particularly fruit and veg, so if we don’t eat enough of these foods or we eat a very narrow range of them (quite common), we will become deficient. Many of us, including kids, are deficient in one or more essential nutrients and we don’t even know it as the body is very good at ‘making do’. Over time, these deficiencies can become problematic and lead to disease in adults and kids. The link between serious disease and poor nutrition is well established.

Fruit and veg is loaded with essential nutrients and phytochemicals, which are biologically active substances that keep the body functioning properly and help lower your risk of stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cancer.

So how do you avoid becoming deficient in these essential nutrients?

You could of course take a multivitamin, and yes that would help, but the right answer is much better, you just need to eat a wide variety of fruit and veg every day. You can now see why the ‘5 a day’ guideline makes sense and eating 5 or more portions of fruit and veg every day is something everyone should try and achieve.

Let’s use vitamin C (also known as ascorbic) as a good example to demonstrate the importance of not becoming deficient. Viatmin C is one of the most familiar nutrients and one of the most important. It is found in most fruit and veg and is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including

formation of collagen, absorption of iron, protection of blood vessels, the proper functioning of the immune system, wound healing and the maintenance of cartilage and bones. Humans, primates and the fruit bat are amongst the few species on earth that cannot manufacture vitamin C in the body so it must be obtained from the food they eat, namely fruit and veg. The recommended daily amount (RDA) of vitamin C for an average adult under NHS guidelines is 40mg per day. To put that into context, an average fresh orange has about 50mg. Okay, so you eat one orange and you’re covered. Not quite! 40mg is the absolute minimum required to stop you getting scurvy (scurvy is very serious and eventually leads to death), which is why RDAs can sometimes be misleading. The optimal level of vitamin C is many times higher than 40mg and even higher at times of stress or during illness. Therefore, I’m afraid one orange per day simply doesn’t cut it.

And don’t think that frozen or canned fruit and veg are inferior. When you compare them to fresh alternatives, there’s not much difference from a nutrition standpoint. In fact, most frozen and canned products are processed within hours of being harvested so their nutritional value is high and can often be higher than some fresh fruit and veg. As well as all the wonderful nutrients in fruit and veg, they contain lots of fibre, which fills you up and keeps your gut healthy and functioning properly. Fibre rich veg include broccoli, cauliflower, peas and artichokes. High fibre fruits include raspberries, pears, apples, bananas, oranges, strawberries and many more. This fibre will keep you feeling fuller for longer and can be very helpful in maintaining a healthy bodyweight.

So now that you know a little bit more about why fruit and veg is so good for you, have a think about how you can introduce more of it into your diet and reap the health benefits. Your body will thank you for it!

The recommended daily amount (RDA) of vitamin C for an average adult under NHS guidelines is 40mg per day.

Top 10 GreatestBritish sporting moments

With England Women’s fantastic victory in the 2022 European Championships still fresh in our memories, we at IFGL reflected on what were Britain’s greatest ever sporting moments. There were a lot to choose from, and we’ve had to leave out some amazing achievements. Let us know at info@ifg-ltd.com if you agree with our choices, shown in no particular order below.

1. “They think it’s all over… it is now”

Before the Lionesses stunning win in July, you have to go back to 1966 to find a British nation winning a major international football tournament. Also at Wembley, and also against (West) Germany, the England’s men’s team, inspired by a Geoff Hurst hat-trick, first “brought football back home” in the 1966 World Cup Final. We’d endure another 56 “years of hurt” before another British football team triumphed.

2. Roger Bannister breaks the 4-minute mile barrier

Many thought running a mile in under 4 minutes – an average speed of 15 mph - was beyond what the human body was capable of. On 6 May 1954, after several near misses, Bannister entered a mile race in Oxford. Helped by 2 pace-makers, Bannister hit the front at the start of the final lap and flew down the final straight, almost collapsing over the finish line. The stadium announcer (Norris WcWhirter, who later became famous through the Guinness Book of World Records) told the ecstatic crowd that Bannister won the race in a time of 3 minutes, 59.4 seconds.

3. “England have won the World Cup, by the barest of margins”

After being losing finalists 3 times, England’s cricketers entered the 2019 Cricket World Cup ranked number 1 in the world, and with home advantage. Led by Irishman Eoin Morgan, England faced New Zealand in the final. Chasing down 243, England, thanks to MOTM Ben Stokes, tied the score off the final ball. This set up a super-over decider. New Zealand needed 2 off the final ball to win. Martin Guptill hit the ball into the deep and raced off, the throw from the boundary was speared into the gloves of Joss Buttler who whipped the bails off a few inches before a despairing Guptill made his ground. England were world champions.

4. Murray breaks 77 year voodoo by winning Wimbledon

Andy Murray was a serial grand slam finalist who seemed destined to be the nearly man. A year previously, a tearful Murray lost the Wimbledon final to Roger Federer. 12 months later he was determined to be the first British man to win the men’s title since Fred Perry in 1936. Seeded number 2, Murray faced his nemesis and number 1 seed Novak Djokovic in the final. Cheered on by a partisan home crowd Murray triumphed in 3 sets on a sunny Centre Court, winning on his 4th match point. Murray won Wimbledon again in 2016.

5. Britain’s greatest Paralympian Tanni Grey-Thompson can justifiably lay claim to be Britain’s greatest Paralympic athlete and one of Britain’s finest ever sportspeople. Born with spina bifida in Cardiff, Wales, Tanni became a wheelchair athlete in 1984. In a stellar 23 year career Tanni won 16 Paralympic medals (11 of them gold), held over 30 world records and won the London Marathon 6 times in 10 years. Her crowning achievement was the 1992 Paralympics in Barcelona, where she won a clean-sweep of golds in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m events, smashing 4 world records along the way.

6. Torvill and Dean wow judges with their Bolero routine

Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean were hot favourites to win gold in the Ice Dancing event at the 1984 Winter Olympics, held in Sarajevo. Leading after the first 2 rounds, Torvill and Dean took to the ice in their purple costumes and waited in the centre of the rink as the crowd hushed. The first few notes of Ravel’s Bolero started playing and they began their mesmerising routine. 4 minutes later they left the ice to a standing ovation. The judges agreed – all 9 judges scored them 6.0 out of 6 for artistic impression, the first time a perfect score had been achieved.

7. Johnny Wilkinson kicks England to extratime victory

In common with all of England’s other sporting final triumphs, the Martin Johnson led England rugby team in 2003 secured their victory in extra time. Despite being the stronger team in the final against tournament hosts Australia, England were consistently pegged back and the game went into overtime. With only seconds remaining, and the scores tied at 17 – 17, scrum half Matt Dawson threw a precise pass to England fly-half Johnny Wilkinson. Forced to take the chance on his weaker right foot, Wilkinson’s drop goal was struck perfectly between the posts, and England became the first (and so far only) northern hemisphere side to win the Webb Ellis trophy.

8. Team GB’s goldrush on “Super Saturday”

Despite all the pre-Games pessimism, the London Summer Olympics of 2012 was a huge success. From the vibrant Danny Boyle opening ceremony, featuring the Queen and 007 Daniel Craig jumping out of an aeroplane over the Olympic stadium, the country embraced the Olympic spirit. Britain’s athletes responded, winning an unprecedented 65 medals (29 of them gold). The crowning glory was the middle “Super Saturday”, when in the space of an unforgettable 44 minutes Team GB won 3 gold medals through Jess Ennis, Greg Rutherford and Mo Farah.

9. Lisbon Lions become Britain’s first European Cup winners

In a tough call between Matt Busby’s Manchester United in 1968 and Sir Alex Fergusson’s magnificent treble in 1999, we’ve gone for Celtic becoming the first British team to win the European Cup in 1967 as our greatest ever football club achievement. Celtic faced European giants Inter Milan in the final in Lisbon. Despite going behind in the 7th minute, Celtic were the better team and came back to win 2-1. Remarkably, in today’s world of multi-national club teams, it’s sobering to think that the winning Celtic team were all born within 10 miles of Celtic Park in Glasgow.

10. Lionesses roar to victory

We’re still basking in this latest triumph, as the England women team deservedly overcame serial winners Germany in a tense European Championship final. Players like Georgia Stanway, Beth Mead and Leah Williamson went from being virtually unknown at the start of the tournament to household names as women’s football came of age, with record breaking attendances and intense public interest. The sight of Chloe Kelly wheeling away in delight, her shirt whirling above her head after scoring the winning goal, has already become an iconic sporting moment.

WORDS Russ Atkinson

IF YOU’RE OLD ENOUGH TO REMEMBER THE COLOURFUL FLEET OF MOKE HIRE CARS THAT WERE STILL CIRCULATING DURING THE NINETIES, RESPLENDENT IN THEIR STRIPED, DECKCHAIR-ESQUE ROOF COVERS, YOU MIGHT HAVE A SOFT SPOT FOR THIS LITTLE STRIPPED-DOWN MILITARY VEHICLE CONCEPT THAT FLOPPED AND REBOUNDED INTO THE CIVILIAN MARKET.

Just like every other ugly ducking from the past, the oddball Moke that was once abundant and almost universally unloved by everyone, except holidaymakers who’d happily rent one for entertainment value during the summer months, now commands an almost mind-boggling amount of money to own. And as with the plethora of other vehicles that’ve now become unobtainable to many, a combination of limited supply, fond memories and the people who’ve either owned, or wanted to own one in the past now having

significantly more disposable income is to answer for this. Even finding a moke shell these days is tough enough, and if you’re not mechanically minded and are hankering after a Mini minus a hardtop, you’ve got to pay to play. It isn’t all doom and gloom though, because for the lack of original Mokes still in existence there’s a new supply to be found both on our doorstep and if you extend your search further afield to the west and over the Atlantic ocean, and both kinds feature a contemporary twist.

Moke America’s offering is surprisingly affordable in the grand scheme of Moke values too, believe it or not. And by ‘surprisingly affordable’ I mean to say that, with a few optional extras - and yes, that’s a thing even though the Moke is such a stripped-back vehicle by its very nature - you can order one for under twenty grand. Sterling, that is. Then there’s shipping it over here. Having said all of that, they do produce right-hand-drive models as every e-Moke is built to order, so at least you’ll get to sit on the ‘correct’ side while silently speeding around.

By speeding, of course, I actually mean ‘traveling at speeds of up to 25mph’, because that’s as fast as they go. Unless you’re trying to tackle inclines of over 20%, in which case this reduces to around 15mph. Range wise, there’s enough to just about get around our coastline before the battery is completely depleted and a full charge takes around eight hours. This is all down to the use of gel batteries, which are relatively primitive by today’s lithium-ion standards, so while its exterior has a retro feel about it, well, so does the technology hidden beneath.

“IF THESE RESTRICTIONS HAVE SHATTERED YOUR TOPLESS DREAMS, FEAR NOT! MOKE INTERNATIONAL ALSO OFFER AN ELECTRIC MODEL, BUT WITH A MUCH LESS DISAPPOINTING 62MPH TOP SPEED AND FOUR HOUR CHARGE TIME - SO BASICALLY TWICE AS GOOD / HALF AS PAINFUL TO ENDURE THAN THE US-PRODUCED MODEL. HURRAH!”

If these restrictions have shattered your topless tin dreams, fear not! Moke International, who’ve held the vehicle trademarks since 2015 and supply the chassis to Moke America also offer an electric model, but with a much less disappointing 62mph top speed and four hour charge time - so basically twice as good / half as painful to endure than the US-produced model. Hurrah! These benefits do come at a cost, however, in terms of both time and financial outlay. Release is slated for ‘Summer/Autumn 2022’ but there’s likely a bit of a waiting list (which you can join at mokeinternational.com) and the starting price will be £29,150 for the base model.

To put things into perspective, if you’re up for a project, a quick look online at the time of writing revealed half-decent examples requiring work from £7,500, usable, tidy models hovering around the £20k mark and a full-restored ‘original’ example - with what appear to be late-nineties Mini Sportpack Minilite-style wheels fitted - currently advertised for £35,000. So, on balance, it seems that the market price for an electric Moke with equivalent performance to the original A-Series powered models is about right. A far cry from their original stripped back, utilitarian and costeffective roots, yes, but as a fun little commuter and weekend car if you have the disposable cash? If it inspires people to switch to electric, then I’m all for it. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; yes, I’m a petrolhead, but yes, anyone buying a new car should seriously consider making it an electric one. It’s the future. Unless hydrogen takes off, that is...

All images are of Moke International models

Following hot on the heels of the Samsung S22 mobile phone, our last Gadget of the Month, is another outstanding offering from Samsung: the fantastic Galaxy Book2.

Ultra sleek and slim in a full aluminium body, this lightweight laptop packs a lot of punch for a machine that weighs just 1.16kg.

With a 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processor for fast performance and a solid state drive for storage, this is a powerful package which comes with a long-lasting battery and a full complement of ports for peripheral devices.

If you are already a Galaxy phone user, you can use Quick Share to share files to other Galaxy devices

while a new Private Share option allows you to encrypt files using blockchain technology for extra security.

You can also connect your mobile apps to the Galaxy Book2 through Link to Windows which provides a seamless inter-device experience for the ultimate convenience. Use Recent Apps to open what you just enjoyed from your phone right onto your PC!

The Galaxy Book2 also comes with lots of other features to make your life easier. This include voice command through the Bixby virtual assistant. Catch up with the weather, time or your appointments – you can even control SmartThingscompatible devices from your PC with Bixby.

Boasting an HD camera, clear audio with Dolby Atmos and great sound with a dual mic, video calling is a breeze with the Book2. Plus Samsung’s “studio mode” will always makes you look professional by auto framing the screen or blurring the background – a handy feature if you are calling from a messy office or home!

For more information call 624624 or go directly online today at https://shop.manxtelecom.com/ Book2:

A great read all round, the Samsung Galaxy Book2 can be yours with a Manx Telecom deal starting from £38 per month over 24 months. Subject to availability and credit check and while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply.

EVENT ORGANISERS.

Isle of Man Hairdressers, Colour Specialists & Beauty Therapy Expert

Magnificence Hair & Beauty are a recognised 5-Star salon, the first in the Isle of Man to be awarded with the accolade by the Good Salon Guide

Our 5 Star hairdressers and beauty therapist are trained to listen and can offer you the best hair and beauty services around. Magnificence is also the first salon to be awarded by HABIA as an Isle of Man’s trans ally salon.

We have wedding hair by Maggie Thompson, fashion colours by Lisa Downey, nails by beauty therapist, Sarah Kewley, along with massage, facials, lash / eyebrow tinting and Elim Medipeel pedicures. Hair extensions and colour by Lisa Petrie (seen in main picture) and hair by trained barber Tom McMahon.

We believe in equality and have a no judgement policy because every one of our clients deserve to feel magnificent. We are a guaranteed safe space for all cultures and identities.

If you are looking for a 5 Star Awarded Hairdresser in the Isle of Man, call to Book your Free Consultation now on 01624 667997

Become a member on our website and get a £10 voucher which can be used to purchase treatments and products.

All the entertainment you need under the one roof!

The unique appeal of The Courthouse on Athol Street is that it is such a versatile venue. Entering through the imposing frontage of this magnificent Grade II listed property, you can chill in the upstairs bar, have a relaxing meal with friends and as the evening gathers pace, ramp up the vibe by heading downstairs to the nightclub.

Bar

For the Courthouse, great choice of drinks and cocktails has always been on the menu. The bar area boosts a great atmosphere for a night out with friends where you can relax or party in one of the large or intimate booths. You can enjoy a big screen for watching daily live football matches, special themed nights and DJs at the weekends.

Coffee with friends or clients in an open space is available from 11 am daily. Food is served in the Bar on weekdays from 12 pm - 5 pm. Take advantage of a quick lunch for £9.90. On Sunday you can tuck into a Sunday roast sitting at a table in the bar area or within the Meating Steakhouse restaurant.

Open daily 11 am - 2 am

Meating Steakhouse Restaurant

How do you find a restaurant where ANGUS BEEF, MANX BEEF, IRISH BEEF and a welcoming service are always on the menu? Look no further than the Meating Steakhouse at The Courthouse.

The Meating Steakhouse is a stylish and relaxed location to enjoy excellent steaks, 28 days aged and cooked on a real charcoal grill. Treat yourself and try the 24k Golden Tomahawk steak. Wagyu, Game or Halal meat is also availabe with notice at time of booking.

Call 672555 to make a reservation.

Nightclub

The young crowd, out for a good time, will always remain the Club’s primary audience. But not to the exclusion of all others! The interior lends itself to eclectic musical tastes, so it can work just as well for jazz evenings, unplugged nights and special themed evenings.

The club has nine individually coloured booths, varying in size accommodating a total of 55 people, with the biggest booths taking up to eight at a time. A visually stunning experience that’s positively Blade Runner-esque!

A magnet for big name DJs over the last decade, the club has reverberated to a fantastic

mix of music, featuring some of the top DJs in the business, including Carl Cox, Judge Jules, DJ Yoda, Lisa Lashes and Norman J. Performers of this calibre are sure to be back – with more big names in the pipeline.

You needn’t be a night owl to enjoy the benefits of The Courthouse Nightclub!

The venue is multi-purpose welcoming host that can comfortably accommodate up to 250 people, making it the perfect place for private functions such as business events, club or society meetings.

Open 11 pm – 3 am

Private & Corporate Parties Welcome

The Courthouse is ideal for private parties, birthdays, business meetings/ event, Christmas parties and general celebrations. Enjoy a cocktail or glass of proesecco on arrival in the bar area, a delicious meal in the Meating Steakhouse 100 seat restaurant, and dance the night away in the 250 person nightclub.

The overall result: 2500 square feet of pulsating, captivating special space – a multi-purpose venue that’s sure to tick all your entertainment boxes.

LIFE & STYLE IN THE ISLE OF MAN

The Isle of Man’s finest Restaurant, Bar & Club VenueThe Isle of Man’s finest Restaurant, Bar & Club Venue