December/Winter 2017 | the WONDER issue

Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no. 71 | December 2017 | the [WONDER] issue

£ priceless

#71 #70

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Come and enjoy the largest Christmas display on the Island, with themed festive areas, the Cave of Lights, Christmas Tree Park and have a visit to our Winter Wonderland and have yourself a little selfie with santa!

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

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Clare Bowie Wendy Shimmin Michelle Tonnesen Linda Huxley Anne Berry Sam New Maria Hill Jessica Ledger Grant Runyon Les Able Suzy Holland Rebecca Lawrence Adam Jazard Rachel Green Theo Leworthy Anne Moorhouse Leon Flemming Richard Evans Andrew Low Lisa Gadman

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

EDITO

UPFRONT

#71

[WONDER]

Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no. 71 | December 2017 | the [WONDER] issue

ÂŁ priceless

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#71 #70

the !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WONDER issue the issue BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

WWW.GALLERY.CO.IM

agenda

n

ON THE AGENDA n DECEMBER 2017

INVESTMENT- WONDERLAND INVESTMENTS

BUSINESS - FIRST AMONG PEERS

TECHNOLOGY - TECHNOLOGICAL BUNGLE

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

edito

used to live a large proportion of my life in coffee shops. The life of a freelancer that can't afford an office is, on one hand, a desperate mission to find comfy window seats, free wifi and good coffee and, on the other, the most liberating and free feeling you could wish to have as part of your working life. It took me around the world too, stashing laptops in hostel basements between work days. I loved getting strange looks from locals as I'd download the whole of Adobe Creative Suite on a shared computer in an internet cafe in some far flung South American town to work on someone's brand or marketing strategy. It was wonderful.

In the years I've lived in the isle of Man I've seen a lot of people progress and transition through that stage. Initially they were the ones that sat on the same bench as you beavering away on stickered laptops. Now they're professionals that have probably planted some roots and bought themselves a few bits of furniture, either in a co-working space or in an office in which they've taken on the world in some creative way or another.

I draw attention to this only as I'm back there today, sitting in a cafe, getting a few hours out of the office on deadline and considered the theme, wonder, and what it means to me.

We've got our usual theme adherent features in the pages beyond this one, some that cast a wry eye on the wonder of Christmas, some that profile amazing people doing wonderful things. Tis the season to go late night shopping, so we have a local gift guide on (p.100107). These are presents you can go and actually collect, in the flesh, even on Christmas Eve if you're lucky. I'm looking at you, gentlemen. Sure, everyone buys online these days but this is Christmas and I don't trust the supply chain that ends in couriers any further than they could throw your parcels.

As I watch people walk past in every which way from my coffee shop vantage point I can't help but wonder of what constitutes wonder for them at this time of year. Whether it's a Christmas with family unwrapping presents, the annual liberation of karaoke at the office party or the ticket to bolt to the snow at the first available opportunity. Maybe just the wonder that is being warm, fed, loved or just alive to breathe the fresh Isle of Man winter air. It is a wonderful place, never forget it.

See you next year.

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Photographer and Styling: Shan Fisher Model: Maria Frize Makeup Artist: Heather Maddrell Hairstylist: Kayleigh Walker Location: Shan Fisher Photography Studio

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UPFRONT

CONTENTS PICKS UPFRONT

UPFRONT

The Shopper Everybody knows one, this person lives to shop! The term “6 weeks to go” means nothing to them because Christmas shopping is an ongoing 52-week-long affair.

They probably have a designated wrapping station in the spare room, an “emergency present” stash that would make Santa weep and they will never experience a sellotape shortage situation. They know about all the sales, tricks, codes and markets in the Northern Hemisphere; and Black Friday is, well, most Fridays actually.

Least likely to say: “Ho, Ho, how much???!!”

Most likely to say: “I’ll take 10 of them, because... Christmas!”

WHICH CHRISTMAS PERSONALITY ARE YOU?

The Foodie It’s ALL about the food with this one; their dream is to invent an edible organic Christmas tree. Don’t expect a tin of Quality Street or a scented candle from them; it will be chorizo jam or macadamia and cranberry cookies with a bottle of spiced arancello, all wrapped in environmentally conscious newspaper. Although the food is delicious you sometimes mourn a simple turkey and trifle dinner as you tuck into your (Instagrammed) baba ganoush, roast squab pigeon with brussel sprout foam and a deconstructed gluten-free-biscuit-based spiced ginger cheesecake.

Words Clare Bowie

Least likely to say: “I just bought the sauce in M&S.” Most likely to say: “I can’t believe I only did two trial runs of the spiced stolen plait.” #facepalm

The Can’t Really Be Bothered One It’s all such an effort; the presents, the fuss, the jumpers and the excessive family time. Festivity is so not their forte and decorations don’t get a look in. They somehow manage to charmingly persuade everyone to buy their own presents and

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promise to reimburse them later. Or, they commit to a few clicks on-line and it’s all done, dusted, wrapped and delivered.

On Christmas Day they can usually be found snoring on the sofa after convincing someone to top up their baileys all day.

They then leave with all the leftovers in Tupperware that will never be seen again.

Least likely to say: “Sit down and I’ll do the washing up.”

Most likely to say: “The turkey was a bit dry though.”

The Perfectionist You can hardly bear to visit their house because your own home always feels like a shabby shack afterwards. In fact, their home makes Liberty’s feel underdressed.

It is a glorious understated yet achingly contemporary winter wonderland of encased linen tea lights, a hint of distressed holly and a shed load of classy elegance. *weeps again* There is an extreme sense of calm and a laminated spreadsheet will probably be ticked off somewhere in the background and address labels neatly stuck onto cards, that are most likely hand painted. Sigh!

Least likely to say: “Have you seen my gold tinsel?”

Most likely to say: “I’ve just hand carved a new crib scene”.

The Re-Gifter If it’s on eBay they want it. “What goes around comes around” is their favourite phrase for presents, rather than a Karmic philosophy to live by. It’s hard to get excited by their vintage approach to Christmas but at least you know to prepare yourself when you get a gift from them, so you can say, “Thanks, this is so useful”, instead of; “Erm, isn’t this your old purse?!”

They always tells you the origin of the gift, “It’s a great book, got me through some bad times”, or “I actually got this free when I bought new skincare”. Um, thanks?

WANDERLUST

WANDERLUST TRAVEL

TRAVEL

The Traditionalist They love Christmas and all its many trimmings, as long as it’s done in exactly the same way every year. Christmas always comes out of the loft on the same date; the Bing Crosby’s go on and the decorations go in exactly the same places, not to be removed until the wise men have arrived thank you very much. The Queen will receive their undivided at 3pm and there will be no last minute menu changes or varaitions. Any talk of pancetta with the sprouts will be dismissed and all the nice wine disappears as numerous bottles of sticky sherry, baileys and brandy appear instead.

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WORDS Rebecca Evans WORDS Rebecca Evans

Most likely to say: “More fruit cake?”

this, Wonder issue, thoughts naturally turned ForFor this, thethe Wonder issue, mymy thoughts naturally turned to the Seven Wonders of the World.

Unfortunately to the Seven Wonders of the World.

Unfortunately thethe Pyramid in Giza is the only ancient wonder to see, Pyramid in Giza is the only ancient wonder leftleft to see, whilst a 2007 worldwide of 100 million people andand whilst a 2007 worldwide pollpoll of 100 million people declared a ‘New’ Seven, including Mahal, Roman declared a ‘New’ Seven, including thethe Taj Taj Mahal, Roman Colosseum Great Wall of China, it seems to me Colosseum andand Great Wall of China, it seems to me likelike 1 1 some of these have been a bit ‘done’ now.

(You only some of these have been a bit ‘done’ now.

(You only Diving Silfra, Iceland need to spend 10 minutes on Tinder or Instagram Diving Silfra, Iceland need to spend 10 minutes on Tinder or Instagram to to When you think of scuba diving you think of scuba diving you you come to the conclusion at least of people have Whenmight come to the conclusion thatthat at least 75%75% of people have imagine tropical turquoise waters, might imagine tropical turquoise waters, been to Machu Picchu already). colourful fishbright and bright but one been to Machu Picchu already). colourful fish and coral,coral, but one

Least likely to say: “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.”

Most likely to say: “See you next year, suckers.”

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BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Lesser known that Victoria or Nigara, but no less jaw-dropping, Iguaza Falls marking the border between Brazil and Argentina is a chain of hundreds of individual waterfalls extending almost 3km and plunging over 82 metres at their highest point. Over a million visitors a year visit the falls, with the best time being spring or autumn, combining the best weather with the highest water levels. A series of walkways, trails and bridges offer close up views, and the intrepid can book a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view, or take an exhilarating wet & wild speedboat ride around and under the base of the falls.

4 The Northern Lights, Finnish Lapland

Now there are plenty of places on earth from which you may have a chance of spotting the spectacular but illusive Northern Lights, but one of the most wondrous has to be from Finnish Lapland. The Kakslautten resort, 250km north of the Arctic Circle is where to head in order to avoid standing outside in the cold, getting neck-ache as you gape into the sky. Here you can observe the aurora from the comfort of your bed, in one of the cosy and unique glass-roofed cabins. Rumour has it you don’t even need to stay awake, as a member of staff will come and knock your door as soon as the lights become visible.

“The crystal clear glacial melt “The crystal clear glacial melt water provides 100 water provides upup to to 100 metres visibility, more than metres of of visibility, more than enough showcase aweenough to to showcase thethe aweinspiring rock formations and inspiring rock formations and spectrum colours.” spectrum of of colours.”

The Alternative One They book a fortnight in Mauritius and fly off on December 20th.

Most likely to say: “I still use my mini screwdrivers from last year’s Crackers.”

3 Iguazu Falls, Brazil

1 1

Most likely to say. “I’m fffiiiiinnnnneeee”

Least likely to say: “I bought you the cashmere gloves.”

(Please note that due to the treacherous nature of our coast, bioluminesence walks MUST be undertaken with a guide. See www.jerseywalkadventures.co.uk for details & bookings)

of the best and most unique dive sites Incase, any case, as impressive as these ancientadmiration, admiration, and googling the flight next flight of the best and most unique dive sites In any as impressive as these ancient and googling of theofnext on earth is quite different. Silfra fissure and wonders new wonders the world are, I’ve leaving for Brazil, I bring a selection on earth is quite different. Silfra fissure and new of theofworld are, I’ve leaving for Brazil, I bring you ayou selection in Iceland, situated within Thingvellier always a believer that anything of alternative wonders and phenomenons, in Iceland, situated within Thingvellier always been been a believer that anything of alternative wonders and phenomenons, National Park, is a fascinating sub-aquatic humans canMother do, Mother nature naturally occurring, magnificent National Park, is a fascinating sub-aquatic humans can do, nature can can each each naturally occurring, each each magnificent chasm between the Eurasian and North probably do better, so the withhelp the of help of some its way, own and way,all and be experienced chasm between the Eurasian and North probably do better, so with some in itsin own toall beto experienced American tectonic plates, widens American tectonic plates, whichwhich widens better-travelled-than-me friends, onlittle this little of we rockcall weEarth. call Earth. muchmuch better-travelled-than-me friends, on this lumplump of rock by around 2cmyear. per year.

Experienced by around 2cm per Experienced and after debate, exclamations Passports the ready….. and after muchmuch debate, exclamations of of Passports at theatready….. the opportunity to explore diversdivers have have the opportunity to explore this this watery wonder, through a number of official watery wonder, through a number of official tour companies.

The crystal glacial tour companies.

The crystal clear clear glacial provides 100 metres melt melt waterwater provides up toup 100tometres of of visibility, enough to showcase visibility, moremore than than enough to showcase the awe-inspiring rock formations the awe-inspiring rock formations and and spectrum of colours.

For those who haven’t spectrum of colours.

For those who haven’t before, snorkel the surface diveddived before, snorkel tourstours of theofsurface are available, also available, and you’ll be pleased are also and you’ll be pleased to to note that dry suits are provided. note that dry suits are provided.

Least likely to say: “Can you do the roasties, mine never crisp up.”

Bioluminesence on the Beach, Jersey

Did you know that there’s a fascinating natural phenomenon in Jersey? In the moonscape seabed of the south east coast, millions of small but mighty luminescent worms make their home.

When a new moon combines with a low tide it’s possible to visit these mystical neighbours, and watch in awe as you splash through rock pools that light up with thousands of flashing lights like underwater fireworks, or trace patterns in the sand that glow bright green before your very eyes. Noted by local fishermen for time immemorial, these real Jersey wonders have only come to the attention of the scientific world in the last half a dozen years.

Least likely to say: “I just threw everything in Christmas bags this year instead of wrapping.”

The Martyr They always say they’re coping and refuse all offers of help so they can wallow in self-pity and passively aggressively mutter to themselves about slaving away in the kitchen. “If Mary can give birth in a stable, I’m sure I can manage dinner for 16-20 people. Single-handedly. On my own”. They would open presents on Christmas Day but will probably be far too busy and did they mention that they’ve been up since 5am attending to the turkey for 16-20 people, but it’s no problem!!

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TRAVEL: 7 Wonders of The World

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FEATURE: Christmas Personalities

...CONTINUED

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Continue >>>

PRIVATE WEALTH feature

Wonderland Investors -

the viability of start-up islands By:Izabella Kaminska

F

or those who don’t know, the Seasteading Institute aims to liberate the world from the tyranny of governments by constructing dozens of selfgoverning floating islands by 2020. Initially, they will be based in and around French Polynesia and feature everything from homes, hotels, offices, restaurants (and no doubt casinos) for the bargain price of $60m.

The project is being part-bankrolled by Facebook investor and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel, but also aims to raise funds through the hottest fundraising mechanism in town: the initial coin offering. (Because… well, even independent islands are better off on the blockchain.)

But Quirk’s vision doesn’t stop there.

He believes one day (c. 2050) there will be thousands of such islands offering different forms of governance options to would-be citizens from all around the world. What’s more, due to climate-change these islands may one day prove to be the Noah’s Arktype solution for low-level lands threatened by rising sea levels.

It’s a nice utopian dream. But how do you go about forging it?

In the introductory video (youtube/ seasteading) a good wedge of time is spent explaining that there’s a shortage of shallow waters to place such islands in, because, who could have anticipated, such territories are mostly already claimed by nation states. Darn it.

Hence — until the tech to build floating islands cost effectively in deep waters is made possible — seasteading pioneers are being forced to seek out alternative strategies for getting such projects underway.

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Luckily, in the case of the Seasteading Institute, the developers have stumbled upon an amazing discovery. Who needs unclaimed territories to build start-up states when you can take advantage of an existing phenomenon: the “special economic zone”.

Yes, SEZs — “little legal islands created within countries allowing special exemptions from taxes and regulations” — are pretty much all that’s needed. The strategy: negotiate with existing nations who already offer SEZs to persuade them to offer very special SEZs enabling selfgovernance.

And so it was that the Seasteading Institute came into collaboration with French Polynesia.

Eh voila, we now have a project that looks mighty like a cross between the ill-fated white elephant that is the MS The World — a floating ship housing residential units for billionaires — and Dubai.

The seasteaders say they’ve mostly been inspired by medieval mercantile city states like Venice (the “original start-up city” as they put it) and the Hansa League states.

In that vein, once they’re liberated from the oppressive oversight of civil government, they too will be able to flourish as centres of innovation, commerce and trade.

There are a few teeny weeny problems with that vision however. For one thing, their romanticised view of the medieval free-city state ignores that most of these states were not anarchic in form. To the contrary, they boasted highly complex systems of civil governance which levied domestic populations. Some had a democratic flavour where decisions were forged according to representative consensus, some less so. Even so, almost all of them owed allegiance to the Holy Empire of Rome.

Second, being in constant competition with each other, city states were frequently in precarious states of conflict and had to invest heavily in security and defence as a result. The Hansa league proved a temporary exception. But even this league descended into rivalry as self-interest took precedence over group interest, with many city-states eventually being absorbed by nation states.

Given all that, what are the chances that the Seasteading islands won’t themselves begin to replicate the governance systems they’re attempting to escape, and/or recreate them in much more autocratic form?

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AGENDA: Wonderland Investors

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n 1 BLAZER Mint Velvet Black £159 n 2 HAT/SCARF Oasis Neutral £26 n 3 JUMPER Mint Velvet Grey £79 n 4 SHOES Miss KG Black £79 n 5 SHOES Miss KG wine £49 n 6 SHOES Miss KG Black £44 n 7 SLIPPERS UGG Chestnut £80 n 8 COAT Mint Velvet Grey £169 n 9 JUMPER Phase Eight Black £65 n 10 GILET Mint Velvet Black £109 n 11 DRESS Oasis Silver/Grey £26 n 12 SKIRT Coast Black £79 n 13 TOP Warehouse Black £39 n 14 PYJAMAS DKNY Pink n 15 SWEATER Marc Cain Navy £225 n 16 DRESS Coast Green £99 n 17 COAT Warehouse Tan £89 n 18 CHOCOLATES Charbonnel et Walker n 19 TRAVEL MUG AND EARMUFF SET Totes multi n 20 EVENING BAG Mario Valentino Black £70 n 21 CLUTCH BAG Miss KG pink £49 n 22 EARRINGS Ti Sento silver £59 n 23 SOCKS SET Totes multi n 24 SOCKS Mint Velvet charcoal £35 n 25 NECKLACE Pilgrim silver £24.99 n 26 HAT Mint Velvet Apricot £35

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Open Monday-Saturday 10-5.30pm. Late night openings Wednesday 6, 13 & 20 December. Early Sunday 3 & 10 December. T: 801213 | www.tynwaldmills.com

FASHION: Christmas Gift Guide

THE REST UPFRONT

Edito...........................................................................................................................5 What's On...............................................................................................................8 The Ghost of Christmas Past.............................................................10 News In Numbers...............................................................................................12 Give...........................................................................................................................14 Christmas Personalities...................................................................................16 Santa Dash ...........................................................................................................18 MISC........................................................................................................................22

EVENTS

The Latest Island Events..............................................................23-38

CULTURE

Culture Vulture.......................................................................................40 Culture News......................................................................................................41 A little Bit of Magic..........................................................................................44 Desert Skies, Rebel Souls..............................................................................46 UPLOAD................................................................................................................48

TRAVEL

7 Wonders In The World...............................................................................52 The Ocean is Our World................................................................................55 Icy Landscapes..................................................................................................56

Wonderland Investors....................................................................................66 The Ballard Of East And West...................................................................70 Gradu8...................................................................................................................72 Junior Achievers................................................................................................74

PLACES

Feature Properties..........................................................................78-88

APPETITE

Waitrose at Christmas...........................................................................90 Christmas Food From Around The World.......................................92 Alternative Xmas Recipes...........................................................................94 Prosecco Cocktails..................................................................................97

FASHION & BEAUTY

Tynwald Christmas Gift Guide.......................................................100 Dressed To Thrill Competition.................................................................104

HARDWARE

Motoring News....................................................................................110 Phone Home ......................................................................................................115

PAPARAZZI Are you in?....................................................................................117-132

AGENDA In The News........................................................................................................60 Appointments....................................................................................................62 First Among Peers - EVOKE..................................................................... 64

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UPFRONT

DECEMBER

WHAT’S ON 03.12.2017

FAMILY GALA CONCERT

//VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// The annual Christmas concert from the Isle of Man Symphony Orchestra will include music by Rossini, Prokofiev, Delius, Tchaikovsky and more with popula arias sung by Karen Elliott (soprano) and Matthew Quine (baritone) Tickets £13.50 (adult), £5 (child) from www. villagaiety.com or the ticket hotline, 01624 600555. In aid of the ManxSPCA.

03.12.2017

CHARITY CHRISTMAS MARKET

//BALLAVARTYN EQUESTIONS CENTRE, SANTON// 90 stalls, seasonal refreshments and Santa’s grotto for the children. £1 entry – children free.

01.12.2017- 25.12.2017

TYNWALD MILLS AT CHRISTMAS

//TYNWALD MILLS// Established over 30 years, Tynwald Mills is the perfect location to do your Christmas shopping this year. Renowned for providing a great shopping experience which also inclueds a Santa’s Grotto open until 5pm from the 3-23 December and the popular Ice skating ring. www.tynwaldmills.com

Raising funds for four local charities: Parent to Parent, The Children’s Centre, A Little Piece of Hope and the Manx Hedgehog Preservation Society. www.equestrian.ballavartyn.com

7.12.2017

ROACHFORD

//VILLA MARINA// Andrew Roachford is a British singersongwriter and the main force behind the band Roachford, who scored their first success in 1989 with the hits “Cuddly Toy” and “Family Man”.

Tickets £18 www.villagaiety.com

02.12.2017

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS’ SWITCH-ON

//CASTLETOWN and PEEL// Welcome Christmas to the south and west of the Island with the traditional switching on of the lights in both towns. www.facebook.com/ CastletownIsleOfMan/ www.facebook.com/peelonline

09.12 – 10.12.2017

MANX FOOD & CRAFT MARKET

//DOUGLAS TOWN CENTRE// Back again with all local food and crafters offering a range of stocking fillers and tasty treats and the chance to indulge in local and street food from around the world. www.facebook.com/douglas-town-centremanagement

21.12.2017 – 04.01.2018

ALADDIN – THE MAGICAL ADVENTURE

//GAIETY THEATRE, DOUGLAS// From the team that brought you Puss In Boots in 2014, Dreamstar is delighted to be back for the 2017 Gaiety Theatre Pantomime so why not go along on this fantastic and magical adventure with Aladdin.

Full of laughs and pantomime antics, tickets cost from £15 for under 16s, with lots of reductions for family and group bookings from the box office 694500, the Welcome Centre or www.villagaiety. com.

22.12.2017

3FM BIGGEST EVER XMAS PARTY

//VILLA MARINA// Celebrate the 80’s with a light and laser show by Els, live music from Retrospect and prize give aways including GRAB-A-GRAND machine. You have to be in the venue by 10pm to take part. £5.00 in advance - £7.50 on the door www. villagaiety.com.

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What is the meani

ng of Christmas What is the meani ng of YOLO What is the meani se and everything ng of life the univer What is the meani Report inappropriate predic

WORDS Ria Wolstenholme ILLUSTRATION Russ Atkinson

tions

FEATURE

UPFRONT

Here we are, another year done. It’s crazy to think this time last year we were all still dumbfounded in the wake of a dangerous, unstable man with the emotional and mental ability of a toddler being let into the White House. Nonetheless, we managed to celebrate a wondrous, joyous Christmas regardless. But why does it feel like that magic just isn’t here anymore? Could the state of the world really have such a big impact on the most wonderful time of the year?

I remember as a kid finding Christmas to be the most exciting thing on my calendar. The weeks leading up to the start of Christmas break were filled with in-class movies, school dances, the big Christmas lunch and exchanging ‘Secret Santa’ presents with friends. Christmas day was about getting new PJs, seeing my family and playing games together, and finishing the day watching Elf on the sofa whilst everyone else napped off lunch.

I know, I’m sounding like a 21-year-old scrooge. It’s just a shame that our desire for the latest trends, the coolest items and the need to show everyone we have them has overthrown the innocent wonder of Christmas, the magic and sense of community that envelopes December. Granted, the image of the Father Christmas we know might have been created by Coca Cola, but regardless, the magic he symbolises seems to have disappeared.

That carefree time seemed to go on forever, until I turned 18 and the real social event was the Christmas eve night out. It turns out sambuca hangovers are only cured with more alcohol and enough food to feed an army, so Christmas day is definitely the best day to suffer with one.

Maybe our obsession with the biggest, best Christmas is because the worse the state of the world gets, the more we want to distract ourselves from it. It can be difficult to see the bright side of anything when we watch life crumble around us. There are people across the world who have no home, family, friends or reason to celebrate something as materialistic and shallow as Christmas. The holiday spirit, it seems, can only be felt and enjoyed by those who can afford it.

The reality of Christmas becomes clearer the older we get; the gifts, food and booze take priority and the stress to stay happy and make everyone else’s Christmas good becomes overwhelming. There’s a high amount of pressure put on everyone to be as festive as humanely possible, with an American style ‘bigger is better’ attitude to one of the most celebrated holidays in the western world. It has reached the point of where the average amount spent on Christmas by a British family is over £800, with people even putting themselves into debt or maxing out their credit in order to please their family materialistically.

“We all believe that the more we can squeeze into the perfectly displayed Instagram picture of all our presents, the better our Christmas was.

Even if we spent the whole day sitting on our phones, ignoring our families and looking to see what the Kardashians did that day.”

The whole mentality of what Christmas means has been warped.

Check social media anytime in November and you’ll see tweets saying ‘It’s not Christmas until the John Lewis advert is released’ seriously, that’s what Christmas has come down to now. A one-minute advert that was created in a boardroom with the purpose of making you, the consumer, consume as much of their product as possible. We all believe that the more we can squeeze into the perfectly displayed Instagram picture of all our presents, the better our Christmas was.

Even if we spent the whole day sitting on our phones, ignoring our families and looking to see what the Kardashians did that day.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

So, as Christmas draws nearer and you start to frantically write countless lists of things to buy, think of what Christmas truly means. Will your kids really remember the 10 versions of the same toy you get them? Is technology really necessary on Christmas day?

Are you really making the effort to show your loved ones you love and care for them with words and gestures rather than expensive gifts? Could your money maybe even be used to make someone less fortunate than you have the Christmas everyone deserves?

It’s easy to get sucked into the vortex of Christmas, and let the stress of it overrule the thrill of it. But in a world where so much is going wrong, and so many have nothing, take the time to think how you’d want your Christmas to be remembered in years to come. Love, laughter and gratitude are priceless compared to the 20 gifts that’ll be under the tree. Don’t lose sight of the true meaning of the most wonderful time of the year. Stay merry and bright.

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in NUMBERS NEWS

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A congratulatory message from Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney to The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh.

On behalf of the people of the Isle of Man, including the Isle of Man Government, other members of Tynwald and your Crown Officers, I express to you, Madam, the continued loyalty of the Manx people. We send to you and to his Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh our heartfelt congratulations on the 70th Anniversary of your wedding. The Isle of Man joins others in the British Isles and the Commonwealth in recognising the achievement of our Sovereign and His Royal Highness.

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The last posting date for sending letters, large letters and packets to the UK delivery is December 21; this is also the last posting dates for local mail and Parcelforce next day and Special Delivery next day guaranteed service. Special Delivery Saturday guaranteed to the UK, Channel Islands and local delivery is Friday 22 December.

For full details of last posting dates including all Parcelforce services visit www.iompost. com

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The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company fast craft Manannan’s season concluded on 5th November with services due to resume on 23rd March 2018, The vessel operated 758 sailings, travelling 55,000 miles in 2017 with her engines accumulating some 9,977 running hours.

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Last year’s ‘National Income Report’ showed the Island’s economy shrank for the first time in more than 30 years, with a 0.9 per cent drop in Gross Domestic Product. In the report the Cabinet Office says the total value of goods and services produced on the Island last year stood at £4.45 billion.

But personal incomes increased for the third year running and the Government’s Economic Affairs Division claims that means more money in your pocket.

The Isle of Man will be getting a special Christmas present from government this year - with a new five pound coin. The coin will feature a dove and the words “Nollick Ghennal” as well as “Shee dy row er y thalloo” which is Manx for “Peace on Earth”.

2,795 Campaigners hoping to modernise the Island’s abortion laws have handed a petition to Chief Minister Howard Quayle.

The Campaign for Abortion Law Modernisation collected 2,795 signatures online - with 1,967 Island residents favouring a change in the law.

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The Department of Infrastructure recently said repairing every road on the Island would cost £84 million.

Although the DOI has already been given £500,000 this year it will need more to continue.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Life moments that are worth saving for Save for life.

Find out more at iombank.com Visit your local branch iombank.com Call us today 01624 637000 Like Isle of Man Bank on Facebook Follow us on Twitter @iombank

Isle of Man Bank Limited (IOMB). Registered Company Number: 1C Isle of Man. Registered Office: 2 Athol Street, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM99 1AN. Tel. 01624 637000. Licensed by the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority in respect of Deposit Taking, Investment Business and registered as a General Insurance Intermediary.IOMB is a member of the Isle of Man Depositors’ Compensation Scheme (DCS) as set out in the Depositors’ Compensation Scheme Regulations 2010. To understand your eligibility under the scheme you may wish to visit http://www.iomfsa.im/investor/dep_comp.xml IOMB is a member of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group. The Royal Bank of Scotland plc - Registered in Scotland No 90312. Registered office: 36 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2YB. The Royal Bank of Scotland plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. The latest report and accounts are available at www.investors.rbs.com IOMB places funds with other parts of its Group and thus its financial standing is linked to the Group. Depositors may wish to form their own view on the financial standing of IOMB and the Group based on publicly available information. The latest report and accounts are available at www.iombank.com/financial-results. Calls may be recorded.

UPFRONT

OUR COMMUNITY

GIVE BOBBY MOORE GOLF DAY RAISES OVER £30,000 FOR BOWEL CANCER RESEARCH

THE EXCITEMENT OF TIME On Thursday, October 19th 2017, Dr. John C. Taylor O.B.E. opened his home at Arragon Mooar in Santon for ‘The Excitement of Time’ - an evening reception to raise funds for the charity, Bridge the Gap (“BtG”).

Jo Pack was the charming host for the evening, welcoming the guests who enjoyed champagne and canapés beneath the stunning Dragon Chronophage clock followed by a talk by Dr. Taylor who shared memories

and experiences from his varied and fascinating life.

There was also the opportunity for guests to hear more about the work of BtG, which includes raising funds to finance the provision of a Hospital Based Youth Worker to be based in a “BtG Pod” at Nobles Hospital.

Once completed, the BtG Pod will be an age appropriate chill out facility for teenage patients who are receiving on-going medical treatment at Nobles. £5,000 was raised on the night.

The prestigious PokerStars sponsored annual Golf Day in aid of the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK this year raised a staggering £30,275 despite being played on a June day which was hit by freak stormy weather conditions.

The event, which again took place at Mount Murray, was launched seven years ago.

All the proceeds are spent on dedicated bowel cancer research by Cancer Research UK. Bowel cancer is still the UK’s second highest killing cancer and 95 per cent of

those diagnosed with it are aged over 50.

Legendary footballer Bobby Moore OBE, who captained the winning England World Cup team in 1966, died in 1993 from bowel cancer. The charity named after him was founded in his memory by his widow Stephanie Moore MBE and since then more than £23m has been raised for research into bowel cancer.

Next year’s PokerStars sponsored Golf Day event will take place on June 28 at Mount Murray.

THE SALVATION ARMY AND ISLE OF MAN BANK LAUNCH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TOYS APPEAL KILIMANJARO CHALLENGE FOR NEIL MORGAN During the month of September Neil Morgan successfully managed to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. He has raised £2,100 so far for Arthritis Care Ellan Vannin to help local people suffering from arthritis.

Neil commented, climbing Kilimanjaro is the hardest thing I’ve ever done and I can’t believe it’s all behind me after almost 12 months of build-up, training and stress.

After 5 days of trekking, we left camp at around midnight

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for the summit attempt, in complete darkness. It was very surreal seeing the zig-zag of head-torches disappearing into the distance.

It took 7 hours of trudging single file to reach Uhuru Peak.

Along the way there were a lot of people struggling from exhaustion and/or altitude sickness.

I had a couple of dodgy moments along the way and if it wasn’t for the support of the porters and fellow trekkers I would not have made it to the top.

The Isle of Man Bank has once again teamed up with The Salvation Army to help provide Christmas presents for local families in need.

Members of the public are being asked to consider buying one extra present and taking it, unwrapped, to any branch of Isle of Man Bank or

to ‘Penny’, the mobile bank, before the end of November where it’ll be collected by Salvation Army volunteers.

The toys will be distributed to children whose parents are unable to afford presents and who’d otherwise not have anything to open on Christmas morning.

Back row, left to right: Chris Dawson – Athol Street Branch Manager, Isle of Man Bank, Simon Clampton and Carolyn Clampton – Captains of Salvation Army, Sarah Cain – Isle of Man Bank. Front row, left to right: Raivo Rimicans, Magda Rowinska, Helen Doherty and Jan Carney – Isle of Man Bank

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

••••

UPFRONT

OK, WE’RE LOST. LET’S ASK THAT PIXIE OK, JUST FOR DIRECTIONS. BE CAREFUL. MANX FAIRIES UM, OK...

CAN BE A BIT...

HEY, FAIRY. SENSITIVE. WHERE IS PEEL AT FROM HERE?

MANN TAILS

Give an animal a home

#2

Lenny WHY HELLO THERE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR KIND GREETING. PEEL IS JUST A FEW MILES DOWN THAT RO-

. . .

YOU..

TO...

FORGOT WAIT!

SAY!!!

Lenny is a stunning, seven-yearold Gordon Setter cross. He is fun-loving and affectionate, and he likes to be the centre of attention which means he doesn’t particularly enjoy being surrounded by other dogs in the Kennels. He would thrive as the only dog in a house where he can be ‘the one’. He’s never been in this position and has always lived with his brother who is very much the dominant male, often picking a fight with Lenny to assert his authority.

Lenny mixes beauty with brains. He’s particularly clever, and needs lots of stimulation but it has to be of the right kind. Simply playing games with him and throwing a ball for him to catch can make him a bit hyper, and so challenging him in a more thoughtful and intellectual way is what he needs. Scent training and search techniques are ideal for dog like Lenny because they make a dog use its senses. As well as being fun they can help with other areas of training such as improving recalls or coping with fearful situations.

With or without scent training Lenny will make his new owner very happy, sharing energetic walks even on the darkest of winter days.

He’ll then be equally happy sitting in front of a fire watching T.V. and simply being a loyal and loving companion.

If a Gordon Setter is just a bit too large and energetic for you, then we have a beautiful two-year-old cat called Nicole who would love to curl up on your sofa with you on these cold winter nights. She came to us as a stray, which is hard to believe because she’s so friendly and affectionate, and she purrs as soon as you touch her.

HELLO FAIRIES!!!

Just like Lenny she will need to be the centre of attention in her new home, and be fussed over and cuddled as much as possible without any competition from other pets (she really does not like other cats). Nicole is confident and mature enough to be a real joy to have around over Christmas, and she won’t run and hide behind the sofa when visitors call. She will be only too happy to help out with an overabundance of turkey, and her idea of a ‘purrfect’ Christmas would be to spend most of the festive period watching films in front of the fire, doing as little as possible.

Nicole

AH! OKAY THANKS FAIRY...

G- GOOD BYE FAIRY. WE’LL FIND IT FROM HERE...

T-THANKS. ...RUN!!

If you think you can give Nicole the loving home she deserves, come and meet her and her feline companions in our Cattery. We would like to rehome as many of them as possible over the next couple of weeks so that they can enjoy Christmas in a home of their own.

ManxSPCA • Ard Jerkyll, East Foxdale • Tel: 851672

www.manxspca.com

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WHICH CHRISTMAS PERSONALITY ARE YOU? Words Clare Bowie

UPFRONT

The Shopper Everybody knows one, this person lives to shop! The term “6 weeks to go” means nothing to them because Christmas shopping is an ongoing 52-week-long affair.

They probably have a designated wrapping station in the spare room, an “emergency present” stash that would make Santa weep and they will never experience a sellotape shortage situation. They know about all the sales, tricks, codes and markets in the Northern Hemisphere; and Black Friday is, well, most Fridays actually.

Least likely to say: “Ho, Ho, how much???!!”

Most likely to say: “I’ll take 10 of them, because... Christmas!”

The Foodie It’s ALL about the food with this one; their dream is to invent an edible organic Christmas tree. Don’t expect a tin of Quality Street or a scented candle from them; it will be chorizo jam or macadamia and cranberry cookies with a bottle of spiced arancello, all wrapped in environmentally conscious newspaper. Although the food is delicious you sometimes mourn a simple turkey and trifle dinner as you tuck into your (Instagrammed) baba ganoush, roast squab pigeon with brussel sprout foam and a deconstructed gluten-free-biscuit-based spiced ginger cheesecake.

Least likely to say: “I just bought the sauce in M&S.” Most likely to say: “I can’t believe I only did two trial runs of the spiced stolen plait.” #facepalm

The Can’t Really Be Bothered One It’s all such an effort; the presents, the fuss, the jumpers and the excessive family time. Festivity is so not their forte and decorations don’t get a look in. They somehow manage to charmingly persuade everyone to buy their own presents and BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

promise to reimburse them later. Or, they commit to a few clicks on-line and it’s all done, dusted, wrapped and delivered.

On Christmas Day they can usually be found snoring on the sofa after convincing someone to top up their baileys all day.

They then leave with all the leftovers in Tupperware that will never be seen again.

Least likely to say: “Sit down and I’ll do the washing up.”

Most likely to say: “The turkey was a bit dry though.”

The Perfectionist You can hardly bear to visit their house because your own home always feels like a shabby shack afterwards. In fact, their home makes Liberty’s feel underdressed.

It is a glorious understated yet achingly contemporary winter wonderland of encased linen tea lights, a hint of distressed holly and a shed load of classy elegance. *weeps again* There is an extreme sense of calm and a laminated spreadsheet will probably be ticked off somewhere in the background and address labels neatly stuck onto cards, that are most likely hand painted. Sigh!

Least likely to say: “Have you seen my gold tinsel?”

Most likely to say: “I’ve just hand carved a new crib scene”.

The Re-Gifter If it’s on eBay they want it. “What goes around comes around” is their favourite phrase for presents, rather than a Karmic philosophy to live by. It’s hard to get excited by their vintage approach to Christmas but at least you know to prepare yourself when you get a gift from them, so you can say, “Thanks, this is so useful”, instead of; “Erm, isn’t this your old purse?!”

They always tells you the origin of the gift, “It’s a great book, got me through some bad times”, or “I actually got this free when I bought new skincare”. Um, thanks?

The Traditionalist They love Christmas and all its many trimmings, as long as it’s done in exactly the same way every year. Christmas always comes out of the loft on the same date; the Bing Crosby’s go on and the decorations go in exactly the same places, not to be removed until the wise men have arrived thank you very much. The Queen will receive their undivided at 3pm and there will be no last minute menu changes or varaitions. Any talk of pancetta with the sprouts will be dismissed and all the nice wine disappears as numerous bottles of sticky sherry, baileys and brandy appear instead.

Least likely to say: “I just threw everything in Christmas bags this year instead of wrapping.”

Most likely to say: “More fruit cake?”

The Martyr They always say they’re coping and refuse all offers of help so they can wallow in self-pity and passively aggressively mutter to themselves about slaving away in the kitchen. “If Mary can give birth in a stable, I’m sure I can manage dinner for 16-20 people. Single-handedly. On my own”. They would open presents on Christmas Day but will probably be far too busy and did they mention that they’ve been up since 5am attending to the turkey for 16-20 people, but it’s no problem!!

Least likely to say: “Can you do the roasties, mine never crisp up.”

Most likely to say. “I’m fffiiiiinnnnneeee”

The Alternative One They book a fortnight in Mauritius and fly off on December 20th.

Least likely to say: “I bought you the cashmere gloves.”

Least likely to say: “It’s the most wonderful time of the year.”

Most likely to say: “I still use my mini screwdrivers from last year’s Crackers.”

Most likely to say: “See you next year, suckers.”

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FEATURE

WHICH TYPE OF CHRISTMAS GUEST

ARE YOU?

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Does your behaviour mean you’re cracking company at Christmas parties? Or does everyone thing you’re a right turkey? Take our quiz to find out...

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

The office Christmas party is just getting underway, and you are...

A) Standing in the corner, moaning how bad the buffet is - but still find you’re the last person to leave at the end of the night B) Insisting on re-doing all the girls’ makeup, they don’t look nearly festive enough C) Already on the dance floor and planning who to snog under the mistletoe D) Too busy organising it to even think about having fun When the clock strikes midnight on December 31 , you’re most likely to be...

A) At an expensive ticket-only party grumbling about the cost B) Telling everyone to sing Auld Lang Syne C) Asleep - you got too excited, too early, and fell asleep at 10pm D) Handing out drinks to everyone What’s your favourite part of the Christmas meal?

A) The potatoes - you can’t go wrong with a spud B) The turkey of course, but if it’s dry it’s awful C) Christmas pud! It’s so exciting when you’re all looking for the hidden coin D) The sprouts - well someone’s got to love them...

You’re asked to babysit your nieces on 23 December. You...

A) Say no - they’ll be too excited and annoying B) Agree, and while you’re there, you prepare all your sister’s Christmas dinner for her - she didn’t ask you to, but she’ll appreciate it C) Jump at the chance to spend the evening writing letters to Santa D) Say yes, then help them write Christmas cards for their mum and dad

Your all-time favourite Christmas was...

A) When you went away on holiday (though it was a bit hot) B) When everyone said how wonderful your cooking was C) It’d be impossible to pick, they’ve all been perfect D) When you were little and saved up your pocket money to buy your parents the perfect pressie!

A few days before Christmas, you’re up extra early because...

A) You’re getting the last-minute shopping out of the way before all the horrible crowds B) You need to get presents for your partner’s family, because you didn’t like his choices C) You’re too over-excited to sleep any longer D) You’ve offered to pick up the turkey from the supermarket for your in-laws You’re very festive night out will involve going...

A) To the same pub you always go to at this time of year - it’s rubbish, but it’s a tradition b) To the pantomime. You like the bit where you say ‘he’s behind you’ C) Carol singing - you’ve put together a group and everyone will love it D) To the kids’ school disco to help chaperone When you wake up on Boxing Day, you feel...

A) Same as always - a bit tired B) Ready for the New Year’s celebrations C) Like you might cry - how is it over for another year?

D) Panicked about all the tidying up

You’re going to watch a Christmas film. You choose...

A) The Grinch - it’s great until it gets all soppy B) Miracle On 34th Street - it’s all about proving people wrong C) Home Alone - it’s so funny D) It’s a Wonderful Life - an oldie but a goodie

Which celeb would you like to kiss under the mistletoe?

A) No one, you’re allergic to mistletoe B) Brad Pitt; only the best will do C) Your boyfriend - he might not be famous, but he’s a star to you...

D) If only you had the time to buy mistletoe, let alone daydream about it!

Your favourite part of a trifle is the...

A) Sponge at the bottom - shame you’ve got to eat the rest to get to it B) Cream on the top - it’s all about appearances C) Jelly - it reminds you of jelly and ice cream at birthday parties D) Sherry - you need it after rushing around on your feet all day!

It’s time to pull a cracker, you...

A) Tell your five-year-old cousin off for cheating to get the present B) Direct everyone to cross hands and tell them their right hand gets the gift C) Insist everyone wears their paper hats for the rest of the day D) Give your hat to your partner when he rips his

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

HOW DID YOU SCORE? Mostly As: Unhappy uncle You’re a complete misery guts and moan about everything, from the softness of the sprouts to the terrible cracker presents. Not that you’ll do anything to change it - that’s far too much effort!

While Christmas is meant to be a time of relaxation, don’t let all the chores end up being dumped on your loved ones. Try and help out here and there - and, most of all, relax and try and enjoy it!

Mostly Bs: Good gracious, Gran!

You always know best and you’re not afraid to tell others when things aren’t up to your high standard. While it’s good to aim for the best, also remember that everyone has different views on what is right and wrong. Also, it’s good to let people make little mistakes - after all that’s how they learn.

Mostly Cs: Little kid There is over-excited... and then there’s you! You are massively enthusiastic about all things Christmas, which is lovely, but don’t get upset if things don’t go exactly to plan. Remember not everyone is as passionate about the big day as you, but it doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with them.

Spread the cheer by all means, but don’t force it down people’s throats!

Mostly Ds: Marvellous mum Everyone looks forward to you coming round - from the great presents you pick and the funny stories you tell, to the fact you’re always happy to help. Christmas is the time of giving, but make sure you take time for yourself too, otherwise you’ll end up exhausted and ill - and that’s not fun for anyone!

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MISC

Just random things to amuse you.

Chop chop!

The eighth wonder of the world?

I'm sure that you've all heard people claiming that they can show you the eighth wonder of the world before but the only thing that you can be certain of is that I have absolutely no interest in knowing the context in which you heard those words.

But in slightly more serious news, scientists believe that they've discovered what could become the actual eighth wonder of the world in New Zealand thanks to a 19th century field diary that once belonged to geologist Ferdinand von Hochstetter. The pink and white terraces of Lake Rotomahana were buried after the volcanic eruption of Mount Tarawera in 1886, after which scientists hypothesised that the terraces had either been destroyed or pushed to the bottom of the lake as a result.

You've heard of lumberjacks (you know, the outdoorsy blokes in the plaid shirts) but meet the world's number one lumberjill, Erin Lavoie. Despite dealing with asthma and a heart murmur at an early age she eventually decided to combine her passion for sports with her study of forestry to begin competing in, you (possibly) guessed it; forestry sports. Log rolling, log sawing, log chopping, things predominantly involving logs. She's also a crossfit addict and competes in that too, which probaby also helps. But what relevance does this have to this month's Gallery magazine, you may wonder? Well, she holds the world record in the famous Guinness Book for the most Christmas trees felled in two minutes at an impressive 27 trees.

Recent research, however, has revealed that they might in fact just be buried below fifty feet of ash and mud, so subject to governmental approval (isn't it always the way?) they hope to begin excavating the site so that the pink and white wonder can once again be appreciated by tourists in the same way that it was in the 19th century. Except with a lot more selfies.

Quoted:

Gal Gadot (Wonder Woman)

"By the way, Wonder Woman is Amazonian, and historically accurate Amazonian women actually had only one breast. So, if I'd really go 'by the book' ... it'd be problematic."

Poor jokes:

What's the difference between Tiger Woods and Santa? Santa stopped at 3 ho's.

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Christmas cheer...

...for electricity suppliers, anyway. They exist the world over, even here in moderately restrained Isle of Man. We've all seen them.

People who choose to drape excessive quantities of festive illuminations over their houses. They never fail to disappoint, year in, year out - unless you happen to be their neighbours, in which case the chances of disappointment are quite high knowing that sleeping at night without using blackout blinds is going to be tough. For one family's neighbours, things must be particularly tough, and that's because they've held the record for most Christmas lights on a residential property twice.

Congratulations to the Gay family of New York, who I'm sure will be aiming to beat their impressive (debatable) 601,736 lights on display this festive season. I can't help but think that one of the kids has to count them before the Guinness adjudicator arrives or risk getting a lump of coal from Father Christmas.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Give your loved ones something special this Christmas

Gift Vouchers Available www.shansphoto.com | photo@shansphoto.com

EVENTS EVENTS

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The Isle of Man’s everyday superheroes were celebrated as the Heroes in the Community Awards returned to The Empress Hotel in October.

Along with recognising Island residents who do extraordinary things for the community, the gala event also raised more than £8,000 for the local Dream Catcher charity.

HEROES IN THE COMMUNITY 2017 EXTRAVAGANZA

This year’s ceremony had a circus theme, with winners, their guests and members of the local business community treated to entertainment from local circus performers and live music from The Waltons.

Heroes in the Community 2017 winners: 1: Standard Bank Heart of Gold: Rachel Corlett 2: Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Dedication to the Community 1: Karen Norton 3: Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Dedication to the Community 2: Muriel Quayle 4: Celton Manx Dedication to Equality & Diversity: Shane Hesketh, Fryers Fish & Chip Shop

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5: Manx Radio Dedication to Sports Under 18: Tia Lisy (accepted on Tia’s behalf by Grandma Pauline Lisy) 6: Cains Dedication to Sport Over 18: Stella Hampton 7: Home Strategic Dedication to the Arts: Jenny Green 8: KPMG Teacher of the Year: Elaine Karran 9: Grandparent of the Year: Liz Duke 10: Ambitions Recruitment Parent of the Year: Sinead Astill 11: Skywind Group Child of Courage: Luke Cain

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120 people attended the event which rasied £15,000 on the day

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Location: Seven Kingdom & Portofino Restaurant

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THE MANX BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP - ISLE OF WOMAN CAMPAIGN

Location: Seven Kingdoms & Portofino Restaurant

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Celebrate Celebrate at at The The Sefton Sefton Boxing Boxing Boxing Day Day Day Boxing Day or or or News News News Years Years Years Day Day Day Lunch Lunch Lunch or News Years Day Lunch

Time 3-course Time Time to to to relax relax relax with with with a a 3-course carvery carvery carvery lunch lunch lunch Time to relax with aa 3-course 3-course carvery lunch and and and glass glass glass of of of sparkling sparkling sparkling wine wine wine and glass of sparkling wine

£33 £33 £33 per per per person person person £33 per person

New New New Years Years Years Eve Eve Eve Party Party Party Night Night Night New Years Eve Party Night

Prosecco on arrival Prosecco Prosecco on on arrival Prosecco on arrival arrival Celebrate beautiful Celebrate Celebrate in in in style style style with with with a a beautiful 3-course 3-course 3-course dinner dinner dinner Celebrate in style with aa beautiful beautiful 3-course dinner Half Half Half bottle bottle bottle of of of wine wine wine per per per person person person Half bottle of wine per person Toast glass Toast Toast in in in the the the new new new year year year with with with a a glass of of of Champagne Champagne Champagne Toast in the new year with aa glass glass of Champagne David David David Castro Castro Castro night night night of of of Soul Soul Soul David Castro night of Soul DJ DJ DJ until until until 1am 1am 1am DJ until 1am Over Over Over18s 18s 18sonly only only Over 18s only

£65 £65 £65 per per per person person person £65 per person

Special accommodation rates available Special Special accommodation accommodation rates rates available Special accommodation rates available available call: call: call: 01624 01624 01624 682775 682775 682775 call: 01624 682775 SeftonIOM SeftonIOM SeftonIOM SeftonIOM

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SHE EVENT STYLING

On November 3rd The Tea Junction was filled to the brim with beautiful and glamorous guests from across the Isle of Man to celebrate the launch of SHE Event Styling.

SHE was formed by Shan, Heidi & Emma (from Shan Fisher Photography, The Flower Studio and Oh My Pen & Press respectively) after they had collaborated on numerous separate occasions and realised that their talents could reach even greater heights if they came together as a one stop styling team.

Their launch party was aptly titled ‘Sparkle’ with the Tea Junction’s already opulent surroundings being the perfect setting to show how these ladies can really wow your guests with a style that is unique and individual.

The event was also supported by local businesses Butterfingers Cakes, ELEMENT Isle, Kim Gee Studio, Tracey Bell and Vanity House who were on hand during the evening to entertain guests with their products and exclusive special offers.

www.sheeventstyling.com www.facebook.com/SHEEventStyling www.instagram.com/sheeventstyling

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REBECCA HOUSE RAINBOW BLACK TIE BALL The Rebecca House Rainbow Ball was held at the Villa Marina on Saturday 11th November and marked the end of their campaign to raise £100,000 in 10 months to celebrate their 10th birthday at Hospice Isle of Man. The Rainbow Ball, supported by SMP Partners, was a huge success with much needed funds being raised for the local children’s hospice.

The auction included a bespoke pastel portrait commission by internationally acclaimed award winning artist Svetlana Cameron and two pieces from award winning London based artist Iain Alexander. Prizes also included VIP TT 2018 tickets, a private jet to London, personalised show on 3FM, a lap of the TT course and a K6 telephone box kindly donated by Manx Telecom.

The evening included performances from Grace Lee who attends Rebecca House, Hospice Young Ambassador Alexandra Slater and local band Retrospect.

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COME AND CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S AT THE MANNIN HOTEL

In February 2018, we have two exceptional packages to choose from £180 per couple

SATURDAY 10TH FEBRUARY

WEDNESDAY 14TH FEBRUARY

£45 per person For dinner only

Our Romantic Dinner, Bed and Breakfast package includes:

Valentine’s dinner package with live music.

Our dinner only package includes:

• • • •

• Glass of Prosecco on arrival • A romantic dinner in Liberties Restaurant • Live music

Arrival drinks Bottle of Prosecco and box of chocolates in your room A romantic dinner in Liberties Restaurant Live performance by an award-winning singer Helen Ward-Jackson • Overnight stay for two people in an Atrium or Broadway room • Full English Breakfast

Add an Overnight stay for two people in an Atrium or Broadway room with Full English Breakfast for only £50.00 per couple

To book please call 01624 602555 E-mail info@manninhotel.im 8-16 Broadway • Douglas • IM2 4EL /mannin hotel • www.manninhotel.im

MANNIN HOTEL WEEKEND SPECIAL DINNER, BED AND BREAKFAST £120 per room

Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings between JANUARY 5TH 2018 - SATURDAY 31ST MARCH 2018* Includes: •

•

•

•

Overnight stay for two people in Atrium or Broadway room Three course dinner in Liberties Restaurant Full English Breakfast Complimentary Wi-Fi and Car Parking

To book please call 01624 602555 or e-mail info@manninhotel.im 8-16 Broadway • Douglas • IM2 4EL /mannin hotel • www.manninhotel.im *Terms and Conditions apply

EVENTS

REBECCA HOUSE RAINBOW BLACK TIE BALL

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CULTURE VULTURE What’s on Now – 22.12.2017 LUMINANCE //SAYLE GALLERY, DOUGLAS//

An exhibition of the work of three Islandbased photographers, Simon Park, Mike Radcliffe and Julian Simmonds, all exploring form and landscape with light. Simon, Mike and Julian all began their practice in the Isle of Man, itself described as having amazing light, but have also travelled widely, seeking extraordinary light elsewhere.

The readily accessible digital image is everywhere - and some wonderful photographs pop up on the tiny screens of our mobile devices all the time - but Luminance is an opportunity to see larger images on the gallery wall, where their full impact can be appreciated and enjoyed. www.facebook.com/SayleGallery

Now - 27.01.2018 MANX THOLTANS //MANX MUSEUM, DOUGLAS// Tholtans are rapidly disappearing from the Isle of Man’s landscape but drawing inspiration from Ray Kelly’s latest book, Manx Tholtans – Volume 2, this special exhibition takes the audience on a journey through the island, exploring the beauty of these derelict buildings and painting a picture of Manx life in times gone by, with work by the photographer himself and multimedia artist Naimh Kelly.

Kindly supported by WH Ireland International Wealth. www.manxnationalheritage.im

now – January 2018 COURTYARD ARTISTS REVISTED //ISLE GALLERY, TYNWALD MILLS//

A very special exhibition of work from the artists who were represented by The Courtyard Gallery when it was set up in the same building exactly 25 years ago. Expect stunning work from some exceptional artists, many of whom have gone on to be recognised across the world. www.theislegallery.com

02.12.2017 ICE SCULPTURES //STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS//

Ice sculpture returns to the capital on Saturday 2 December when Darren and Steph from Ice Mann Studio will create an incredible sculpture which will take shape during the day. The 2017 design is top secret but there’s a clue in the name given to it by the sponsors - ‘The WiManx Express’.

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DECEMBER www.facebook.com/douglas-towncentre-management

02.12.2017 PLAYFUL PASTS – OUR JOUNEY WITH TOYS //HOUSE OF MANANNAN, PEEL//

To celebrate the launch of the new exhibition, Manx National Heritage is inviting toy lovers of any ages as the doors to the play emporium at the House of Manannan are thrown open at 2pm. www.manxnationalheritage.im

Now – 02.12.2017 GRENABY STUDIOS ARTISAN CHRISTMAS MARKET //GRENABY, BALLABEG//

Quality, locally made contemporary arts and crafts for sale, with an opportunity to meet the makers including resident artisans Claire (Elementisle Jewellery), Graham (Artforms from Nature) and Rosie (Ballalona Arts), as well as visiting artists Nicola Dixon, Sara from Willing Heart Wool, Tanya from Lovely Greens and more.

Flo the Coffee Van will be serving a delicious array of cakes and bakes, with wintery warming bakes. www.facebook.com/Grenaby/

09.12.2017 TEDxDOUGLAS //YOUTH ARTS CENTRE, KENSINGTON ROAD, DOUGLAS//

TEDxDouglas returns and the theme for this year is ‘The Impact of an Idea’.

Speakers include: John Morris – Cofounder and director of Geeks Without Frontiers,Helen Moyer – Teacher developing the practice and ethos of SOLE (Self Organised Learning Environment) at Willaston School,Howard Parkin – Chairman of IOM Astronomical Society, Liam CarterHawkins – UX/UI consultant, Bill Dale – Founder of Beach Buddies charity, Courtenay Heading – Co-founder of the Manx BioMed Cluster and co-organiser of the annual ManxBioMed Conference and Jules Verne Theory – Isle of Man-based band featuring Richard Slee and Arron Clague will be performing.

See the Facebook page for the titles of their talks, and details of how to get your tickets. www.facebook.com/TEDxDouglas/

10.12.2017 SPECIAL SUNDAY OPENING & CONCERT //MANX MUSEUM, DOUGLAS//

The Manx Museum will be open on Sunday 10 December from 10am-5pm to allow visitors to browse the galleries, stock up on Christmas gifts in the shop and join in with festive activities.

In the lecture theatre, at 2pm, Tholtans Tales – A Christmas Concert will take place – songs, poetry, spine-tingling folk tales and dramatized stories, all based on the current exhibition ‘Manx Tholtans’. The carol concert features local choral groups singing traditional carvals. Tickets for this event, including refreshments, are £10 (adults), £5 (children) and can be bought from the museum shop or online at: www. manxnationalheritage.im

14.12.2017 – 31.01.2017 SPACE //HODGSON LOOM GALLERY, LAXEY//

This year’s open art competition exhibition follows the theme of Space. Professional artists jostle with amateurs and students to win the coveted awards, including one voted for by visitors to the gallery. The standard of entries is always really high and in the past has included small drawings and paintings, wood carvings, ceramics and intricate sculptures. Gallery curator Julie AshbySmyth works her magic and it is always a fascinating exhibition to visit. www.facebook.com/ HodgsonLoomGallery

14.12.2017 CHRISTMAS WITH THE ‘MINISTER OF FUN’ //TYNWALD, DOUGLAS//

An evening of festive hospitality and a guided tour of Tynwald and the House of Keys by David Cretney MLC, the Island’s Minister of Fun! This unique ‘through the eyes of a member’ tour allows guests to ask questions and get to know more about the structure and the history of Tynwald with plenty of amusing stories and interesting facts from David’s long career in Manx Politics.

Free, but please book your place at: www.facebook.com/ events/739518022924653/

16.12.2017 GINGERBREAD THOLTANS //MANX MUSEUM, DOUGLAS//

Children are invited along to the museum to take part in a gingerbread decorating workshop with Taylor Made Cakes using icing, sweets and sprinkles.

Workshops are at 10am, 11.30am, 1pm & 3pm – 15 spaces per session – and cost £5 per child (accompanying adult goes free) www.manxnationalheritage.im ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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CULTURE NEWS NEW EXHIBITION SPARKS A BLAST FROM THE PAST

Red and Boober, characters from Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock, will feature in Manx National Heritage’s new exhibition, Playful Pasts: Our Journey with Toys.

Toy designer, Steve Allen, has loaned some incredibly rare items from his collection to be featured in the exhibition, including Red and Boober.

“These are original prototypes that I made when I worked at Hensons in London, when we were working on ‘Fraggle Rock’ and ‘Muppet Babies’, said Steve.

Boober is very special to me, as he is the character that actually got me the job in Hensons. I was a huge Muppets fan when I was a kid, and I had to take these prototypes up to Hensons to get them passed. I took them up there, and they offered me a job to go and work for the film ’Labyrinth’.”

our care, but will also be a chance to present

Anthea Young, Manx National Heritage Education Services Officer and curator of the exhibition commented:

as the Gibbs of the Grove, through to simple toys made from scrap materials by German ‘enemy aliens’ who were interned on the Island during the First and Second World Wars.

“The exhibition will showcase a range of much loved toys, from wealthy children such

It will not only provide an opportunity to look at the unique collections of toys under

opens 2 December 2017, running until

Acclaimed artist Graham Rider has gifted his painting of the landmark Venetian basilica Santa Maria della Salute to Tynwald.

ACCLAIMED ARTIST GIFTS PAINTING OF LANDMARK VENETIAN BASILICA TO TYNWALD

toy stories with an island connection directly from the local community.”

Playful Pasts: Our Journey with Toys Easter 2018 at the House of Manannan.

Mr Rider said: ‘I consider this work one of my finest paintings and was keen for it to be seen in public. When I learned that local artists were being invited to exhibit in the Legislative Buildings then saw the well-lit space where it was proposed to hang the painting, I knew it would have a “good home” so I was very pleased to gift it to Tynwald.’

Mr Rider relocated from Norwich to the Island in 2016 and is an artist in residence at Grenaby Studios. He has exhibited in London, including at WH Paterson in Albermarle Street, the gallery where his painting of ‘La Salute’ - as the basilica is widely known – featured in the Venice in Peril exhibition. His work can also be found in a number of corporate collections, including that of Ernst & Young and the National Railways Museum in York, while among his many private collectors is the Duke of Bedford.

Mr Rider added that over the years he had revisited the painting - one of his largest at around one metre high by one and a half metres wide – which, in a nod to his new home, now depicted ‘Manx seagulls’.

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Graham Rider is pictured before his painting of Santa Maria della Salute with the President of Tynwald Steve Rodan MLC and the Speaker of the House of Keys Juan Watterson SHK. Photo courtesy of Paul Dougherty, Tynwald Seneschal

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ISLE OF MAN POST OFFICE UNVEILS CHRISTMAS STAMPS FOR 2017 With the festive season fast approaching, the Isle of Man Post Office has unveiled its Christmas stamps for 2017, featuring a visual interpretation of the traditional seasonal song The Twelve Days of Christmas.

Designed by artist Catherine Rowe, The Twelve Days of Christmas issue consists of 12 delightfully illustrated 1st Class stamps, perfect for all your Christmas cards this year. Each stamp in the collection represents one of the verses in the song, from Twelve Drummers Drumming to the Partridge in a Pear Tree.

The collection includes collectable stamp sheets, with gummed and self-adhesive options, a four-page presentation pack folder holding a mint set of the stamps and a First Day Cover, with a full set of the stamps cancelled with the first day of issue using a unique postmark.

There is also a decorative sheetlet with album – a perfect festive gift - and a Christmas card featuring the delightful stamp designs.

Catherine Rowe, who studied illustration at The Cambridge School of Art, has worked as a freelance illustrator, jewellery designer and is now freelance artist. She works with the rare medium scraperboard, using it as an alternative to print making.

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She said: ‘I wanted to bring a strong earthy, Celtic theme into the project, reflecting the Manx history and traditions. The designs all have a small nod towards the Island’s heritage - be it the three armoured legs or Manx tartan. The colour pallet is bold and striking, yet to give that traditional Christmas warmth as well as a natural and earthy feel.

‘Producing this many images in a set was very challenging for me - to get all of the colours to work well together required a lot of experimenting and trial and error!

Luckily I had the pleasure of working alongside the very talented designers at the Isle of Man Post Office who were wonderfully helpful in their infinite stampmaking wisdom. The project has been a wonderfully exciting process and I am thrilled with the results and the thought of my miniature works travelling all around the world.

‘It has been an absolute honour to work on The Twelve Days of Christmas stamp project for the Isle of Man Post Office. It has been great fun and I found it especially interesting working traditional Manx elements into the designs. I hope the public will enjoy the finished product as much as I loved designing it!’

The Twelve Days of Christmas can be ordered from www.iomstamps.com.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Beautifully crafted gifts inspired by the Isle of Man

Christmas shopping with

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A LITTLE BIT OF MAGIC: NEW PUBLIC ART GIVES THE WEST THE WOW FACTOR Peel has long been a favourite of Island-based creatives. Poets, authors, musicians and most of all artists have chosen to make their homes in the town so it’s fitting that one of Peel’s own has contributed to the regeneration project with a very site-specific piece of public art which will stand for generations.

By: Suzy Holland Images: Simon Park & Nicola Dixon

Nicola Dixon is known for her watercolours of birds, boats, seals and fish and most recently for the Green Mann series of stamps for IOM Post celebrating the Island’s food industry. But for the last couple of years she’s also been working on something much bigger: an Archibald Knox-inspired steel panel sculptural piece in the Market Square, Peel. PL17 Salutation takes inspiration from 10 lines of ‘The Deer’s Cry’ an ancient prayer which connect man and the elements, and from which Manx artist Archibald Knox produced his masterwork – a complicated interlaced illumination of each line which is a timeless visual meditation.

I arise today Through strength of Heaven, Light of Sun, Radiance of Moon, Splendour of Fire, Speed of Lightning, Swiftness of Wind, Depth of the Sea, Stability of Earth, Firmness of Rock.

Landscape architect Steve Prescott was the driving force behind the Market Place Regeneration and always saw a screen to blur the lines between street and car park

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as an essential element in the project. “I originally submitted an idea for drawings on metal some years ago,” says Nicola, “but when the job became a reality I soon realised my original landscape lines didn’t translate! Every complete shape is a hole, and any long line cuts the metal in half or makes it weak, so it really was back to the drawing board and the paper cutting mat to take scalpel to black paper to learn all about positive and negative images and play with my ideas.”

Fortunately Nicola had guidance and support from Nik Jennings of Macro Metal Services to learn about the possibilities and the potential problems of translating her drawings to metal, and the inspiration of an old friend, Aragorn, who hand-cuts stories into steel fireballs at his Caribbean studio. “’The Deer’s Cry’ is a magical myth as well as a meditation,” says Nicola, “and my drawings needed to flow across the screens, much as the prayer flows and as Knox’s lines flow in his paintings and illustrations.”

And that was where architectural technician Sam Peppers came in. “Sam is a CAD genius!” says Nicola. “He translated scans of my pencil drawings of each screen into computer files, which we then had to tweak to make sure every screen flowed into the next. It was much more involved than either of us thought it would be, but the hard work has paid off.” “’The Deer’s Cry’, or ‘St Patrick’s Breastplate’, has been interpreted in so many ways, and adopted by many different belief systems, many of which are intrinsically linked to Peel and the Isle of Man,” says Nicola. “It’s been linked to Manannin Mac Lir, to the Irish semi-gods Tuatha De Danann and to St Patrick, but it can also be simply regarded as something to place you where you are, in the here and now, and, for me, saying it aloud whilst out experiencing the nature all around me makes it all the more powerful.”

And if you go to Peel, what will you see? The finished panels of PL17 Salutation interpret each line and follow a stylised landscape across Peel, with beach, castle, people, a bonfire, fishing boats driven by the wind and the marine life common to Peel bay, all tied up in the words of the prayer.

There’s no doubt that Nicola’s designs for the panels are just as detailed as in

her other work. There are some familiar motifs – the gulls and gannets, the seals and porpoises, the Viking boats and Peel Nickey and Nobby fishing boats – and also the more mystical sun burst, moon, wind and lightening of the prayer, but you don’t need to know about ‘The Deer’s Cry’ to enjoy what has been described as ‘something beautiful in the middle of Peel.’

So get up, get out and go to Peel, not just for the fabulous sunsets but to see PL17 Salutation – as Nicola herself says, “you don’t have to know the background to understand the designs, but the lines of ‘The Deer’s Cry’ add depth and presence – and maybe a little bit of magic.”

Nicola’s PL17 Salutation is part of the Peel Regeneration Scheme: Client - Dept of Infrastructure, Project Manager McGarrigle Architects, Main Contractor - Island Drainage. Stainless steel and installation - Galla’s Foundry, CAD Samuel J Pepper. PL17 Salutation was commissioned thanks to the vision of Steve and Jane Prescott, Prescott Associates.

In memory of Steve Prescott, who sadly passed away in November, just as the final panels were being installed.

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BOOK LAUNCHH

DESERT SKIES, REBEL SOULS

An interview with local writer, Michelle P. Tonnesen, who has just published her second novel

When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

I was born a word lover and grew up with multiple languages, so I guess it was written in the stars that I would be a wordsmith of some kind for a living. After having worked with corporate communication, business and academic writing for most of my career, it was a delightful adventure to break into creative writing when I started scribbling my debut novel, The Cosmopolitan Islander, six years ago.

What is your new novel about?

Desert Skies, Rebel Souls is about a young woman’s thrilling journey of self-discovery and rebellion. Olivia is breaking free from the confinements of her safe, predictable upper-class life in the wealthy suburbs of Copenhagen.

She travels to a small kibbutz in rural Israel where she meets Chaim, a young kibbutznik who is about to join the Israeli army like all his peers. They fall deeply in love, but their relationship is soon challenged by geography and the gore of war.

It is an uplifting tale of adventure, yet a bitter-sweet love story which questions the concepts of hatred, fate, war and peace as the protagonist deconstructs both her perception of the world and her identity.

Where did you get your inspiration from?

My memories of living and travelling in the Middle East were the catalyst for my new novel. However, the cast of characters and the story are inspired by lots of different people and events, real as well as fictional. The news, TV series, films, friends, family, random strangers in the street, restaurants or

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when travelling – they have all inspired me and triggered different scenes and emotions I could channel into the adventures of Olivia and Chaim.

Who will read your book?

Hopefully, everyone – but definitely adventurous globetrotters and readers longing to escape. I hope my novel will help more people appreciate the beauty and wonders of this region, and particularly Israel which is often the centre of negative publicity. I also hope my new novel will take the readers on an adventure that will stay with them forever.

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

I love good food and good company.

I do as much travelling as possible.

I enjoy discovering new places and cultures – particularly in the sun! I also dabble in yoga and running to look after my body and mind in a hectic life.

What is an interesting fact about yourself?

I am originally from Denmark, but grew up in a multicultural family and have lived in Brussels, the Middle East and London before moving to the Isle of Man with my family in 2011. My experiences with living in different countries and cultures inspire a lot of my writing, sprinkled with a bit of an anthropological globetrotter’s perspective on life due to my degree in Intercultural Management and Communication.

When is your novel out?

It’s available now as e-book and paperback. I hope you will enjoy reading it as much as I have enjoyed writing it.

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A JOURNEY INTO THE UNKNOWN. A REBELLION AGAINST FAMILY, CULTURE AND SOCIETY. A LOVE AGAINST ALL ODDS. From Scandinavia to the Middle East, a young woman travels to discover herself and finds a world of passion and history, war and peace. A whirlwind romance takes a dramatic turn, leaving Olivia caught between countries, belonging nowhere, and with the love of her life in danger far away.

From the award-winning author of The Cosmopolitan Islander comes an uplifting tale of adventure, conflict and reconciliation that never shies away from brutal reality, yet sparkles with the sheer love of life.

Desert Skies, Rebel Souls is a bittersweet coming-of-age story set under the desert sky against the backdrop of music and key events of the nineties – to be enjoyed by adventurous globetrotters and readers longing to escape.

“M.P. Tonnesen has created something really beautiful in Desert Skies, Rebel Souls – a flowing, immersive narrative with a warm heart, gorgeous settings and a feeling of youth, optimism and zest for life.”

– Freda Warrington, author of the Blood Wine series Desert Skies, Rebel Souls is available now as paperback from Lexicon Bookshop in Douglas and Bridge Bookshops in Port Erin and Ramsey – or you can order your signed copy directly from the author at www. mptonnesen.com. It is also available as e-book from major online retailers.

Cover illustration and design by Bruno Cavellec. Cover models Raluca and Neil Caine.

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UPLOAD

THE MONTHLY UPLOAD

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YOUR PHOTOS £50

Win ner

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1 Chris Hunt 2 Grace Currie 3 Gemma Dimsdale 4 Bruce Parkinson 5 Elena Dimsdale 6 Moira Collins 7 Darren Purves

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8 Luke Phair 9 Max Singer 10 Dave Corkish 11 Alex Barlow 12 Simon Robinson 13 margaret woolnough 14 Deswick Point

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15 Peter Smith 16 Janette Phair 17 Michael F. Griffiths 18 William Galbraith 19 Cara Wilkinson 20 Adrian Callister 21 P Russell Vaughan 22 Laura Hickman

Want to win £50? All you have to do is email your entry with the subject ‘upload’ to: upload@gallery.co.im. Make the files nice and big though, 4MB is a good size to aim for. We do try to print every photo following the guide but we can’t get them ALL on the pages full-size unfortunately - they just wouldn’t fit!

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WANDERLUST WANDERLUST

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WORDS Rebecca Evans WORDS Rebecca Evans

Wonder issue, thoughts naturally turned ForFor this,this, the the Wonder issue, my my thoughts naturally turned to the Seven Wonders of the World.

Unfortunately to the Seven Wonders of the World.

Unfortunately the the Pyramid in Giza is the only ancient wonder left to Pyramid in Giza is the only ancient wonder left to see,see, whilst a 2007 worldwide of 100 million people andand whilst a 2007 worldwide pollpoll of 100 million people declared a ‘New’ Seven, including the Taj Mahal, Roman declared a ‘New’ Seven, including the Taj Mahal, Roman Colosseum Great of China, it seems to me Colosseum andand Great WallWall of China, it seems to me likelike some of these have been a bit ‘done’ now.

(You only 1 1 some of these have been a bit ‘done’ now. (You only Diving Silfra, Iceland need to spend 10 minutes on Tinder or Instagram Diving Silfra, Iceland need to spend 10 minutes on Tinder or Instagram to to When you think of scuba you think of scuba divingdiving you you come to the conclusion at least of people have Whenmight come to the conclusion thatthat at least 75%75% of people have imagine tropical turquoise waters, might imagine tropical turquoise waters, been to Machu Picchu already). colourful fishbright and bright but one been to Machu Picchu already). colourful fish and coral,coral, but one

of the best and most unique dive sites any as case, as impressive as these ancientadmiration, admiration, and googling theflight next flightof the best and most unique dive sites In anyIncase, impressive as these ancient and googling of theofnext on earth is quite different. on earth is quite different.

SilfraSilfra fissurefissure andwonders new wonders the world are, I’ve leaving for Brazil, I bring a selection and new of theofworld are, I’ve leaving for Brazil, I bring you ayou selection in Iceland, situated within Thingvellier always a believer that anything of alternative wonders and phenomenons, in Iceland, situated within Thingvellier always been been a believer that anything of alternative wonders and phenomenons, National Park, is a fascinating sub-aquatic humans can do, Mother nature can each naturally occurring, each magnificentNational Park, is a fascinating sub-aquatic humans can do, Mother nature can each naturally occurring, each magnificent chasm between the Eurasian and North probably do better, sothe withhelp theof help of some itsway, ownand way,all and be experienced chasm between the Eurasian and North probably do better, so with some in its in own to all be to experienced American tectonic widens American tectonic plates,plates, whichwhich widens better-travelled-than-me friends, on this onlittle this lump little lump ofwe rock weEarth. call Earth. muchmuch better-travelled-than-me friends, of rock call by around 2cmyear. per Experienced year. Experienced by around 2cm per and much after much debate, exclamations Passports the ready….. and after debate, exclamations of of Passports at theatready….. haveopportunity the opportunity to explore diversdivers have the to explore this this watery wonder, through a number of official watery wonder, through a number of official tour companies.

The crystal clear glacial tour companies. The crystal clear glacial melt water provides 100 metres melt water provides up to up 100tometres of of visibility, more than enough to showcase visibility, more than enough to showcase the awe-inspiring rock formations the awe-inspiring rock formations and and spectrum of colours.

For those who haven’t spectrum of colours.

For those who haven’t dived before, snorkel tours of the surface dived before, snorkel tours of the surface areavailable, also available, and you’ll be pleased are also and you’ll be pleased to to note that dry suits are provided. note that dry suits are provided.

1 1

“The crystal clear glacial melt “The crystal clear glacial melt water provides to 100 water provides up up to 100 metres of visibility, more than metres of visibility, more than enough to showcase aweenough to showcase thethe aweinspiring rock formations inspiring rock formations andand spectrum of colours.” spectrum of colours.”

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Bioluminesence on the Beach, Jersey

Did you know that there’s a fascinating natural phenomenon in Jersey? In the moonscape seabed of the south east coast, millions of small but mighty luminescent worms make their home.

When a new moon combines with a low tide it’s possible to visit these mystical neighbours, and watch in awe as you splash through rock pools that light up with thousands of flashing lights like underwater fireworks, or trace patterns in the sand that glow bright green before your very eyes. Noted by local fishermen for time immemorial, these real Jersey wonders have only come to the attention of the scientific world in the last half a dozen years.

(Please note that due to the treacherous nature of our coast, bioluminesence walks MUST be undertaken with a guide. See www.jerseywalkadventures.co.uk for details & bookings)

3 Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Lesser known that Victoria or Nigara, but no less jaw-dropping, Iguaza Falls marking the border between Brazil and Argentina is a chain of hundreds of individual waterfalls extending almost 3km and plunging over 82 metres at their highest point. Over a million visitors a year visit the falls, with the best time being spring or autumn, combining the best weather with the highest water levels. A series of walkways, trails and bridges offer close up views, and the intrepid can book a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view, or take an exhilarating wet & wild speedboat ride around and under the base of the falls.

4 The Northern Lights, Finnish Lapland

Now there are plenty of places on earth from which you may have a chance of spotting the spectacular but illusive Northern Lights, but one of the most wondrous has to be from Finnish Lapland. The Kakslautten resort, 250km north of the Arctic Circle is where to head in order to avoid standing outside in the cold, getting neck-ache as you gape into the sky. Here you can observe the aurora from the comfort of your bed, in one of the cosy and unique glass-roofed cabins. Rumour has it you don’t even need to stay awake, as a member of staff will come and knock your door as soon as the lights become visible.

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WANDERLUST

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Situated just 50km off shore from Whakatãne in the North Island, White Island is arguably the most accessible active marine volcano on earth. Guided tours by boat are available year round, and visitors get up close to New Zealand’s most powerful geothermal activity, including boiling mud pits, whistling steam vents and most impressively (or frighteningly, depending on your outlook) a lake of steaming acid. With over 70% of this geological behemoth underwater, visitors are deposited almost directly at the crater, which is just 30m above sea level. Whilst seismic activity is closely monitored, gas masks and hard hats are provided; this once in a lifetime experience is not without its risks.

Discovered locally in 1991 and remaining a secret to the outside world until 2009, Son Doong Cave in Vietnam is the worlds’ largest. So large in fact that a Boeing 747 could fit through the largest cavern without touching the sides. Like stepping directly into Wonderland, towering stalagmites and enormous stalactites line this unworldly interior, whilst a long ago roof collapse has allowed in enough sunlight to cultivate an entire jungle and a complete localised weather system inside this gargantuan grotto.

With only 450 visitors per year allowed to step inside, more people have stood at the top of Mount Everest than have ventured into this ancient chamber.

Hiking White Island Volcano, New Zealand

Son Doong Cave Vietnam

“Like stepping directly into Wonderland, towering stalagmites and enormous stalactites line this unworldly interior, whilst a long ago roof collapse has allowed in enough sunlight to cultivate an entire jungle and a complete localised weather system inside this gargantuan grotto.”

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Okavango Delta by Mokoro

The Unesco World Heritage listed Okavango Delta covers over 15,000 square km of Botswana and is one of Africa’s last great wildlife habitats. In the months from July to October when the flood level peaks, it is home to 160 species of mammal including rhino, buffalo and big cats, 530 species of bird and over 1500 varieties of plant. The best way to experience the tranquillity of this remarkable oasis is by mokoro, or traditional dugout canoe. Glide peacefully just above the waterline as dragonflies and kingfishers flit through the air, and elephants, giraffes and zebra stroll majestically along the banks.

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Inspired by the epic scenes from Blue Planet II? Here we recommend the places to visit for underwater Attenborough-inspired encounters.

Completing 125 expeditions in 38 countries, the Blue Planet II team has explored new depths and made fascinating discoveries about a largely unknown world below the waves.

But with those findings comes a very important message: our oceans are at risk and we need to protect them.

THE OCEAN IS OUR WORLD

Killer whales, Northern Norway, Atlantic. Around 1000 individuals follow the herring migration in the Northern Atlantic. They work as a team to corral the herring into tight balls before using powerful tail-slaps to stun the fish.

By John Townsend

A scientist uses lasers to measure a whale shark.

“We have a responsibility,” says Sir David Attenborough, who narrates the seven-part series. “Every one of us. For the first time in the history of humanity, for the first time in 500 million years, one species has the future in the palm of its hands. I just hope he realises that that is the case.”

to the dinosaurs, are in trouble from pollution, bycatch and poaching,” explains Will. “On some of the islands in the Caribbean though, like Trinidad, many communities are working hard to save them.”

Destination: Galapagos Islands Seen on screen: “When you work in this business you often get asked where the favourite place you’ve filmed is and I never had an answer until I visited Darwin Island in the Galapagos five years ago,” says assistant producer John Chambers. “It was the most stunning underwater landscape with thousands of sharks on every dive, my dream location!”

How you can do it: Access to beaches during the nesting season (March to August) is restricted but it is possible to visit as part of a tour. Viator (viator. com) offer a trip to Matura Beach on the north east coast, in conjunction with an authorized turtle protection group.

Guests are collected from the Port of Spain for a moonlight tour and, depending on the time turtles arrive, return five hours later.

From £104.76 per person.

But when he returned to film for Blue Planet II, the world’s biggest fish were nowhere to be seen. The most likely explanation for their late arrival was the effects of El Nino and warmer water temperatures. “It shows just how sensitive the oceans are to subtle changes,” he says.

Destination: Norway Seen on screen: The original Blue Planet featured scenes of orcas hunting heron by coralling them, but recent research has shown humpbacks are now getting in on the action and the team were keen to capture that.

The team did eventually manage to capture footage of the animals, including scenes of blacktip sharks rubbing up to pregnant whale sharks.

How you can do it: Wolf and Darwin island are considered to be two of the best dive sites in the world, with hammerheads, eagle rays and dolphins amongst the abundant marine life, but challenging currents mean trips are best suited to more experienced divers. Whale sharks are attracted to the area from June to November, when the Humboldt current is strong. Dive Worldwide (diveworldwide.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

com) offer a 10-day live aboard trip from £5,745pp.

Destination: Trinidad Seen on screen: Producer Will Ridgeon and his team visited the Caribbean island to film leatherback turtles nesting on the beaches. He says: “It is an incredible feat to witness, as these giant females leave the water and lumber up the beach to dig their nest - weighing half a ton you can hear them before you can see them in the darkness - the heavy thud of each huge flipper, the roaring and groaning of the effort.”

The team wanted to share the spectacle with viewers, but were also keen to highlight just how vulnerable they are.

“Around the world these magnificent animals, whose ancestry dates back

“Swooping in and opening up their vast mouths, the humpbacks swim through the buffet that the orcas have so generously laid on for them, and gobbling up dozens of fish in a single pass. It’s a smash and grab run of epic proportions,” says cameraman Ted Giffords.

How you can do it: One of the best places to spot whales year round is Andenes in the north Vesteralen islands just off the coast of Tromso. But in winter, orcas join the fray. Discover the World (discover-theworld.co.uk) offer a 2-4 hour trip for £99 per person.

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ICY LANDSCAPE TO FLOAT YOUR BOAT Summer cruises are popular in the Arctic, but what about winter at minus 30C? By: Sarah Marshall

Floating perilously on a wafer-thin diamond of ice, a coil of slashed and scarred blubber drifts into the blackened harlequin sea. Skin saggier than a deflated balloon, he rasps and snorts hot air through frozen whiskers, like a knackered set of bellows stoking a fire unlikely to ignite.

Cute? Hardly. Cuddly? Certainly not. But there’s something pathetically endearing about the aesthetically-challenged walrus, one of the many species struggling to survive in the Arctic.

Anyone watching Attenborough’s Blue Planet II can’t fail to have been tear-jerked by scenes of a mother bonding with her young as their habitat melts away.

During summer, when most expedition cruises visit Svalbard, the Arctic archipelago curving the earth’s peak at 78 degrees north, it’s common to see herds of walrus hauled out on beaches.

But to find them in their preferred environment, when extended sea ice creates a frozen kingdom, requires effort; braving mercury-plummeting temperatures and gnawing winds, very few people are prepared to venture into the relative unknown.

In 2016, WildPhoto became the first operator to offer winter cruises in March and April, ahead of the standard season which kicks off in June. Up until that point, only researchers were out on the water

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“It took us a year to obtain the permits”

during those months.

“It took us a year to obtain the permits,” explains Roy Mangersnes, an acclaimed Norwegian wildlife photographer who runs the business with his friend Ole Jorgen Liodden.

The pair, who also have an art gallery in Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s tourist hub, are dedicated conservationists and campaigners with a string of photographic awards between them. Their portfolio of trips, which includes Antarctica, Alaska and Greenland, has been developed to create optimum opportunities for photography without causing distress to wildlife.

built M/S Origo. The set-up, though, is not entirely utilitarian. Filled with superfluous mid-century furnishings - a Welsh dresser stacked with well-thumbed paperbacks and a piano topped with candelabras - the ship’s interior is delightfully charming.

Although the Origo is capable of carrying 24 passengers, WildPhoto only take 12 on board, giving us plenty of space to shuffle around the snow-dusted deck and two upper levels.

Setting off from Longyearbyen at 4pm, we glide into a burning sunset that lasts for hours. Scarlet flames lick mountain peaks and singe streaking clouds, although any sense of heat is illusory.

Although not members of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (suggested distances for bear encounters proved a sticking point) their eco credentials are strong.

Wrapped head to toe in multiple layers, I’m peering through a woolly pillar box, and my lashes are frosted together as if I’ve just awoken from a cryogenic deep sleep.

Weathered but sturdy, as any good sea maiden should be, our vessel for the eight-day Svalbard voyage is Swedish-

“Count yourself lucky,” shivers Erik Gronningsaeter, our guide for the trip. “It was minus 30C out here last week.”

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

That night, after leaving the shelter of Isfjorden for the open Greenland Sea, a patch of rough water sends us tossing and tumbling like rags in a washing machine; one disadvantage of bona fide icebreakers is a lack of stabilizers to steady the ship’s motion. So, we change direction and hug the coastline of main island Spitsbergen toward the frozen northeast corner.

Unlike the crowded summer period, there’s no need to book landing sites, so our adventure can develop as the captain sees fit.

A foggy sun casts bitter lemon rays over the fragmented, sepia-tone icescape, and plumes of sea smoke fuddle the horizon.

Determined not to disrupt the environment, our captain kills the engine and we stop at the ice edge, where a pile of frozen rubble stretches until what appears to be the end of the world. The scene is deceptive.

Continue...

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Continue

Returning south, we wedge ourselves into the ice at Magdalenefjorden and anchor for the night. It’s a site I’ve visited several times in summer but right now, clothed in winter wear, it appears completely different.

Raging reds relax into calm pinks and blues as the tide heaves and sighs into a deep sleep. Veiled by cloud, flocks of ghost birds swirl through the sky, and when the wind drops, a silver moon is perfectly reflected in the metallic, viscous water.

Light is one of the main reasons to visit the Arctic at this time of year, when darkness never truly falls, and dusk segues neatly into dawn.

A palette of ever-changing pastels and eery hues, it dresses everything in a mystifying glow. “You’re missing the best bit!” I think smugly, as everyone else slips off to bed.

Better than any aurora display, it keeps me up all night.

All voyage I’ve managed to avoid wearing the clumsy survival suits we’re required by Norwegian law to carry, but on a Zodiac (inflatable dinghy) trip at Kongsfjorden, there’s no escape.

It’s a wonder the wildlife isn’t terrified by my neon onesie and gimp mask get-up, but a family of walrus seems unperturbed.

On the whole, there’s less ice than ever in the Arctic but wind is pushing a large amount over to Svalbard this year, explains Erik, making it harder to access fjords and find polar bears. This ice is also worryingly thin.

“Svalbard bears will probably disappear in five to 15 years’ time,” predicts the trained zoologist, ominously. “There’ll be nowhere left for them to go.”

Despite hours searching through binoculars on the bridge, not one buttery blob has been sighted. At Smeerenburg, we do spy a hulking marine mammal walking nine kilometers away, but sadly not in our direction.

We’re particularly unfortunate; on last year’s three winter trips, multiple bears were seen.

The lumbering pinnipeds give birth in winter, so it’s not surprising to find a new arrival comfortably concealed between folds of ice. A guard male raises his sabresharp tusks defensively as we drift past, although I suspect he’ll be confronted with greater challenges in the months ahead.

The trill of returning little auks spells spring is on the horizon and this icy kingdom will soon sink back into the sombre sea.

Every season in Svalbard looks different, that’s the beauty of the destination, and no two scenes are ever the same. But if too much change is alarming for transient visitors like us, it’s devastating for the permanent residents - no matter how unattractive they might be.

How to get there WildPhoto (wildphoto.com) have two eight-day Svalbard winter cruises in 2019, departing on March 18 and April 11. Prices start from $7,295 (£5,493) for a twin cabin with shared bathroom, including all meals and activities and rental of a survival suit.

Flights extra.

For more details on the destination, go to visitsvalbard.com and visitnorway.com.

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ON THE AGENDA n DECEMBER 2017

INVESTMENT- WONDERLAND INVESTMENTS

BUSINESS - FIRST AMONG PEERS

TECHNOLOGY - TECHNOLOGICAL BUNGLE

business news

NEDBANK PRIVATE WEALTH RETAINS GOLD STANDARD WITH PERFECT SCORE

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edbank Private Wealth recently had good reason to celebrate.

Not only had it been reaccredited with the prestigious Gold status from Investors in People (IIP), but it also achieved a perfect score against the Framework, meeting all 196 of the evidence requirements. This level of accreditation places the company in the top 16% of IIP accredited organisations across the UK, demonstrating its commitment to people management excellence across all areas of the business.

This was the fifth successful review since the bank was first awarded the Investors in People Standard in 2002. The company now holds this coveted status for the next three years. The assessment included interviews with staff from both the Wealth and Trust divisions of the organisation, and from across five of their office locations: the Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey, London and Dubai.

Laurence Skelly, Minister of the Department of Economic Development, congratulated Greg Horton, the executive head of Nedbank Private Wealth International, and said: “I’d like to congratulate Nedbank Private Wealth on retaining its Investors in People Gold standard - all the team should be extremely proud of this achievement.”

Mick Lynch, who carried out the assessment, said: “During the assessment I was extremely impressed by the commitment to client and staff contentment, staff development, wellbeing, and the overall ‘whole team’ positive atmosphere at Nedbank Private Wealth. It was a pleasure to facilitate the assessment

at such a professional organisation.”

Lynn Kelly, senior training and development executive at Nedbank Private Wealth, said: “Our retention of Gold, the achievement of a perfect score, and the

Chamber of Commerce business survey reveals concerns over living wage plans

A

majority of business leaders support the principle of introducing a living wage on the Island, but many have concerns that it’s not economically viable at the present time, and that it might damage the quality of life here. That’s the general view expressed in a survey conducted

by Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce in October.

A report by the Economic Affairs Division of the Cabinet Office proposes a living wage of £8.61 per hour, a rate which would be £1.11 more than the

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Island’s current minimum wage. Tynwald unanimously agreed to receive the report on October 17th.

The Chamber of Commerce, which is the Island’s biggest business network, conducted a survey of 69 businesses from nine sectors of the Island’s economy, and asked questions about the possible impact that a living wage might have. While 72% of companies support the principle of a living wage as a socially responsible policy, businesses in key employment sectors of the economy expressed concerns

observations of the assessor reinforce the power of collaboration around our organisation and the amazing efforts of our staff who continually seek to enhance and develop our business.”

that it would have a negative impact if it was implemented right now. Only 3% of employers felt that implementing the proposed living wage would be positive for their business and its future prospects.

Some of the largest employers on Island that took part in the survey felt that their business would be negatively impacted if they had to implement an £8.61 per hour living wage without a corresponding increase in demand for their products and services. Businesses also expressed concern about substantial ‘on costs’ which need to be factored in due to erosion of pay differentials.

The full report can be viewed at: www. iomchamber.org.im ON THE AGENDA

Grant Thornton named Employer of the Year

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rant Thornton has been named Employer of the Year by the International Accounting Bulletin (IAB).

The prestigious award has been won by the network, which Grant Thornton Isle of Man is part of, for the third time in four years.

Dennis McGurgan, Managing Director of Grant Thornton Isle of Man, said: ‘We’re always proud to be part of a worldwide network and it’s exciting that Grant Thornton is recognised in the market for its particular focus in the last few years on its employees at member firm and at global level. In the 2020 strategy we have the objectives of being the most recommended firm for clients and employees. The network aims to achieve this through several initiatives but in particular through transformational leadership and what is referred to as ‘people experience’, which aims to put people at the heart of everything the network does.’

At the awards, held in London, the IAB also recognised Grant Thornton’s Women in Business report with the Thought Leadership Initiative of the Year award and global CEO, Ed Nusbaum, won the Lifetime Achievement award.

Members from Grant Thornton at the International Accounting Bulletin awards. Left to right Andrew Dickson (Director – Member Firm Development Europe), Marie Ridgeway (Leader – theHUB), Frank Dias (Global communications manager), Carol Briggs (Associate director – marketing and thought leadership), Ester Teeken (Director – global head of finance), Andrew Brosnan (GTIL manager), Hilary East (Consultant – office of the CEO) and Francesca Lagerberg (Global leader – tax services).

We’ve always been by your side Celebrating 30 years of private banking and unwavering client service excellence in the Isle of Man. For a multi-award-winning approach, phone 645000 or visit

WWW.NEDBANKPRIVATEWEALTH.COM

ISLE OF MAN

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JERSEY

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UNITED KINGDOM

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

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SOUTH AFRICA

Nedbank Private Wealth is a registered trade name of Nedbank Private Wealth Limited. Nedbank Private Wealth Limited is licensed by the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority.

Registered office: St Mary’s Court 20 Hill Street Douglas Isle of Man.

Movers & Shakers

Equiom Solutions strengthens team with two new appointments

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quiom, the international professional services provider has continued to expand its tax and VAT business, Equiom Solutions Limited, with the appointment of two new tax consultants.

Jenny Akrigg has been appointed as Senior Tax Consultant and Sue Billinghurst takes the position of Tax Consultant. The appointments come as Equiom Solutions experiences a period of continued growth.

Jenny brings almost nine years of experience in the sector having worked at one of the Big Four accountancy firms prior to joining Equiom Solutions. She is

a qualified Chartered Accountant and Tax Advisor as well as an active member of the Isle of Man Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) Committee and the Isle of Man Tax Forum.

As a former Corporate Tax Manager and Audit Support Manager, Sue Billinghurst has an understanding of the range of tax issues relating to Equiom Solutions’ clients. Sue is a Chartered Accountant with experience of providing tax advice to corporate and individual clients throughout the UK and Channel Islands.

Equiom Solutions Managing Director, Helen Woods, commented: ‘These new appointments demonstrate our continued growth and reinforce the ongoing development of our existing team. We are all pleased to welcome Jenny and Sue to the Equiom Solutions team and I am confident they will both do exceedingly well given their combined experience in the tax industry and their ambitious and motivated attitudes. We wish them all the best in their new roles.’

NADINE COMES BACK TO CORLETT BOLTON

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dvocate Nadine Roberts has rejoined Corlett Bolton in the firm’s Port St Mary office.

Nadine started her legal career at Corlett Bolton, gaining a wealth of experience in a wide range of practice areas including landlord and tenant law, residential and commercial conveyancing, alcohol licensing and commercial law.

After leaving Corlett Bolton in 2010 Nadine further widened her skillset becoming a general practice lawyer with a focus on employment law, civil litigation and private client service. Having worked on some complex cases Nadine has appeared before several tribunals and the

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High Court.

Director of Corlett Bolton Sally Bolton said: ‘I’m delighted to welcome Nadine back to the Corlett Bolton family. She is very hard-working, always professional and delivers the high standard of service our clients expect. Nadine has a wealth of experience and knowledge which are welcome additions to our expanding team.’

Nadine added: ‘It’s lovely to be back at Corlett Bolton and I’m excited to be working with some of the firm’s longstanding clients, as well as many new faces.

The company has grown dramatically since I left and I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone across the three offices.’

ON THE AGENDA

KPMG appoints Ewan McGill as Associate Director

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udit, tax and advisory specialist KPMG Isle of Man has announced the appointment of Ewan McGill as Associate Director. Ewan has a long association with KPMG and has experience of working with the firm in several different international finance jurisdictions.

Originally from Dundee, Ewan studied at Edinburgh University and stayed in the city to complete his Chartered Accountant training. He then joined KPMG Channel Islands in 2000 in the Financial Services group, spending seven years in Jersey and five years in Guernsey.

He later moved to KPMG Bermuda in the Investments and Banking group, and most recently has worked for KPMG Singapore.

Ewan’s role in the Isle of Man will see him focus on asset management, real estate, fiduciary businesses and eGaming.

“I’m looking forward to learning about the Isle of Man proposition and working with a new set of KPMG colleagues and clients,” he said.

Commenting on the appointment KPMG Isle of Man Managing Director Russell Kelly added: “It is always a pleasure to welcome colleagues who have worked in other parts of the KPMG global practice to our shores.

“As well as already being extremely well-versed in KPMG values and culture, Ewan also brings with him broad international experience and perspective that will be very useful for our team.

“I am sure that he will find working in the Isle of Man, where so many of our clients have an international reach and focus, a great opportunity to apply his knowledge across a number of business sectors.”

Financial services

First among peers The peer-to-peer lending sector has given traditional financial services a shake-up in recent years. We find out how Island-based company Evoke is using the new model to provide an alternative bridging loan service to local residents.

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ON THE AGENDA

“Once we’ve got the approval of the lender we draw up an agreement in principle.

We then work with the client’s advocates to complete the mortgage or loan.”

F

inding the finance to move house at any time can be challenging but finding the finance to move when you’ve yet to sell your old property can be doubling daunting. Traditional banks can be reluctant to loan you more without a sale in place and credit from other sources can be time-consuming and difficult to obtain if you want to move quickly. Buyers are often left hoping for a fairy godmother to step in and bridge the gap.

Now it seems this idea is not quite so fantastical after all with the introduction of Evoke’s peer-to-peer lending services.

Simply put, Evoke matches willing lenders with needy borrowers – so one person’s investment becomes another person’s loan.

Each deal is carefully arranged to take account of the borrower’s needs and the lender’s attitude to risk, with the lender being paid an agreed rate of interest until the mortgage is paid off. A typical bridging loan will be between £50,000 and £500,000, repaid with 6-12 months. There is no age restriction.

As a concept it is quite straightforward, although it’s only been possible to offer the service on a commercial basis since the introduction of game-changing legislation in 2015. Evoke is proud to have been the first private mortgage lender registered with the Financial Services Authority, and has already facilitated more than £10 million of mortgages in a few short years.

The brains behind the business belong to Zoe Hawley, who comes from a family with a long association with banking and financial services. Zoe herself went into traditional banking at the age of 16 and began working her way up the ranks of the Royal Bank of Scotland, spending time in both debt consolidation and corporate markets before developing the idea of an alternative lending service.

“I felt there were a number of clients that traditional financial services did not cater for so well,” she said. “Often this was because they worked in unusual jobs or had a difficult or complicated set of circumstances which didn’t allow them to take advantage of the more established borrowing routes.

“I thought there had to be other ways of helping these clients - and ways that were not just open to high net worth individuals or companies.”

Evoke was set up shortly afterwards and arranged a loan for its first client in just 10 days. “Because we are small and work closely with all our professional partners, we can usually arrange a solution quite quickly,” says Zoe. “We know the types of things our lenders like to invest in so when a client comes to us with a particular

situation we know who are the best people to approach on their behalf.”

While bridging loans have become a speciality, Evoke also helps smaller developers with commercial funding and is working with more clients on debt consolidation and repayment. “The aim when dealing with debt such as credit card and loan payments is to consolidate it and then work with other mortgage brokers to get the client back onto a high street mortgage for the whole debt. That works really well because it often reduces their monthly payments by more than half, usually for a period of 6-12 months, and then they can start again from scratch,” says Zoe. Whether a client is looking for a bridging loan, commercial funding or help with debt, the process is the same in all cases, says Zoe. “We start with meeting the client to discuss their requirements and work out which of our products will suit them best.

Then we undertake an assessment based on income, expenditure and the value of any security and provide a quote to the lender.

“Once we’ve got the approval of the lender we draw up an agreement in principle. We then work with the client’s advocates to complete the mortgage or loan.”

Lenders stay anonymous throughout the process and while there is obviously a financial reward for their investments, most of them have an altruistic interest in what their money is doing, says Zoe. “Most of our investors are involved because they like to help people, they are interested in supporting the local community and doing something for others on the Isle of Man.” Like all new alternatives to traditional models, the rise of peer-to-peer lending was viewed somewhat sceptically initially but Evoke’s ongoing success shows that it is a model that works for both lenders and borrowers.

“It’s clear that because it is difficult to get finance, having another option is always a good thing,” says Zoe. “While peer-topeer is still a relatively new sector, we are fully regulated and licensed so you have the same peace of mind as dealing with the more traditional financial providers.

“It says a lot that much of our business comes on recommendation from lawyers, accountants and estate agents who have seen what we’re doing. And what’s really nice is that this is a model that is not exclusively for the wealthy; it’s open to a very wide range of people including groups such as the self-employed who often struggle to meet the conventional criteria for lending elsewhere.”

Find out more and make contact with Zoe at: www.evoke.im

THE LENDING SECTOR

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PRIVATE WEALTH feature

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Wonderland Investors -

the viability of start-up islands By:Izabella Kaminska

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or those who don’t know, the Seasteading Institute aims to liberate the world from the tyranny of governments by constructing dozens of selfgoverning floating islands by 2020. Initially, they will be based in and around French Polynesia and feature everything from homes, hotels, offices, restaurants (and no doubt casinos) for the bargain price of $60m.

The project is being part-bankrolled by Facebook investor and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel, but also aims to raise funds through the hottest fundraising mechanism in town: the initial coin offering. (Because… well, even independent islands are better off on the blockchain.)

But Quirk’s vision doesn’t stop there.

He believes one day (c. 2050) there will be thousands of such islands offering different forms of governance options to would-be citizens from all around the world. What’s more, due to climate-change these islands may one day prove to be the Noah’s Arktype solution for low-level lands threatened by rising sea levels.

It’s a nice utopian dream. But how do you go about forging it?

In the introductory video (youtube/ seasteading) a good wedge of time is spent explaining that there’s a shortage of shallow waters to place such islands in, because, who could have anticipated, such territories are mostly already claimed by nation states. Darn it.

Hence — until the tech to build floating islands cost effectively in deep waters is made possible — seasteading pioneers are being forced to seek out alternative strategies for getting such projects underway.

Luckily, in the case of the Seasteading Institute, the developers have stumbled upon an amazing discovery. Who needs unclaimed territories to build start-up states when you can take advantage of an existing phenomenon: the “special economic zone”.

Yes, SEZs — “little legal islands created within countries allowing special exemptions from taxes and regulations” — are pretty much all that’s needed. The strategy: negotiate with existing nations who already offer SEZs to persuade them to offer very special SEZs enabling selfgovernance.

And so it was that the Seasteading Institute came into collaboration with French Polynesia.

Eh voila, we now have a project that looks mighty like a cross between the ill-fated white elephant that is the MS The World — a floating ship housing residential units for billionaires — and Dubai.

The seasteaders say they’ve mostly been inspired by medieval mercantile city states like Venice (the “original start-up city” as they put it) and the Hansa League states.

In that vein, once they’re liberated from the oppressive oversight of civil government, they too will be able to flourish as centres of innovation, commerce and trade.

There are a few teeny weeny problems with that vision however. For one thing, their romanticised view of the medieval free-city state ignores that most of these states were not anarchic in form. To the contrary, they boasted highly complex systems of civil governance which levied domestic populations. Some had a democratic flavour where decisions were forged according to representative consensus, some less so. Even so, almost all of them owed allegiance to the Holy Empire of Rome.

Second, being in constant competition with each other, city states were frequently in precarious states of conflict and had to invest heavily in security and defence as a result. The Hansa league proved a temporary exception. But even this league descended into rivalry as self-interest took precedence over group interest, with many city-states eventually being absorbed by nation states.

Given all that, what are the chances that the Seasteading islands won’t themselves begin to replicate the governance systems they’re attempting to escape, and/or recreate them in much more autocratic form? continue...

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...continued

The MS World, launched in 2002, offers us some insight.

For one thing, escape from governance was never going to be cost free. As an academic analysis of the project by Rowland Atkinson and Sarah Blandy found in 2009, citizenship is highly regulated and restricted to the elite of the elite. Purchase of units also came with significant expense and obligation, not least the requirement to pay an annual maintenance fee set as a ratio of your original purchasing price. While residents were given a say on route plans, final decisions rested with the managing authorities. As a Daily Mail article from 2004 explained the relationship between the residential community and the management authorities was not always harmonious.

Policies designed to offset costs such the cultivation of onboard tourism (a.k.a access to fee-paying short-term guests so that they could indulge in onboard facilities such as casinos and restaurants) proved particularly contentious.

Interestingly, while it was originally feared the ship would be set up as a mobile tax haven, this never came to pass because it had to sail under some sort of internationally recognised flag (Bahamian, in the end) to moor legally at the ports of formal states. Formal states, in other words, retained the upper hand in relations with The World because, all things considered, the mobile community was more dependent on access rights to them than vice versa, proving autarky isn’t all that easy to achieve.

It might be argued, of course, that seasteading islands — which aim to be self-sustaining fixed states — have more leverage here. As per tax haven islands or even Dubai, they can press upon nationals of foreign lands who want access to their own shores for tax efficiency purposes, allowing them to draw enough income to import supplies they can’t self create.

But again, there is a problem.

For one thing, the economics matter.

If foreign nationals are to be attracted for tax purposes, the tax deals being offered out must be competitive relative to other states. That means there’s a limit on how much revenue can be extracted from tax shielding services. Moreover, relative to natural states, the costs of maintaining and running artificial states is undoubtedly going to be much higher. Even Dubai’s floating islands draw support from the mainland, and ultimately from the emirate’s economic patron Abu Dhabi.

Natural island paradises meanwhile can compete aggressively due to how low their running costs are in relative terms.

Sparsely populated, resource rich and more often than not protected by more powerful patron nations (something that helps control security and defence costs), it’s hard to imagine how synthetic islands can compete.

Some might say, well, the objective of seasteaders is different. They’re not interested in tax efficiency as much as

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“Yes, SEZs — “little legal islands created within countries allowing special exemptions from taxes and regulations” — are pretty much all that’s needed.”

independence, hence the economics don’t really matter in the grand scheme. Freedom isn’t free and some people are prepared to pay over the nose just to be left alone.

That they end up paying more in annual payments than they would do elsewhere could be perceived as worth it if residents benefit from total autonomy in other ways.

Think of the original American immigrant pioneers or homesteaders. Life wasn’t necessarily any easier or cheaper than it was in their “oppressed” homelands, but the hard work was perceived as worth it because it was being done for their own interest alone. Better to work hard on your own land and contribute voluntarily to shared community costs and lead your life as you want to — ideally with no requirement to pay taxes to your former home — than to work hard on somebody else’s land for a wage and tax structure determined by somebody else.

But the relative cost of achieving autonomy by maintaining artificial floating islands in French Polynesia versus that of maintaining American agricultural lands is on another league entirely. The reason the American dream worked is because the land was abundant, full of resources and

available for privatisation. Not the case here. The only cost advantage synthetic islands benefit from is the lack of an indigenous population to support.

Even if costs could be offset with incomes derived from intangible services provided to the rest of the world, the temptation to provide those services from a lower cost jurisdiction would still be there.

In that light, the cost of maintaining residency on a private floating island may be unpalatable even to the world’s richest elite — especially once other sacrifices are factored in. Such sacrifices include the risk of ostracisation from the rest of the world (especially if other states don’t recognise your statehood or penalise floating island citizens in terms of access rights to their territories), the risk of being taxed or subjugated by militarily superior neighbours, the risk of being struck down by the forces of nature (and potentially having no help from the international community to rebuild), the risk of being engulfed by economic migrants or pirates, the burden of having to be involved in direct democratic activity on a day-to-day basis and, of course, the inconvenience of having to host tourist hordes to compensate for some of the costs.

Over time, it’s fair to assume, the need to overcome these challenges with collective authority would see the states evolve right back into the state structures they themselves are trying to disrupt.

If that’s the case, what really is the point?

In a global economy which already provides plentiful access to much cheaper special economic zones, the exercise amounts to nothing more than a vanity project for billionaires with more money than sense. To suggest the model can be sustainably rolled out beyond the billionaire community, meanwhile, is as outrageous a claim as the proposition that Mars colonies can be economically sustained.

What the seasteaders really are in the grand scheme of things are teenagers.

Teenagers, who believe everything will be much better if only the yoke of parental authority can be shed. Like their adolescent counterparts, however, they fail to realise that going it alone can invite more headaches, work and responsibility than anything they had before.

ON THE AGENDA

We him We call call him the the ‘trading ‘trading machine’ machine’

Jack and his fellow investment managers oversee more than 60,000 trades a year.

They will move heaven and earth to place same day trades for all requests received by 2pm UK time. And even a machine would be hard pressed to beat their 99.95% accuracy rate.

Only exceptional quality of service earns you a title like that.

Find out more at www.rl360.com/quality/jack

Quality at your service

Jack Sleight, trading machine Isle of Man office

RL360 Insurance Company Limited. Registered Office: RL360 House, Cooil Road, Douglas, Isle of Man IM2 2SP, British Isles. RL360 Insurance Company Limited is authorised by the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority. Registered in the Isle of Man number 053002C.

wealth & investments

The Ballad of East and West I recently overheard a conversation that made me think that when investment purists debate their preference for fundamental or technical analysis they miss the point. Using the two in combination is better than either one in isolation.

F

undamental analysts try to determine a company’s intrinsic value by examining its financial statements and the economic factors that influence its trading activities. The analyst will then put a current value on the company by discounting the value of its expected future cash flows to a net present value. If the company’s stock price trades below the determined intrinsic value then the equity is considered to be a good investment opportunity.

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agenda

ON THE AGENDA

Technical analysts, by way of contrast, believe that a company’s share price already reflects all of the relevant underlying information, or that, given their circumstantial limitations, analysis of fundamentals can add little overall value that is useful for decision making. The technical analyst will instead look only at the historic price movements of the company’s stock and use this data to try to predict and profit from future movements.

The investment time horizon for the two approaches can often be very different.

Fundamentalists look at data over multiple quarters or years and will take a position in what they see as an under-priced stock in anticipation that the stock price will correct over the longer term, which could be several months or years. Technical analysts, meanwhile, delineate stock charts in weeks, days or even minutes and their investment outcomes are typically realised within one day to several weeks.

It is not uncommon for fundamentalists to mock technical trading as a black art which lacks substance. Traders, in turn, cite the Efficient Market Hypothesis strong form argument that today’s stock price reflects all future news and thus fundamental analysis is wasted effort. Of course, ironically, the EMH also argues that stock prices move in a random walk and, like flipping a coin, a series of previous 0’s or 1’s has no relation to the next move.

However, surely, the two approaches are not mutually exclusive and it is the balance that yields the best results for most investors. It has to make sense to become comfortable with a company’s fundamentals and planned business activities; and then to use technical analysis to determine what seem to be sensible entry and exit points for its shares.

Recognising an upward or downward stock price trend in order to take a long or short investment position is perhaps the most important concept in technical analysis. Longer term trends are generally more powerful than shorter term ones and, whilst short term positions can be taken in the latter, the rewards are generally less and at a higher risk.

Immediately behind this is the concept that many stock prices have periods where they move sideways, or indeed upwards or downwards, within defined channels.

Recognising these and taking long or short positions at the bottom or top of the channel has a reasonable probability of yielding a positive return.

Of course, even persistent trends or channels come to an end and the investor must be aware for break-outs on either side which can then result in significant follow on price movements.

Depending on the view, target prices are set at defined points to the upside and the downside of the current price and, once reached, these targets then act as decision points whether to buy/sell the position or indeed to readjust the target prices.

Support and resistance levels are prices that individual stocks routinely struggle to get below or above. Recognising and

t

WEALTH & INVESTMENTS

using these within the strategy adds to the probability of making profits.

Proponents of the EMH will not like the fact that this is particularly the case if the major support/resistance levels happen to be at round numbers (10, 25, 50, 100, etc), which can be important psychological barriers/triggers for market participants.

Buyers and sellers will often purchase/sell large amounts of stock once the price hits a major round number milestone.

Whilst it is their glamorous cousin, the share price movement, that grabs the limelight; underlying trading volumes can be wrongly neglected. The amount of market activity driving the share price direction is important, and changes in volume can often precede changes in price.

A share price trend with a high volume of buyers/sellers typically has more strength and will persist for longer that one with a lower volume. Conversely, if a stock price breaks out from an existing trend in a new direction but with a low volume of underlying trading activity, it is often a warning sign that the break out might not persist.

We have focussed herein on equity markets. Although transactional charges tend to be higher, they are particularly attractive for both fundamental investing and technical trading strategies given their overall propensity for longer term price appreciation. However, most fundamental and technical investment strategies are transposable to other asset classes and particularly the foreign exchange markets.

Finally, hedge funds come in many shapes and sizes but one of the most commonly used (and liquid) strategies for start-ups, and which is relevant here, is the long/short equity strategy. This involves taking long and short positions, usually with an overall bias toward the former, in publicly traded equity and equity derivative securities and using a wide range of fundamental and quantitative techniques to make investment decisions.

Occasionally these articles elicit comments or feedback and if you have any on this or any subject please do let me know.

Tom Richards MSc, Chartered FCSI Managing Director Thomas Miller Investment

agenda

71

GRAUd8/Careers

JAMES DEAN, KYLE MILLS, SOPHIE CORKISH

gradu8 [careers]

LAWYERS

APPLEBY

What made you want to be a lawyer?

Sophie: It was something I had considered as a potential career before I had started my A-levels. I did some research into the profession and secured a couple of work experience placements, which helped me to explore a career in law further.

I continued taking on placements throughout my first couple of years at University, which really helped me picture myself in the role and decide that being a lawyer was the right job for me.

Kyle: Around 14, people used to tell me that I was really good at getting my point across, so I should be a lawyer. Although arguing in court is certainly a skill, it is a very small part of the role and even though I didn’t know this initially, my interest in the practice hasn’t faltered.

What is the best thing about working with Appleby?

Kyle: The variety of work. In my two months at the company, I have been introduced to a wide range of areas of law and have been given the opportunity to see work from inception to completion. The diversity of work means that I will qualify as a lawyer with a well-rounded set of skills.

James: The team I work with make me love coming into work each morning. It’s great to be mentored by people who are experts in their fields and be able to learn by watching them.

This combined with an open-door policy means support is always there whenever you need it.

What makes you excited to practice law each day?

James: The sheer variety of work that Appleby delivers to clients means that we are constantly learning and working on different types of matters. As well as working in the office we are given the opportunity to go to court and see all elements of practicing law. The intensity is always high but that makes everyone more motivated every day.

Sophie: Every day is something different, which keeps you interested. You are put in situations which challenge you, but it is rewarding to see the results of something that you have worked hard on.

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What is your least favourite thing about practicing law?

Sophie: At peak times, it can require long hours, however, I think it is widely encouraged through Appleby’s working culture that everyone has a life outside of work and maintaining that balance is important.

Kyle: People assume that you know every area of law. I’m often asked for my ‘legal opinion’ on everything from parking tickets to family law, which leads to much disappointment when I explain I can’t provide them with the advice they are after.

What advice would you give to someone considering a law career?

Sophie: Although grades are very important, from my experience firms also want to know what type of person you are and whether you will fit in as part of the team. I would highly recommend gaining as much work experience as you can, whether it is with a law firm, or another job sector, all experience helps to build your confidence and skillset. Attending employment fairs where you can speak to representatives of a law firm will also help you work out whether you want to pursue a career in law. By doing this, when you find yourself at the interview stage for a role, it really helps to show your employer that you have thought through your decision to become a lawyer.

Kyle: Don’t just assume that you want to go in to litigation. The PGCE gears its teaching towards litigation, which leads a lot of people into thinking this is what they want to do, but other areas of law, for example, Corporate or Private Client & Trusts, can be just as interesting and rewarding. Oh, and be prepared to read a lot!

James: My advice is to be open-minded and get as much experience in the areas you’re interested in. It is really important to enjoy what you are doing. When I left school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do and ended up completing a history degree. During the research element of my course I became fascinated by law, so once I had finished my degree I completed a law conversion. Try to read as much as you can and treat all research and business opportunities as learning opportunities for your career.

ON THE AGENDA

Intelligent and insightful offshore legal advice and services.

Delivered with perspective.

To learn more about our legal expertise, please contact: Appleby Isle of Man +44 (0)1624 647 647 iom@applebyglobal.com

applebyglobal.com

update

J

unior Achievement needs very little introduction for most islanders but the amazing statistics associated with the charity certainly bear repeating: each year they work with 5,500 students in every primary and secondary school. Since 2012, when Junior Achievement introduced programmes to all year groups, the number of unemployed 16 to 24-year-olds has dropped from 454 to 120. Over the 2016-17 school year volunteers donated 2,480 hours to run 340 classes.

One of their most successful programmes is the ‘Company Programme’, which has been running on the Island for more than 30 years. An average of two hundred post-16 students take part in the scheme annually.

The scheme involves young people setting up companies, developing products and marketing and selling those products with the help of mentors from the local business community.

Young people who take part in the scheme are learning essential business skills such as meeting etiquette, balancing the financial books, marketing products, innovating new ideas and keeping a team of employees happy. It also teaches them skills that are useful in life such as teamwork, time management and interpersonal skills.

In September this year Junior Achievement launched the JA Hub, a drop-in centre for students taking part in the Company Programme with a fully-provisioned and functional boardroom, administration facilities and quiet workspaces with access to essential computer software. The space will also be used to recruit and train new volunteer business mentors.

As passionate supporters of Junior Achievement, Sure jumped at the chance to help with the JA Hub and have provided free broadband and line rental for three years to ensure that the facility is fully-connected and able to cope with the demands of a modern business.

An enterprising solution for island’s junior achievers By: Sarah Jarvis, marketing and PR manager, Sure Isle of Man

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The JA Hub is the next stage in Junior Achievement’s mission to empower the island’s young people and businesses have a responsibility to support this and ensure that young people have the best chance of becoming positive contributors to the island’s economy; something that many who have been through the programme have actively done.

Sure is a proud supporter of local young people and we purposefully choose to sponsor initiatives such as Junior Achievement that help to develop the skills they need to succeed in whatever they choose to do. We have been supporting Junior Achievement for a number of years and I personally have been involved for around eight years; a colleague, Jason Spooner, has been a mentor on the scheme for five years. Each of us delivers one-day programmes in schools and we lend our knowledge and expertise to the participants through mentoring the companies, judging the finalists and reviewing their pitches. We witness firsthand the hard work that goes into these companies and, as Sure is a category sponsor for the end-of-year awards event, we get to see the sense of fulfilment that comes along with finals evening. We wish this year’s participants every success and we can’t wait to be involved!

ON THE AGENDA

technology

The best way to recover from a technological bungle By: Pilita Clark

T

he other day when I got to work I found an email from a PR woman I have never met, congratulating me on my new job at a company I have never worked for.

“Sorry,” she wrote in a hasty follow-up mail. “Clearly not concentrating.”

I would have ignored this, except it came within hours of another email from someone who wondered if I would be interested to know that, as a result of the soaring stock market, the value of employee share schemes “has shit a 10-year high of £2.5bn”.

Before I had a chance to say I did find that quite interesting, this writer also emailed back to apologise for “the very unfortunate typo in my last email”.

Things did not end there. The next day I heard from two men, one from an investment bank, the other a credit-rating agency. Both had made email muck-ups they needed to correct.

These people are far from alone. The idiotic mistakes we make at work are awful and getting worse.

I know this, because I make so many myself. The other week, I gave one colleague a mis-typed email address for someone she needed to contact and another the wrong date for a meeting. Then I nearly filed a story with the name of one person spelt two different ways. None of this is surprising considering the relentless digital distraction that afflicts working life.

Researchers have been warning for years that people who constantly juggle emails, texts and messages do not memorise or manage their work as well as those who pay attention to one thing at a time. Digital overload has been estimated to cost as much as $997bn a year in lost productivity and innovation, just in the US. No wonder, when it is claimed we tap, swipe and click our phones an average of 2,617 times a day.

I was not remotely surprised to read this month that even the tech designer who invented the fiendishly addictive pull-torefresh system worries about its impact and is trying to wean himself off the digital onslaught.

I am more astonished that the levels of office bungling are not far worse. It is still relatively rare to see a stonking blunder, such as the $6bn a Deutsche Bank staffer accidentally transferred to a customer a couple of years ago. Or the Bank of England official who mistakenly emailed details of a secret study on the financial risks of Brexit to a journalist at around the same time.

Yet the toll of mass distraction mounts daily. A minor industry has emerged to help people mute, block, control and switch off.

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sorry

“Researchers have been warning for years that people who constantly juggle emails, texts and messages do not memorise or manage their work as well as those who pay attention to one thing at a time”

Most of us already know the drill. Set filters on your email. Automate your posts. Learn to turn your phone off. Go for more walks.

I have tried a lot of these ploys. They are all excellent in theory but hard to put into practice.

One big lesson I have learnt is this: if you do happen to send an idiotic email at work, unless you have caused a stock market meltdown, just apologise and move on. Never try to recall it.

A trawl through my inbox shows there was only one month this year — August — when I did not get at least one message from someone announcing they “would like to recall” an email. In almost every case, I did what everyone does in this situation. I tracked down the errant note to see what it said. Sometimes there is no need to do even that. On the day Britons voted to exit the EU last year, Ryanair’s PR people tried to recall an embargoed announcement that the airline was launching a 24-hour sale “to celebrate remaining in Europe”.

And I still feel sorry for the person at an architectural firm who tried to retrieve something she had fired off to me the other week. Her email began with a perfectly polite response to an article I had written about the scourge of the open-plan office.

As I scrolled down to see why she had bothered to try to call back such an inoffensive note, I saw it included an unfortunate email trail from her colleagues, who had offered their thoughts on what she should be saying to me.

“The thing that really annoyed me about this piece, is that clearly employees have no idea how space is intended to support them,” snorted one of them.

It could have been worse. I am sure I have done things far more stupid. But I doubt I would ever have read this unless I had been told that I shouldn’t.

ON THE AGENDA

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£2,100,000

COWLEY GROVES. WE’RE GOOD WITH HOUSES.

78 84

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

HOME

Ballaugh, Isle of Man

Cowley Groves is delighted to offer a rare opportunity to purchase one of the Island’s premier residences, Ravensdale Castle.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

With historic records dating back to circa 1712 there is no doubting how unique Ravensdale Castle is. Originally called Knockan House its name changed in 1836 to Ravensdale but it was only in the 1950’s the status of Ravensdale Castle was born.

Once owned by the most famous Manx Naval Commander - Mr William Kelly, the property boasts a wealth of Naval history including the passing of ownership to Lt. Col Campbell - Commander of the 45th Regiment, it was the lieutenant who changed the name from Knockan to Ravensdale. In the 1950’s a wealthy businessman by the name of Mr James Barr invested a great deal of money and it was he that created the name Ravensdale Castle. In 1960 the property again changed hands and was run as a hotel until 1974 after which the property became a residential dwelling and to this day still is one of the most sought after mansion houses on the Isle of Man.

The property nestles in seven acres of private, secluded and beautifully maintained gardens surrounded by woodland and accessed via a winding driveway with a pillared entrance that leads to a parking area for several vehicles.

The mansion house itself is approximately 7,850sq/ft and consists of nine bedrooms (seven of which are en-suite), a spectacular drawing room and first floor library, entrance hall and staircase fitting of any property with such grandeur, five further reception rooms on the ground floor, a garage to the rear of the property, a bright and spacious kitchen that opens into a large indoor lawned garden plus the imposing clock tower that houses a top floor turret room looking out across Ravensdale Castle’s grounds.

In addition to the main house there are two period cottages, a self-contained apartment, additional coach house, potential gymnasium and the remanence of a Victorian outdoor swimming pool.

For further marketing material or more information relating to the history of the property, please call Mark Canty today on: 07624 220109 or email: mcanty@ cowleygroves.com.

Douglas 01624 625888 Ramsey 01624 812823 Quote ‘We’re Good with Houses’ for 10% discount on our rates.

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PLACES

The Henley BALLANARD WOODS, DOUGLAS

Occupying a prime situation within our award-winning Ballanard Woods development, just minutes from the centre of the island’s capital, The Henley is a classically proportioned luxury home in the Georgian style.

Providing over 9,000 sq.ft. of luxury accommodation, this impressive 6-bedroom mansion house sits within approximately an acre of private landscaped grounds and features the highest standard of specification and finish.

PROPERTY INCLUDES: n Grand double-height entrance hall with curved oak staircase n 3 reception rooms, a family room and study n Superbly appointed kitchen-breakfast room and separate wine cellar n Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and dressing room n 3 en-suite bedrooms one with dressing room n Guest suite with en-suite and dressing room n Self-contained staff/guest accommodation n Gym and separate games room n Under floor heating n 4-car garage n Private gated community

Price ÂŁ4m VIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED To book an appointment to view this property please call 615000

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Local RIBA chartered practice, Hugh Logan Architects, can help to provide a unique solution in order to realise your needs, desires and aspirations for your property.

H U G H L O G A N A R C H I T E C T S

HUGH LOGAN

Riba

manaGinG DiReCToR PRinCiPal aRChiTeCT

“Good design can and will

add value to your property.

”

— Hugh Logan

H u g H Lo g a n a r c H i t e c t s Bridge court 10 Bridge street c a s t L e tow n i s L e o f M a n i M 9 1 a X

Principal & Founder, Hugh Logan Architects

Phone 01624 825872 email HugH.Logan@HLa-iM.coM Web www.HLa-iM.coM

A one hour initial consultation is free of charge.

Solutions vary and can include — • Property Extension • Property Replacement • Remodelling to improve functionality • Remodelling to improve appearance

Services and advice are also provided for — • Development potential • Energy Conservation • Planning Consent • Building Regulations Colour variations

PHONE 01624 825872 EMAIL MAIL@HLA.IM WEB WWW.HLA.IM

BRIDGE COURT 10 BRIDGE STREET CASTLETOWN ISLE OF MAN IM9 1AX

Exclusion zone

HandyMann HugH Logan arcHitects

Bridge court

Phone 01624 825872

10 Bridge street

e m a i l M a i L @ H L a- i M .co M

c ast L e tow n

isLe of Man

iM9 1aX

W e b w w w. H L a - i M . c o M

H L a r c H i t e c ts L i M i t e d D i r e c to r s g H Lo g a n / L M Lo g a n / r g B a r r s / e P PAINTING & DECORATING CARPENTRY i s L e o f M a n c o M Pa n y n o . 1 2 8 4 2 8 c LANDSCAPE & GARDENING TILING Use of colour GUTTERS MAINTENANCE UPVC CLEANING On printed matter, red is preferred, and if not red, then but practices may use any colour – e.g. their own JET WASH PATIO black, CLEANING house colour. The ink for the preferred red is Pantone 032, & VAN MAN

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H craine Vat r e g n o . 0 0 2 3 2 5 6 3 5

or if printing out of four-colour process, please match using 90% magenta, 90% yellow. For the web, please use one of the ready-coloured gif files.

Exclusion zone There is an exclusion zone of imaginary space around the logo to ensure that no other type or other emblems come too close. Please observe this (above).

Digital formats The logo is available in the following formats: eps, tiff, gif and jpeg from www.architecture.com/practiceupdate (Practices will be asked for their unique registration number and password).

Call Paul for a quote :: T: 07624 388207 or 07624 233064 H OU RLY RAT ES £1 5-£25

elegance personiďŹ ed

unit 18 tromode estate, douglas, isle of man, im4 4qb davidscotttiles.com

MAGAZZINO INTERIOR FASHION

Make your home a

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Furniture

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Homeware

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7-17 Wellington Street, IM1 2AS Douglas, Isle of Man.

Fun Accessories Tel: 01624 617888

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FEATURED PLACES Our pick of the market this month at £1m+ RIVERSIDE

Patrick Road, St Johns £1,100,000 This is a unique opportunity to acquire a country property which has been previously operated as a trout farm providing private members fishing. The property is set within an amazing setting of approximately 6.5 acres of landscaped gardens, large lake and additional ponds.

5 Bedroom | 4 Bathroom | 4 Receptions

SARASOTA

GARFORTH GRAY T: 667788 Ramsey Road, Laxey - £1,695,000

DESCRIPTION > Truly outstanding detached coastal property > Elevated position with breathtaking views > Elegantly proportioned contemporary accommodation of the highest standard > Reception hallway with sweeping curved staircase to Galleried Landing > Lounge, superb Dining Kitchen, Cinema/Family Room, Study > Gymnasium with Sauna, Utility Room, Store Room > 4 fabulous En Suite Bedrooms > Extensive landscaped grounds > Triple glazing, efficient eco friendly heating system > Triple attached Garage with ample further parking

4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathroom | 3 Receptions 84

BLACK GRACE COWLEY T: 645555 ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FIND YOUR

DREAM

HOME DOUGLAS

QUAY WEST

PORT ERIN

PEEL

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2 bedroom apartment LAST ONE REMAINING

2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes FINAL PHASE SHOW HOMES OPEN

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SLIEAU WHALLIAN VIEW 4 bedroom homes LIMITED AVAILIBILITY SHOW HOMES OPEN

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PRICE £329,950

PRICES FROM £207,950

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When you invest in a Dandara home, award winning design, build quality, energy efficiency and specification are included as standard.

Isn’t it time you discovered Dandara?

To find out more please contact our Sales Team:

615000 iomsales@dandara.com or visit dandara.com

SHOW HOMES OPEN

SAT AND SUN 11AM - 4PM, OR BY APPOINTMENT Specification may vary subject to house type and build stage.

Full details available on request. Prices and details correct at time of going to print.

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FEATURED PLACES Our pick of the market this month at £500,000+ DEVONSHIRE HOUSE

43 Devonshire Road, Douglas - £795,000

This is a unique opportunity to purchase a modern detached house which was built in 2001, offering deceptively spacious family accommodation all of which is presented in immaculate condition throughout.

The property is situated in a sought after and convenient location within walking distance of local schools and the Town Centre.

GARFORTH GRAY T: 667788

4 Bedrooms | 4 bathroom | 4 Receptions

OLD RESERVOIR HOUSE

A sensitively updated four-bedroom property dating from 1864 set in four acres of tranquil woodland enjoying total seclusion and privacy. Old Reservoir House is a successful fusion of the traditional and the contemporary, respecting its past yet incorporating a wealth of modern-day comfort and convenience, including a magnificent 43' x 30' (13 x 9m) triple-aspect kitchen, family room and informal dining space. With reception rooms flowing seamlessly one into another the ground floor offers supremely flexible accommodation that also features a wet room

Little Mill Road - £899,500

and sumptuous suite of bedroom, en-suite shower room, dressing room and gymnasium. Three bedrooms and a bathroom occupy the first floor, while a studio/workroom is discreetly housed within the grounds. Offering total peace and tranquillity yet conveniently located only moments away from Onchan and Douglas. The property is distinguished by its secluded woodland grounds through which flows the River Groudle, an enviable setting lent a sense of drama at night with the creative use of outside lighting.

4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 3 Receptions 86

There are distant countryside views and to the rear there is a large South facing lawned garden and paved patio area. To the front of the property there is a good sized block paved driveway leading to a rear courtyard area adjacent to the detached double garage.

CHRYSTALS T: 623778 ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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T: 620232 |Â www.sevenkingdomdistillery.com See more on pages 122-123

APPETITE

Christmas with

GET READY FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON AND SHINE WITH THE HOME FROM WAITROSE RANGE This Christmas, head to Shoprite in Douglas town centre and Little Switzerland to find everything you need to decorate your home thanks to their exclusive Home from Waitrose range.

The decorations, home décor and even the wrapping paper tap into the trend for modern metallics – simple, clean and in beautiful jewel colours.

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There are also Scandi-style cards and decorations for those wanting a more rustic, crafted feel.

There is a wide range of baubles available in both stores. Highlights include the Waitrose White and Silver Twist Onion Drop Bauble and the Waitrose Gold and Pink Geometric Bauble. Also available are three Waitrose Metallic Tree Baubles in Silver, Gold and Copper as well as Scandiinspired decorations, such as the Waitrose Wooden Painted Reindeer Bauble.

To welcome guests and adorn the front door, the range of hanging decorations includes a luxurious woodland-themed wreath and a battery-operated LED Star to name but a few. There’s also a striking Waitrose Wicker Standing Reindeer which is sure to be the envy of your neighbours.

at

Shoprite has everything for your gifting and wrapping needs including the Waitrose Christmas Wrap with Tags and Ribbon in Gold or Silver and the Waitrose Gold Foil Star Christmas Wrap. Pick from a wide range of Christmas card packs such as the premium Waitrose Let it Snow Pompom Luxury Cards with cute 3D embellishments.

Finally, don’t forget the crackers! Shoprite has a cracker to fit every theme including Waitrose Racing Santa Game Crackers to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

Add sparkle and shine to any Christmas spread with the beautiful metallic and glass ‘Cook and Dine’ pieces from Waitrose. For those extra special elements, the Waitrose Gold Metallic Rim Glass Trifle Bowl is sure to catch the eye. Then finish the table with the golden Waitrose 16 Piece Cutlery Set and Waitrose Gold Metallic Rim Wine Glasses.

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Host a HESTON Christmas FROM DELICIOUS STARTERS TO THE MAIN EVENT ITSELF – WE HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS DINNER The Heston from Waitrose range is available exclusively at Shoprite stores across the Island and has everything you need to create an extra special Christmas, ranging from his unique Earl Grey and Lemon Gin to festive classics with a twist.

The range is bursting with delicious products that are sure to be the centre of attention this Christmas.

This year, Heston is introducing a luxury Venison Pate with Sour Cherry. Made with three flavoursome layers, it includes coarse, smoked venison then smooth venison with chocolate and finally a top layer of sour cherry and kirsch.

There’s also a new sweet treat for customers to enjoy, Heston’s showstopping Black Forest Panettone. Heston takes shoppers on a nostalgic journey with this traditional Christmas sweet bread inspired by his favourite dessert, the Black Forest Panettone is made with kirsch soaked cherries then topped with dark chocolate and decorated with sour cherries.

His Spiced Shortcrust Mince Pies with a Lemon Twist are returning this year - the lemony mince pies have just the right amount of zestiness to balance the richness of the mincemeat.

There’s also Heston’s Earl Grey Tea Stollen Bites which have the essence of Christmas packed into every mouthful. The buttery brioche is full of fruit, marzipan and mincemeat, which is then infused in bergamot-scented earl grey and lightly dusted with tangerine-flavoured sugar.

Heston Blumenthal comments, “Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year and I’m thrilled with the products that we are launching in the range. From a nod to the 70s with the Black Forest panettone, to a rich and indulgent venison paté, this new range is perfect for sharing with family and friends.”

Heston’s range will also include the launch of his delectable Persian Christmas Pudding. Inspired by classic Persian flavours, the chef has worked his magic on the festive staple by adding apricots, pomegranate liqueur, pistachios, caramelised orange and Middle Eastern spices. In the centre of the pudding is a fragrant honey and rose butter, and it is topped with a shimmering copper finish.

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CHRISTMAS DINNER AROUND THE WORLD WORDS Sara Felton

When I was asked to write about alternatives to the traditional Christmas dinner I harked back to my youth and immediately considered the 17 years I spent as a vegetarian. Yes, that’s right I was set on the plant-based eating pathway at the tender age of 10 years old, at a time when the words plant-based didn’t feature in most people’s vocabularies particularly those that were writing menus in restaurants.

But fear not it wasn’t all bad, along came Linda McCartney and TVP (textured vegetable protein) were shaped into a variety of meat alternatives, which meant you could be right on and still eat ‘sausages’. Well, I’m afraid to say that I fell off the wagon and am a fully fledged carnivore once again.

So what merits the mantle ‘alternative’ when it comes to Christmas dinner, well so broad is the subject I decided to look and see what others around the world serve alongside their sprouts, other than turkey…

Well, first of all, it appears that here in the United Kingdom we are very much in the

Iceland

Poland

Portugal

Some of the most eyebrow-raising Christmas food comes from Iceland [the country, that is, before the supermarket sends the litigators in - Ed], where it’s not unusual to be served puffin or roasted reindeer – I fear this could lead to some rather awkward conversations with the younger members of the dinner table about Rudolph.

Poland is another largely Catholic country so Christmas Eve is when families gather and eat together, it also means that for this meal meat doesn’t usually appear.

Keeping with the Catholic tradition of no meat, the Portuguese make fiel amigo bacalhau (salted cod) in a traditional Christmas Eve preparation called Bacalhau da Consoada. Here, the fish is simply boiled up with potatoes, cabbage, carrots and hard-boiled eggs, and drizzled with Portuguese olive oil.

Still, it definitely sounds better than their menu on December 23 as the last day of Christmas fasting, meat is traditionally outlawed, and boiled potatoes and fermented skate are served instead. So pungent is the fish that many people choose to eat out in a restaurant, rather than risk making their home smell, sensible!

Carp is the main dish of the meal and its scales are said to bring luck and fortune and by some are kept for the whole year (e.g. in wallets). In fact, this is a fairly typical dish across much of eastern Europe and many families buy a live one and keep it in the bath until it’s time to cook it… but worry not these days more people buy their carp fresh [but already killed], or frozen.

They also cook it in a variety of different ways, not just roasted as it is in our picture.

“ Well, first of all, it appears that here in the United Kingdom we are very much in the minority when it comes to celebrating the big day on the big day.”

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minority when it comes to celebrating the big day on the big day. In much of Europe, the main meal is held on December 24, and there’s not a speck of turkey to be seen!

They usually have two kinds of Christmas cakes: Bolo Rei (King Cake) and Bolo Rainha (Queen Cake). King Cak, dates back to the time of the Romans and is symbolic of the three kings. It’s a bread like consistency and filled with dried fruits, nuts and topped with candied fruit and powdered sugar. The Queen cake, which is very similar to the king, but filled with considerably more nuts and raisins and sans candied fruit.

People drink Porto wine, traditional liquors and eat ‘azevias’ and ‘felhozes’ (Portuguese biscuits and sweets).

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Puerto Rico

A turkey might be a headache, but at least you can bung it in the oven and more or less forget about it.

The Puerto Rican national dish is the roast suckling pig known as lechón, and this almighty beast needs the more-orless constant attention of at least two people as it slowly turns on an outdoor spit from as early as two in the morning.

While away the long hours cranking the handle with a coconut shell full of coquito, a festive Puerto Rican spin on eggnog made with coconut milk, condensed milk and a hearty dash of rum.

France The main Christmas meal is called Réveillo and is eaten on Christmas Eve after people have returned from midnight mass. Dishes might include roast turkey with chestnuts or roast goose, oysters, foie gras, lobster, venison and cheeses. For dessert, they bring out a Yule Log called a bûche de Noël.

In Provence they are are all about the desserts. Here the Christmas meal ends with a ritual number of 13 desserts which are said to symbolise Christ and his 12 apostles. The desserts must be served all at the same time and each guest must taste each one of them. That’s it I’m booking my ferry now!

American Jews

Japan I had to include this one as I genuinely didn’t believe, but it’s true! Over the last four decades, the fast food chain KFC has made their finger lickin’ chicken synonymous with Christmas in Japan.

The story says that as there was no Christmas tradition in Japan the chap who managed the first KFC back in 1970 (he went on to become CEO of Kentucky Fried Chicken Japan from 1984 to 2002) saw an opportunity to make one, and the Christmas ‘Party Barrel’ was born and still remains.

An estimated 3.6 million Japanese families eat KFC during the Christmas season, at least so reported the BBC. Millions of people weather long lines to order fried chicken weeks in advance to carry on the tradition.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

The Jewish and Chinese communities were two of the largest diaspora groups in the USA throughout much of the 21st century.

Perhaps, then, it is not surprising that many American Jews found themselves wandering to Chinatown in New York (or elsewhere) on Christmas Eve. Other restaurants might be closed, but the local Chinese restaurant was sure to be open, and perhaps more welcoming to a group of of fellow expats.

We all know what Western Chinese food is like, but particularly favoured are the most Americanised spins on Asian cuisine: fortune cookies and General Tso’s chicken.

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Recipes FESTIVE FOOD AND DRINK SWAPS TO STOP CHRISTMAS RUINING YOUR DIET

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Roasted potatoes in goose fat for roasted parsnips with paprika

n Potatoes are classed as root vegetables, but they don’t count towards your 5-a-day as they mainly contribute starch to the diet. 100g of roasted potatoes in goose fat contains 316 kcal and 13.5g of fat. n Parsnip is also a starchy vegetable, however it still counts towards your 5-a-day because it’s a source of vitamins and minerals. Adding the paprika gives an extra nutritional boost as well as making them delicious. It is very high in beta carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. One tablespoon of paprika will give you 70% of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A. n 100g serving of roasted parsnips is approx. 135kcal with 5.1grams of fat almost three times less than the roast potatoes!

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Pigs in blankets for Parma ham and asparagus

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n Pigs in blankets are sausages wrapped in bacon. They are then generally fried, making their fat content quite high, 19.3g of fat per 100g. They also contain 289kcal. Why not swap this unhealthy dish for Parma ham wrapped asparagus?

The fibre content of the asparagus helps support healthy digestion and 100g of it only contains 13 kcal. Add in around four slices of Parma ham and you are still under 10g of fat and around 136 kcal.

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Mince pies for Pavlova

n One mince pie can have up to 350kcal, almost 17g of fat and a whopping 20g of sugar (five teapsoons!). A Pavlova with fruit and cream has slightly less calories, with 288 kcal and 13.2g of fat.

It is however much higher in sugar, so my suggestion would be to ask for the fresh fruit with a little bit of cream (as the majority of the sugar is coming from the Pavlova base).

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KEEP YOUR WAISTLINE TRIM WITH THESE CHRISTMAS FOOD ALTERNATIVES.

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Stilton and port for goats’ cheese and grapes

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n Stilton cheese has a high fat and calorie content; 100g contains 362 kcal and 31g of fat.

Adding a glass of port to this snack bumps up the calories another 165kcal. Swap this for goats’ cheese, which has slightly less calories and less fat; 100g contains 320 kcal and 25g fat. Add some grapes instead of the port and it’s less than half the calories - and it’s better for your liver.

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Eggnog for prosecco

Eggnog is higher in calories; 145 kcal and 9g of sugar per serving. Prosecco per glass (approx. 125ml) has only 75 kcal and around 1g of sugar.

Either option should be drunk in moderation as they both contain alcohol.

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Chocolate log for Pannettone

Chocolate log is calorie-rich, with 100g having 453kcal and 22.8g of fat. Swap it for Pannettone (287kcal and 5.3g per 100g).

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Honey glazed ham for smoked salmon

The calories and fat content are similar between these two products. However, smoked salmon is a better choice as it’s rich in omega 3 essential fatty acids.

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Stollen for roasted chestnuts One slice has 254kcal, and is high in fat and sugar. Eating 10 roasted chestnuts instead will provide just over 200kcal, and only 1.85g of fat, less than 9g of sugar, and almost 3g of protein.

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FEATURE

You fancy eating out on a Saturday night? Seems reasonable enough; but if you haven’t booked you can forget it and if you do try to book, it always seems to get a bit Goldilocks. 5.45pm is just too early and 9pm is just too late and there’s so much talk of “we need your table back” that you start to wonder if a take- away in your onesie wouldn’t just be easier.

WONDERING ABOUT EATING OUT THIS WEEKEND?

The waiter arrives and this can also be a lottery. They are either too sullen, sighing when they have to tell you the specials or indiscreetly eyerolling when you ask if the falafel is very spicy, or, you get the in your face, OTT friendly one who wants to talk, tell you what food they like off the menu (I mean... wta?) or lean on your table!

We are NOT friends, back off with the chummy up-selling and take the God damn order, jeez! #moretouchscreensplease

The 7 worst things about going to restaurants You somehow manage to snag that sweet 7pm slot for dinner and arrive all ready to use your allocated two hours wisely when they shoe horn you into the table that was clearly made for hobbits and you feel like one false move and you could end up with your elbows on the table that is RIGHT next to yours. Don’t even get me started on tables with a limp!

Inevitably, the table next to yours will have one of three types of pairings: the stale married couple who literally have nothing to say to each other but have decided that perhaps the deafening silence, pent up resentment and debilitating misery just feels more comfortable in a public arena. They will shamelessly watch and listen to you for the duration. The loved up couple who make you want to be sick in your soup. They hold hands throughout the meal; feed each other and indulge in endless PDA’s. The cackling friends; engrossed in animated chat and steadily working their way through the cocktail list. No point in even trying to have a conversation because theirs is the only one you can hear! #rude

By: Claire Bowie

It’s time for the bill and even the chummy one is no-where to be found. The same one who thought it was a great idea to check on you every 6 minutes throughout your entire meal. He literally watched you put a parmesan, garlic and twice fried chip in your mouth and then swooped in relentlessly to ask if it “was all good mate?” But now, it’s the Mary-Celeste and he’s probably out the back putting creepy smiley faces on the bills.

The sharing platter arrives that the ah-nnoying waiter told you was ahmazing and of course it’s on a roof slate. It only gets worse when the drinks arrive in a jar, the chips in a bucket and the main course on a board, that all has to be strategically squeezed onto the miniscule table. It feels a bit like a game of chess as you move the wine forward the tap water to the side and slowly edge the candle to the middle. Does anyone actually like eating this way??! You find yourself fondly reminiscing about your own house with its real table, actual plates and JustEat app at your fingertips.

The ordering takes a while, there are so many questions to get through that you start to wonder if it’s actually a secret personality biometric test for future customer profiling purposes. They clearly want to measure your decision making skills when placed under pressure. “What kind of chips would you like: chunky, twice fried, skinny, polenta, garlic, parmesan or sweet potato? Will I bring the plates out when they’re ready? Would you like fevertree aromatic tonic with your gin, a dash of Boylan heritage or a good old-fashioned Lamb & Watt Hibiscus tonic? Your time starts now!”

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3 SPARKLING PROSECCO COCKTAILS TO WHIP UP YOURSELF If you love prosecco but are looking for different ways to to add personality to your favourite pour, try one of these fun, fizzy cocktails.

Prosecco comes in three styles: A brut with less sugar (up to 12g),

an extra dry style with more sugar (12-17g), and a dry style (17-32g) which is the sweetest of all.

Brut prosecco works best in a cocktail - here are three concoctions to try...

FELIX’S OTHER FIZZ

GROWN-UP LEMONADE

Grown-up Lemonade

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

This drink is a tiny bit dangerous - it’s so refreshing and easy to drink, you’ll find it disappears fast. Use a goodquality limoncello (Caravella makes a nice version), or plan ahead and make your own!

Ingredients: 35ml vodka, 22ml limoncello, 3 dashes of lemon

bitters, 60-90ml brut-style prosecco, a wide piece of lemon peel.

Method: Fill a double rocks glass with ice. Pour in the vodka, limoncello and bitters. Give it a good stir. Top with prosecco and garnish with the lemon peel.

Felix’s Other Fizz The classic kir cocktail was invented by, and subsequently named after, the Canon Felix Kir, mayor of Burgundy and champion of all the delicious things that come from that lovely area of France, like creme de cassis and the traditional kir ( that uses a still white wine made from the grape aligote).

Swap out the latter for a little sparkly Cremant de Bourgogne, and you’ve got yourself a kir royale, but prosecco makes a pretty lovely substitute - just

make sure you go with a brut style, as the cocktail is not meant to be sweet.

And if you can find yourself a bottle of extra brut-style? Go for it! Your refreshed senses will thank you.

Ingredients: 8ml creme de cassis, 120ml brut or extra brutstyle prosecco, a raspberry.

Method: Pour the creme de cassis into a flute. Top with prosecco and garnish with a raspberry.

Sbagliato Mistakes have a bad rep as being the result of a good thing gone wrong. But in the case of the sbagliato (or ‘mistaken’ in Italian), a wrong bottle made for a right cocktail.

So the story goes: A bartender attempting to produce a hasty negroni picked up a bottle of prosecco instead of gin. And so, a lovely, lipsmacking aperitif was born. Although a negroni calls for equal parts of its

ingredients, I like to add a little more prosecco to mine.

Ingredients: 30ml Campari, 30ml sweet vermouth, 60ml brutstyle prosecco, a wide piece of orange peel.

Method: Pour the Campari, vermouth and prosecco into an ice-filled double rocks glass. Give it a little stir and garnish with the orange peel.

Extracted from Prosecco Made Me Do It: 60 Seriously Sparkling Cocktails

by Amy Zavatto, illustrated by Ruby Taylor priced £9.99.

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WORDS | Anne Berry | The Wine Cellar

TREAT YOURSELF

WITH THE EFFECTS OF BREXIT, DUTY INCREASES (BY THE TIME YOU ARE READING THIS, THERE WILL MOST LIKELY HAVE BEEN A SECOND DUTY RISE THIS YEAR), WILDFIRES IN IBERIA, HAIL IN BORDEAUX, FROST IN BURGUNDY AND DROUGHT IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE ALL PUSHING UP WINE PRICES, WE HAVE HAD TO WORK EXTRA HARD THIS YEAR TO COME UP WITH OUR CHRISTMAS OFFERS. We rose to the challenge, twisted the arms of our suppliers and, once again, we can offer some of the best deals on the Island this year.

Starting at 6 bottles for £33 are the Three French Hens red and white. The white is a fresh and lively Sauvignon Blanc with a dash of Vermentino, zesty and crisp, with citrus and peach character.

The red is a soft and mellow blend of Merlot and Mourvedre with black fruit flavours and just a tiny hint of spice from the Mourvedre grape.

If you prefer a more fruity New World wine, try the False Bay Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah. The Sauvignon Blanc is incredibly fresh and grassy, delicious on its own or try it with goats’ cheese. The Syrah has a savoury character, is not too heavy and has lovely spicy fruit flavours. For £40 a case of 6, these give tremendous value for money.

Slightly higher in price, but equally good value is Montsable Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, both priced at £50 for 6 bottles. Burgundian in style and flavour but without the price tag.

Treat yourself to a delicious Chianti Riserva for Christmas. Uggiano’s Fagiano is medium bodied, smooth and well balanced with the typical Chianti grip at the finish, making it a good partner to turkey and beef.

A white to match is the Carqueixal Albarino from north west Spain.

Delicately aromatic with notes of peach and apricot and a fresh finish. A great wine to enjoy with seafood or with vegetable dishes.

These are both £60 for 6 bottles, normally over £12 a bottle.

Champagne but don’t delay, as when it’s gone it’s gone.

Veuve Clicquot, Bollinger, Taittinger Prelude – all £36 a bottle. Mionetto Prosecco at £10.00 a bottle and the ever popular Cremant de Loire Rose at £12.50.

When lunch is over and you have retired to your chair by the fire, enjoy a glass of Frapin VSOP Cognac, one of the smoothest Cognacs in the price range and winner of Best VSOP Cognac in 2016.

Normally £54, this is on offer at £49.50 and it will not disappoint. Aged a lot longer than the minimum 4 year requirement for VSOP, this is beautifully smooth, with floral and fruity notes and underlying hints of vanilla.

These are just a few of our many offers – call in to the shop to see the full range. But be quick, many of these are one off deals and cannot be repeated.

Don’t miss out – we are open from 9.30 until 7.30 Monday to Saturday and we will be open on Sunday 17th December and Christmas Eve. For our full opening hours over the festive period and for all the offers, visit our website www.thewinecellar.im

For your Christmas fizz, we have Prosecco and

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

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n 1 BLAZER Mint Velvet Black £159 n 2 HAT/SCARF Oasis Neutral £26 n 3 JUMPER Mint Velvet Grey £79 n 4 SHOES Miss KG Black £79 n 5 SHOES Miss KG wine £49 n 6 SHOES Miss KG Black £44 n 7 SLIPPERS UGG Chestnut £80 n 8 COAT Mint Velvet Grey £169 n 9 JUMPER Phase Eight Black £65 n 10 GILET Mint Velvet Black £109 n 11 DRESS Oasis Silver/Grey £26 n 12 SKIRT Coast Black £79 n 13 TOP Warehouse Black £39 n 14 PYJAMAS DKNY Pink n 15 SWEATER Marc Cain Navy £225 n 16 DRESS Coast Green £99 n 17 COAT Warehouse Tan £89 n 18 CHOCOLATES Charbonnel et Walker n 19 TRAVEL MUG AND EARMUFF SET Totes multi n 20 EVENING BAG Mario Valentino Black £70 n 21 CLUTCH BAG Miss KG pink £49 n 22 EARRINGS Ti Sento silver £59 n 23 SOCKS SET Totes multi n 24 SOCKS Mint Velvet charcoal £35 n 25 NECKLACE Pilgrim silver £24.99 n 26 HAT Mint Velvet Apricot £35 Open Monday-Saturday 10-5.30pm. Late night openings Wednesday 6, 13 & 20 December. Early Sunday 3 & 10 December. T: 801213 | www.tynwaldmills.com

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1 BOOTS Barbour Brown £139 n 2 BOOTS Dune London Brown £110 n 3 POLO SHIRT Ralph Lauren Golf Blue £75 n 4 T-SHIRT Boss Orange Multi £55 n 5 BELT Boss Orange Brown £55 n 6 BAG Hugo Boss Black £350 n 7 COAT Jack & Jones Khaki £65 n 8 JEANS Levi’s Blue n 9 SOCKS Happy Socks Multi n 10 BARBOUR INTERNATIONAL GAUGE WAX JACKET Barbour £259 n 11 ZIP THROUGH HOODY Superdry £74.99 ROOM AND GARDEN n 12 CHINA SET Ava & I Pink n 13 MIXER Kitchen Aid multi n 14 SODA STREAM Soda Stream n 15 CHEESE BOARD AND KNIFE SET OCCASION n 16 SET OF WINE GLASSES LSA International n 17 SET OF WHISKY GLASSES LSA International n 18 BEARD OIL Capt Fawcett £43 n 19 RAZOR Capt Fawcett £29 Open Monday-Saturday 10-5.30pm. Late night openings Wednesday 6, 13 & 20 December. Early Sunday 3 & 10 December. T: 801213 | www.tynwaldmills.com

FASHION

DRESSED TO THRILL: You like Christmas, right?

So now’s your chance to like on Facebook your preferred display in the Gallery Best-Dressed Christmas Window competition, sponsored by Gallery in association with Douglas Town Centre Management.

Douglas is set to be tinseltown central as 18 businesses in the town centre are going full-on with festive fabulousness to create spectacular Christmas displays in their shop windows in the hope of winning the competition that’s set to make the capital’s retail centre a riot of colour.

THE GALLERY BEST-DRESSED CHRISTMAS WINDOW COMPETITION

All you have to do is visit Douglas Town Centre Management’s Facebook page and like your favourite display and you could help one lucky business win advertising space in Gallery…essential reading at Christmas and all year round.

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Here’s a list of the businesses who are entering the competition and a little Christmas Gift idea available in store.

1 Churches Bookshop

HOWARD STREET Handmade African Nativity set £17.99

2 Mannin Barber

71 STRAND STREET Fudge Hair products from £8.50

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3 Manx Crafters Gifts

2 KING STREET Handcrafted Wirework Jewellery from £15.00

4 Thorntons

19 STRAND STREET Remastered Chocolate Box’s from £6

5 The Book Company 27-31 CASTLE STREET Speedway Glow Trax £14.99

6 House of Vapes

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11 CASTLE STREET Gift Voucher/Gift Card

7 Monsoon

88 STRAND STREET Marianna Party Dress £69.00

8 Rehab2

9-11 DUKE STREET Flamingo Lamp £50

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9 Closet Couture

LOWER GROUND FLOOR, 9-11 DUKE ST Versace Jeans Handbag £49.50

10 Peacocks

10/11 STRAND SHOPPING CENTRE Pyjamas, Matching Robe and Slippers for mum £37-£50

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11 Warren James

UNIT 1A STRAND CENTRE, STRAND ST Necklace & Earing Set £32

12 Magazzino

7-11 WELLINGTON STREET Christmas Neom Candle £49

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13 Cross Roads Botique & Dress Agency 59 STRAND STREET Party Dresses starting from £10

14 Extreme Art & Gadgets 22A DUKE STREET Signed Darth Vader picture from £40

15 Devereaus’s Fishmongers

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33 CASTLE STREET Sea Food Platter

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27 STRAND STREET Ski Pack (Hat, Gloves, Socks, Jackets & Trousers) from £64.99

18 Esquires

54 STRAND STREET Penfield Hanlon Short Down Jacket £225

17 Shake Lounge 1&2 MARINA ROAD Waffles n a stick £3.00

FREE PARKING at Chester Street, Shaw’s Brow and

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the Bottleneck Car Parks on Thursday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays starting on 23rd November THURSDAY LATE NIGHT SHOPPING 7, 14 & 21 DECEMBER

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no. 68 | September 2017 | the [RELAX] issue

#68

the RELAX issue

Established 1924 BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

01624 673482 www.colebourn.com sales@colebourn.com

£ priceless

57-61 Victoria Street Douglas Isle of Man WWW.GALLERY.CO.IM IM1 2RP

BEAUTY

THE NEW BLACK: 3 WAYS TO BRING YOUR SMOKEY EYE MAKE-UP BANG UP TO DATE Smudge, layer and colour in your eyelids for this season’s new take This season, beauty is all about reinterpreting the classics. On the catwalks, we saw tried and true colours, techniques and products repurposed by make-up artists, breathing new life into old favourites.

When it comes to eye make-up, it doesn’t get

much more classic than the dark smokey eye, and sure enough, this stylish staple got the remix treatment during fashion month, too.

Inspired by the AW17 runway shows that put black in the spotlight, here are three stunning ways to take noir to the next level.

MAX Factor False Lash Epic Mascara in Black, £11.99, Boots

MAC Eye Shadow in Carbon, £13.50

1. Alberta Ferretti’s rouge noir

“Venice at night” is how the MAC Pro team described the look at Alberta Ferretti AW17, which elevates a matte black smokey eye with a hint of red and gold. Perfect for party season, no?

The red cream shadow was applied in the centre of bare lids to ensure an intense colour, then black powder eyeshadow was blended around it, with kohl liner used liberally on the waterline and beneath the lower lashes. To finish, a shimmer powder was dabbed with a damp finger on the inner eye corner for a ‘gold dimensional highlight’. The lashes were left bare, but we think mascara wouldn’t go amiss here.

CHARLOTTE Tilbury Bar Of Gold Highlighter, £32 MAC Paint Stick in Basic Red, £16 MAC Kohl Power Eye Pencil in Feline, £14.50

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BURBERRY Kisses Gloss in Ice, £21

2. Chloe’s cool factor

“Top model mixed with the Sixties,” said Aaron de Mey of his Chloe AW17 design.

“Cool factor with classic nuances.”

That meant a creamy black pencil eyeliner smudged onto the upper and lower lash line, with an extra layer on the waterline to add definition, and a tiny feline flick (sharpen the pencil or use a liquid liner for this part). Aaron then took clear lip gloss and applied it to the eyelid to create a shiny finish. This look was mascara-less on the catwalk, too, but if you are going to coat your lashes, make sure they’re spiky and Sixties-esque.

BAREMINERALS Round The Clock Intense CreamGlide Eyeliner in Midnight, £16

3. Brandon Maxwell’s heavy metals ‘Metallic glam’ was the remit at Brandon Maxwell, where six different jewel tones (emerald, navy, copper, fuchsia, violet and platinum) were layered on top of a black base.

To create the look, start with a layer of black eye pencil, mapping out a wide, smudgy winged shape. Set with black eyeshadow, then take your cream colour (3ina has an excellent range) and apply to the centre of the eyelid, blending out to the desired metallic shimmer. Add a couple of coats of black mascara on the upper lashes and you’re done.

BUXOM Hold The Line Pencil Eyeliner in Call Me, £14, Debenhams 3INA The Cream Eyeshadow in 305, £8.95

NARS DualIntensity Eyeshadow in Sycorax, £21 ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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White Gold WORDS Russ Atkinson

If you’re a regular Gallery reader you may have read about the mythical ‘zero miles’ McLaren F1 internet sensation last month. The one that didn’t actually have zero miles on the clock. That’s Chinese whispers for you (or should that have read ‘Japanese whispers’?), and this month I’ve got some ancient German whispers to dispel.

Whilst musing over suitable ideas to fit this month’s wonder theme the thought of crazy limited editions crossed my mind (along the slightly tenuous lines of ‘I wonder why they’ve bothered’) and after a few seconds of considering the myriad final, absolutely last, very final super limited special edition versions of the Zonda that Pagani kept announcing before finally ending the production run the idea hit me. The Bugatti Veyron L’Or Blanc. The one that people flocked into Paris from

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all across the world to witness in person when reports of it parked outside of a hotel circulated online. The one made out of porcelain. You know, that fragile stuff that you’d be scared to chip whilst attempting to enjoy a meal at a fancy dining establishment, let alone risk acquiring a stone chip in at 254.04mph at the wheel of a Bugatti Veyron. A porcelain car? You really can’t help but wonder why, right? Well, dear readers, I have the answer for you.

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The answer is, in fact, that you woudn’t. And neither would Bugatti, because all of that news about the L’Or Blanc being porcelain is in fact fake news. Sort of. Because the bodywork of this $2.3m, sixteen cylinder quad-turbo hypercar isn’t actually made of porcelain as you might initially interpret whilst reading all about it, it’s carbon fibre.

Still, at least that’s significantly lighter than porcelain as well as much more durable, so the L’Or Blanc doesn’t need more than the 1,001 horsepower of the average Veyron to keep doing its thing on the autobahn.

So if the ultra high gloss bodywork is the result of five coats of clear lacquer rather than glazing and firing then where does the porcelain come in? For this one-off objet d’art, the craftspeople at Konigliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin, or KPM (that’s the Royal Porcelain Factory in Berlin, to us non-German speakers) took inspiration from Rembrandt Bugatti’s famous elephant sculpture as well as the marque’s founder, Ettore Bugatti’s fascination with combining unusual materials in his work. The result?

Twelve one-off, hand-crafted and highly detailed porcelain inlays and features largely revolving around white elephants.

Items on the list of things that received the porcelain treatment include the badges, the wheel centre caps (which conjures up images of a high octane, high speed take on a Greek wedding when they inevitably part ways with the wheels and land shattered amongst a sea of warped hubcaps at the side of the road) and what can only be described as a dish in the centre console. I can only imagine that this is to be used to safely store your contribution to the spread at a dinner party when you’re travelling at great speed to avoid running late.

If the proportions of porcelain are a little unsatisfying, thankfully the process behind the paintwork doesn’t disappoint. Taking a number of weeks to complete, layer upon layer of masking tape was painstakingly applied by hand to delicately mimic the way in which natural reflections flowed across the bodywork and the result is undeniably striking. Bugatti state that the bodywork was then hand-painted, conjuring up images of moustachioed figures sporting berets poring over the hypercar with delicate brushes constructed using antique Japanese cedar and mink hair by a centurion from a long line of brushmakers, but the cynic in me (and I’m approximately 99.8% cynical) suspects that it was still sprayed, just not by the arm of a robot.

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Is there an underlying humour in the choice of inspiration that’s been drawn from to create this automotive artwork (Bugatti’s words) then? A sly dig at the owner, hinting that this vehicle may in fact be a possession that is useless or troublesome, especially one that is expensive to maintain or difficult to dispose of, or in other words a white elephant itself? Given that it’s said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery I suspect possibly not, as an imitation has surfaced in a garage in China, albeit with far less elephant content and finished in red. The obvious choice for any selfrespecting communist, of course.

“Bugatti state that the bodywork was then hand-painted, conjuring up images of moustachioed figures sporting berets poring over the hypercar with delicate brushes constructed using antique Japanese cedar and mink hair by a centurion from a long line of brushmakers, but the cynic in me (and I’m approximately 99.8% cynical) suspects that it was still sprayed, just not by the arm of a robot.”

It’s unlikely that the L’Or Blanc will change hands any time soon given that the current owner has demonstrated their willingness to actually drive it rather than just stash it away away from admiring glances, which is as nice to know as it is uncommon for such a unique, one of a kind creation.

Well, unless you consider the Bugatti Veyron Wei Long that they made just one year later, also featuring some porcelain details from KPM. Think less elephants, more dragons.

And all of this a good three years before they produced their 1,200 horsepower Veyron ‘LaFinale’ too, well and truly taking on Pagani at their own one-off game.

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MOTORING NEWS

APOLLO INTENSA EMOZIONE IS GERMANY’S NEW V12 HYPERCAR The German manufacturer - formerly known as Gumpert - has equipped the new IE with a 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V12 engine that develops in excess of 770bhp and 760Nm of torque.

With a kerb weight of 1,250kg, the powerful V12 allows the IE to complete the sprint from 0-60mph in just 2.5 seconds, with power being sent to the wheels via a sequential six-speed paddle-shift gearbox. Top speed stands at 208mph.

Designed from the ground up, the IE aims to deliver a purer hypercar experience than its contemporaries, which Apollo believes have been watered down by modern technological systems.

The company claims the IE’s radical design which incorporates carbon-fibre front and rear subframes, as well as a carbon-fibre monocoque - was influenced by everything from “tactile fighter jets to apex predators such as sharks and raptors”.

At 186mph, the hypercar develops more than 1,350kg of net downforce, 44.5% of which is over the front, while 55.5% is over the rear. According to Apollo, the IE has an aerodynamic efficiency close to that of an LMP2 race car.

Only 10 examples of the IE will be built, with customers then being granted access to a special European race circuit programme, as well as first-dibs on the forthcoming Apollo Arrow that will arrive in 2019.

CITROEN REVEALS UPDATED C4 CACTUS Citroen has revealed an updated version of the C4 Cactus. The revised French hatchback’s headline feature is a new suspension system with Progressive Hydraulic Cushion (PHC) technology, which Citroen says creates a “magic carpet ride effect”.

The exterior has seen some revisions too, with the trademark air bumps now slimmer in design and lower on either side of the Cactus. New two-tier headlights have been added, as well as ‘3D-effect’ rear lights.

It’s the first time the PHC system has been applied to a European model, having previously seen use in the Chinese C5 Aircross SUV. It works by dissipating energy sent through the suspension by road imperfections to ensure a smooth ride.

A new engine has also been introduced to the C4 Cactus line-up. The top-ofthe-range three-cylinder petrol unit develops 128bhp and 230Nm of torque and is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox - although full specifications are yet to be revealed.

Prices, order dates and delivery dates for the revised C4 Cactus have yet to be announced.

This performance and exclusivity comes with a high price tag, though, with each IE costing from 2.3m Euros (circa £2m).

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PORSCHE 911 CARRERA T OFFERS WEIGHT SAVING FOR BETTER PERFORMANCE Porsche has revived a classic nameplate in the form of the 911 Carrera T, which offers a back-to-basics approach to the firm’s iconic sports car.

The model continues the German car manufacturer’s recent trend towards building more driver-focused sports cars such as the 911 R and GT3 Touring.

Based on the Carrera line of 911s, which mark the entry to the sports car range, the 911 Carrera T gets upgraded equipment over the standard model and has been on a diet.

The rear seats have been removed, sound-deadening has been reduced and lightweight glass has been fitted at the rear. Despite these and various other weight-saving measures, the 911 Carrera T is just 20kg lighter than a standard model.

Further upgrades over the Carrera include Porsche’s sports chassis, a shortened gear lever and unique 20 -inch alloy wheels in grey. Rear-axle steering, which is typically found on high-spec 911 models, is available as an option on the 911 Carrera T. Inside, there are sports seats as standard,

with the option of full bucket seats for the first time in a Carrera. Exclusive to the T is the option of red, silver, or yellow accenting for the interior, while door loops replace handles as in other pared-back 911 models.

Power comes from the 365bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine common to the base Carrera models, but performance is aided by a better power-to-weight ratio and shorter gear ratios. The 0-60mph sprint is 0.1 seconds faster at 4.3 seconds with the manual transmission, while the optional automatic takes just four seconds.

The Porsche 911 Carrera T costs from £85,576, with deliveries starting in January.

AUDI UNVEILS THE 2018 A7 SPORTBACK German manufacturer Audi has taken the covers off its latest version of the A7 Sportback.

The premium saloon takes design cues and technology from the latest A8 saloon that was revealed earlier this year, such as the latest Virtual Cockpit layout and a mild hybrid system with every engine.

The A7 will launch with a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine that produces 336bhp, and can get the car from 0-60mph in 5.1 seconds.

It is paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive.

the A7 can turn off the petrol engine and coast to conserve fuel between 34mph and 99mph. Other six and four-cylinder engine options will be available later. Dynamic allwheel steering is available as an optional extra.

With the help of the electrical system,

Audi has taken the front design from the

A8, but has made it slightly wider and lower for a sportier look on the A7 while incorporating the brand’s Matrix LED lighting system. Other exterior features include the rear spoiler that raises at speed and gloss black detailing for those that come equipped with the optional S-Line package.

British customers will be able to order the A7 during Q1 2018, with deliveries beginning in Q2 2018.

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ASTON MARTIN’S DB11 V8 NOW AVAILABLE AS A CONVERTIBLE Aston Martin has pulled the covers off a convertible version of its DB11 grand tourer.

Called the DB11 Volante, the new soft-top Aston is powered by a 4.0-litre MercedesAMG-sourced V8 engine that develops 503bhp.

While no word has been issued on specific performance figures, the DB11 coupe can complete the sprint from 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 187mph - so expect the Volante to boast similar stats.

As with the DB11 coupe, the Volante’s power is sent to the rear wheels via an

eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission.

The folding fabric roof - which takes 14 seconds to lower - has been put through extensive testing, with Aston Martin engineers using special weather chambers to simulate 10 years of use within the space of a month. Prototypes of the DB11 Volante were also tested in Death Valley, California, and the Arctic Circle for extreme temperatures.

With prices starting at £159,900, the DB11 Volante is a hefty £15,000 more expensive than the DB11 V8 coupe. First deliveries are expected in spring 2018.

The compact SUV, revealed earlier this year, will retail from £16,195. The rangetopping Premium GT enters the range at £24,995.

HYUNDAI ANNOUNCES PRICES AND SPECS FOR UPCOMING KONA

Two petrol turbocharged engines will be available at launch. The first is a 1.0-litre three-cylinder, developing 118bhp and 172Nm of torque, taking the Kona from 0-60mph in 11.8 seconds and up to a top speed of 112mph.

The larger engine is a 1.6-litre four cylinder, producing 175bhp and 265Nm of torque.

The 0-60mph time comes in at 7.7 seconds and the car has a top speed of 127mph.

Emissions of 153g/km CO2 are claimed, and the car will return 42.2mpg.

Two gearboxes are available - a six-speed manual, offered only with the 1.0-litre engine, and a seven-speed automatic, exclusive to the 1.6-litre unit.

Five trim levels are available for the Kona: S, SE, Premium, Premium SE and Premium GT - all of which can be ordered in two types of colours, described by Hyundai as neutral and vivid.

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FIVE GOLD RINGS: THE TOP HANDSETS THIS CHRISTMAS Sure’s deputy store manager Majka Kulesza talks Gallery through the festive offers that will be filling stockings across the island this Christmas.

Samsung Galaxy S8 n An improved battery life and tweaked camera are the notable upgrades from the Samsung Galaxy S7 but the new handset retains its amazing curved display which has become Samsung’s mobile calling-card.

The screen quality is so high that grandad will be able to make out the details of a YouTube video even after his third sherry.

If you’re looking for a whole galaxy full of Samsung products then pair the S8 with a Samsung Galaxy Tab A for an extra £7 per month with any 24 month contract.

C

hristmas is a time for giving and the latest mobile phones make the perfect gift for that special someone in your life. This Christmas Sure has a range of special offers so you can give an extra treat to someone, be that a TV, a tablet or a games console. There’s also an offer for PAYG customers so everyone’s covered with Sure this Christmas. Of course, if you’ve been extra good this year you could always treat yourself!

LG G6 n Competing at the top table of smartphones is the LG G6; a great screen and water-resistant body combine to make this one of the most interesting phones on the market this Christmas.

Even better, at Sure this December you can get an LG smart watch for free when you buy a G6 – so you can get a head start on the January fitness rush and measure your steps as you move from the sofa to the kitchen for another helping of leftovers on Boxing Day.

Sony Xperia XZ Premium n The faces people make as the pulling-of-the-crackers takes place before lunch would make for some amazing photos and the slow-motion camera on the Sony Xperia XZ Premium will let you capture them in all their glory. A stunning 4K display completes the package and makes for one

Apple iPhone 8 n One that’s always near the top of people’s Christmas lists is the latest handset from Apple. The iPhone 8 combines iconic design with a camera that is one of the best on the market for your average point-and-shoot photographer. It’s the Christmas must-have

of the standout handsets of the year.

If you want to watch the moment that mum pulls too hard on the cracker and falls off her chair over and over again on a big screen then pick up a Sony 32” HD Ready TV for £14 a month with any mobile on a 24 month contract.

Nokia 3310 n Nokia is back this Christmas with something more retro than a Morecambe and Wise Christmas special as it’s relaunched the legendary 3310. Available for just £29 when you top up £30 or more on PAYG, this handset is a lot of fun in a small package and is worth it for the nostalgia factor alone. Oh, and yes, Snake is on there.

and we’re expecting the iPhone range to be our best-sellers this December.

Why not complete the Apple experience and add an iPad (£15 per month), Apple TV or Apple AirPods (£7 per month) on a 24 month contract?

Sure’s Christmas offers are available in store at Douglas, Ramsey or Port Erin, or visit www.sure.com for more information.

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PHONE HOME NOKIA 3 – A GREAT OFFER THIS CHRISTMAS The Nokia 3 is a great gift this Christmas.

Stylish and packed full of features, it does everything you could want, apart from break the bank. In fact, if you top up your Pay-As-You-Go account with £50 before 27th December, you can get the Nokia 3 for just £99.

Built around a durable aluminium frame that supports the smooth lines of a strong polycarbonate body, the Nokia 3 has the looks of a premium phone but for a price that won’t leave you struggling to justify them.

Powered by Google’s smart and intuitive Android 7.0 Nougat operating system, the Nokia 3 gives you access to Google’s Play store as well as media and productivity

apps that will keep you entertained and organised in all aspects of your life.

Crucially, for a well-priced phone, the Nokia 3 comes with a superb 8MP autofocus camera on both front and back, along with 16GB of storage that will ensure you can keep your precious memories for years to come.

Whether you’re buying it for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, the Nokia 3 is a delight that stands apart in terms of both style and performance.

Pop in store to see our great Christmas deals: you can find us in Strand St Douglas, Parliament St Ramsey or Orchard Walk Port Erin (opposite Shoprite).

SAMSUNG GALAXY S8 AND SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB A 10.1 WIFI ONLY Light up someone’s Christmas this year with the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.1 WiFi only.

The Samsung Galaxy S8 is a phone that offers an exceptional experience. Samsung claim that the revolutionary design of the Galaxy S8 begins from the inside out. It’s clear that they’ve rethought every part of the phone’s layout to break through the confines of the smartphone screen. Holding the handset, all you see is pure content and no bezel as the Infinity Display boasts an incredible end-to-end screen that spills over the phone’s sides, forming a completely smooth, continuous surface with no bumps or angles- making it by far the most immersive screen on a Galaxy smartphone of this size.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A’s vibrant 10.1” high-resolution screen makes it your perfect entertainment companion bringing everything to life, whether you’re watching movies, reading the news or playing games.

With the ability to stay powered for up for up to 13 hours, the Tab A’s peak performance minimises the frequencies of charging. A hit with parents of young children, the parental control figures allow you to share the tablet with your kids so they can engage in educational content you trust. With the parental control features, you can set limits on their tablet time, choose app categories and monitor progress.

This Samsung bundle is available with no up-front costs if you choose a £65 per month Smartroam Unlimited tariff over 24 months.

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ABBA TRIBUTE NIGHT AT THE PALACE HOTEL & CASINO

Have a Wonderful Christmas from all at Tynwald Mills FOR INSPIRATION THIS YEAR TAKE A LOOK AT OUR CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE ON PAGES 100 -103

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Open Monday-Saturday 10am - 5.30pm Late night openings Wednesday 6, 13 & 20 December

Early Sunday 3 & 10 December

T: 801213 | www.tynwaldmills.com

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ADELE TRIBUTE ACT Â - THE MANNIN HOTEL, DOUGLAS

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FEATURE

SEVEN KINGDOM DISTILLERY

MORE THAN JUST GIN

With its own Douglas Dry Gin at the heart of everything it does, it would be easy to dismiss Seven Kingdom as the latest to hop onto the ‘gin’ train, but it really is so much more. At the back of this renovated industrial unit is the distillery, in full view of diners in the restaurant, but at the front, through big glass doors is a welcoming bar and, on the mezzanine floor, a small, world-class restaurant, with an à la carte menu which features fresh local ingredients, cooked to perfection by chef Will Campbell.

Back to the gin: Distiller Ian WarbornJones makes full use of local botanicals including gorse, heather honey and ingredients foraged from the hedgerows and his own back garden, and the result has been receiving rave reviews. Douglas Dry Gin is modern, clean and elegant: good enough to drink neat, but also pairs well with tonic and is a perfect foil for the small, but carefully crafted, cocktail menu offered at the Seven Kingdom Bar. Douglas Dry Gin is available from selected local retailers including EVF stores, Shoprite and Hooded Ram but the best place to taste it is in its home, the Seven Kingdom Distillery, where new products including the first of a limited edition of fruit gins – Blackberry – are already being trialled, with willing customers more than happy to take part in tastings.

Open Wednesday to Saturday when, as well as drinks, both the bar and restaurant offer lunches from 12 – 2pm and then dinner in the restaurant upstairs from 6pm, Seven Kingdom really does put its customers first. General Manager Charli Dimelow has chosen her staff well: they all offer an exemplary standard of service, with a smile.

“I truly believe that the customer comes first, whether they’re popping in for a quick lunch before tackling the supermarket shop, meeting friends for an after-work drink, or booking a special dinner,” says Charli. “We want them to come back, and to tell all their friends about Seven Kingdom Distillery, and although we’ve only been up and running since August we’re already noticing familiar faces amongst our customers, and welcome them back as friends.”

“It’s so important to

us that our customers go away knowing that they’ve eaten at one of the best restaurants on the Island”

In fact, Seven Kingdom Distillery is proving so popular that Charli is planning to extend the restaurant and bar opening hours early next year. In November Seven Kingdom launched the highly successful ‘Skinny Thursdays’ featuring Thomson & Scott Skinny Prosecco (high in taste but low in sugar, with fewer calories, organic and vegan) and soon there will be ‘Ginslinger Wednesdays’ and regular live music nights. But don’t be alarmed - it won’t be raucous and intrusive, but background jazzy music from some of the most talented musicians the Island has to offer.

But before that it’s Christmas. Seven

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Kingdom is taking restaurant bookings now, with its Christmas à la carte menu available from 2 December. But you’ll have to be quick, it’s booking up fast so call Charli or Dawn now on 01624 620232 or via contact@sevenkingdomdistillery.com.

Seven Kingdom Distillery has also been popular for private hire and charity bookings. “Our layout is ideal for this, as we can hire out the bar or restaurant separately, or even the whole venue, often outside our normal opening hours – everything is open to negotiation,” laughs Charli. “The restaurant has 43 covers, the bar area is very flexible, and we’re happy to talk to you to see how our space fits your requirements. Again, just give me a call!”

Just four months since it opened, Seven Kingdom is already on the radar of the Island’s discerning socialites, whether they’re there for the gin or would prefer to sample the long list of whiskies and rums, or for the restaurant, which has received five star reviews for its menus and the consistently high standard of the food.

“It’s so important to us that our customers go away knowing that they’ve eaten at one of the best restaurants on the Island,” says Charli, “and that when they return whether it’s in a week or a month they will once again be able to choose dishes which use minimum ingredients offering maximum taste, even if the menu itself has changed.

Quality and consistency – that’s what we offer, in our food, our gin and in our friendly, knowledgeable service. And that’s why our customers return.”

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Seven Kingdom Distillery, Banks Circus, off North Quay, Douglas.

T: 01624 620232 www.facebook.com/ sevenkingdomdistillery www.sevenkingdomdistillery.com Also available to book via Miquando

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BRIDGING LOANS, DEVELOPMENT LOANS, DEBT CONSOLIDATION & BUSINESS LOANS

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU NEED .IM

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MORE INFORMATION ON PAGES 64-65

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l a i c e p S d n e k e t We eakfas r B d

Di

d an e B , nner

Available Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights between 29th September 2017 – 25th March 2018* Includes: • Overnight stay for two people sharing a standard double or twin room • Three course Carvery dinner in Paragon Restaurant • Full English Breakfast • Full use of the Palace Health Club facilities including swimming pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna and gym • £5 free Palace Casino chip per couple

£75

To book:

per r oom, per night

Please call 01624 697070 or email reservations@palacehotel.co.im Office hours: 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday (NB Palace Health Club swimming pool will be closed between 8th - 23rd October 2017 for maintenance) * Terms and Conditions apply

Weekend Special AT THE SEFTON

£80.00 per room, per night Bed & Breakfast to include a bottle of House Wine

Available Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights between 29th September 2017 25th March 2018** Includes: • Overnight stay for two people sharing a Standard or Atrium double/ twin room • Bottle of House wine in your bedroom * • Full English Breakfast • Full use of Sefton Hotel Swimming pool and Express gym • Upgrade to a luxury Sefton Suite for an extra £59

To book, please call: 01624 697070 or email: reservations@seftongroup.co.im Office hours: 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday

www.seftonhotel.co.im •

/SeftonIOM

• Add dinner for two at ‘Harbour Lights at the Sefton’ for an extra £34 per couple *Terms and conditions apply ** Red, White or Rosé wine – please specify upon booking.

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