February 2015 | the PAIRING issue |

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Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no 39 | February 2015 | the [PAIR ING] issue

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

£ priceless

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£49 on £46/m £49 on £46/m £49 on £46/m

HTC One M8

Sony Xperia Z3

Samsung Galaxy S5

While stocks last. Offer available on 24 month contracts.

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we can provide

quality coverage PAPA RAZ ZI

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.

BY GA

DE IN THE ISLE S MA OF MA LEN N

Y ER LL

CONTRIBUTORS

WHO WE ARE PUBLISHER

EDITORIAL

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

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

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

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ILLUSTRATIONS

Russ Atkinson Jon Moore

PAPARAZZI

T: 01624 619540 paparazzi@gallery.co.im

DESIGN STUDIO

DISTRIBUTION

If you would like a professional photographer to cover your event or party, get in touch.

Gallery’s paparazzi can attend your event, provide you with all images on CD for your use and also promote your event online and in print, all for a small £ charge.

Tel : 249249 or email: paparazzi@gallery.co.im

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

Emma Cooke Steve Redford Russ Atikinson Katherine Mather

PHOTOGRAPHY

GALLERY MAGAZINE

Peter Kwiecinski Steve Babb Hazel Walsh Liam Gilman

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

Recycle.

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

Don’t forget you cn view all previous issues on our website.

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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

#39 [PAIR.INGS] .

Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no 39 | February 2015 | the [PAIR ING] issue

£ priceless

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W

elcome to Gallery 2015. February marks the start of what is going to be an exciting year for Gallery. We have some new ideas in the pipeline and look forward to sharing them with you in the very near future.

You’re all no doubt back in the throws of work by now. This year seems like a whirlwind already in the Gallery office. That’s what happens when you finally get back into the swing of things a week into the new year with a deadline two weeks later! Fortunately we’ve all had our macs working overdrive to get this issue together and out on time.

COVER CREDIT PHOTOGRAPHY

Jewell Photography MODELS

Zoe & Rosie MAKE UP

Charlotte Easton HAIR

Utopia

We’re already a whole twelfth of the way into the year. I imagine, therefore, that a great proportion of you are struggling to maintain an exercise regime whilst refraining from smoking, drinking, chocolate, swearing and all other things people tend to enjoy doing. Oh yes, you too could have a bigger, better life this year free from all unhealthy and unworthy influences... if you’re strong willed and, well, quite boring. In my opinion no-one should have to feel that on the last day of the year they have to commence the spiritual and behavioural equivalent of a yo-yo diet. Let’s face it, if you didn’t manage to do it last year, chances are you won’t do it this year. My New Year’s resolution; don’t make any New Year’s resolutions.

I know this may sound a bit negative, so let me get to the point. Why not make a concerted effort to do all that kind of positive thinking every day. A wise Greek man called Horace once told us to ‘Seize the day’. I therefore think, why not do it with every day, not just the last day of the year? Go on, make a profound life resolution today. Who cares if you don’t keep it, you can make another one tomorrow.

So lets get the year ahead going with this the first issue of 2015. We hope that all your New Year’s resolutions, hopes and dreams come true for you in the year ahead.

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

SR P.S Valentines - Don’t forget it’s valentines day on the 14th, you have been warned!

FACEBOOK.COM/ GALLERYIOM

PUBLISHED WITH GUSTO IN THE ISLE OF MAN BY

Gallery, Agenda, Places, and Paparazzi are trading styles of 221 Media. Registered in the Isle of Man no. 125981C.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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DIAMONDS at 76 Wilkins Jewellers of Strand Street, Douglas are renowned for their unrivalled collection of some of the world’s most prestigious watch brands. With more than 8 watch brands in store including Rolex, Omega and Hublot they really are the store to visit when looking for your next timepiece.

But Wilkins are first and foremost a diamond jeweller, and with a stunning collection of diamond engagement rings and jewellery they really are the jeweller with everything.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching we have chosen our very favourite collection of diamond engagement rings to inspire that secret proposal; the Vintage Style Halo Ring.

years and with celebrities like Natalie Portman, Kaley Cuoco and Katherine Heigl also coveting this stunning design the Halo ring truly is a beautiful way to show off your love for one another.

This beautiful modern take on a very vintage style has been the ‘must-have ring’ for brides for the past couple of

www.wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk

Call in or email our team and let us help you find the perfect ring.

Versatile enough to encompass any shaped central stone, the halo style is a true reflection of your bride to be. A classic round brilliant cut or cushion cut diamond are the most traditional choices but more contemporary brides are opting for a step-cut stone like Emerald or Assher.

One of the beautiful benefits of this style of ring is that it accommodates a range of diamond sizes and, therefore, budgets.

We can guide you through the process of choosing your stone and present you with a range of beautiful options.

Smaller central stones are enhanced by the diamond collar and larger stones are complimented; in every case this style offers feminine, eye catching appeal.

The diamonds that surround the central stone add to the vintage style with hints of The Great Gatsby and roaring 20’s glamour. Further enhanced by the diamonds on the shoulders the Halo Ring is every bride-to-be’s dream.

styles but 18ct yellow and rose gold’s also make for beautiful rings. The softer coloured gold’s add warmth that compliments all skin tones.

When it comes to choosing the perfect ring for your loved one it can be a very daunting task but Wilkins has a dedicated team of highly trained staff that are ready and waiting to answer all your questions. We can take you through diamond colours, clarities and weights; show you the different metals available and offer guidance on sizing.

It doesn’t just stop there, we are also stockists of stunning wedding bands to compliment your chosen engagement ring and all engagement rings purchased from Wilkins come with exclusive discounts on your chosen wedding bands.* Call in or email our team and let us help you find the perfect ring. *See in store for details.

This stunning collection is shown here in 18ct white gold and platinum

76 Strand Street, Douglas Isle of Man IM1 2EW T: 01624 690450 E: enquiries@wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk www.wilkinsthejeweller.co.uk

/Wilkinsjewellers

UPFRONT

CONTENTS Jacqueline Street & FEATURE

FEATURE

UPFRONT

ME & MY PET

UPFRONT

UPFRONT

THE WEDDING OF It’s said that “the road to hell is paved with good intentions” - never is this more depressingly true than midway through the month of February. It’s easy to commit to the idea of a punishing diet when you’re collapsed on the couch on December 27th, worrying about whether death by gout will take you down before dad has to use his new power washer to break up a solid mass of mince pie blocking your colon. It’s nothing to swear off the drink on January 2nd, when it feels like somebody has been dragging your liver behind a truck, but the idea becomes less attractive the longer you’ve been back at work. Your liver still looks like an Eastenders villain, but you need the prospect of sweet boozy oblivion to prevent you from throttling your boss with a length of network cable. Don’t even get me started on the gym, which seems like a good idea until you realise that the

UPFRONT

Jacqueline Street with Junior, Max & Buddy

Tom & Lorna Richards

combination of dreadful music and shirtless meatheads everywhere means that you’ve just paid £400 for a season ticket to the worst nightclub in Spain.

PHOTOGRAPHS | Liam Gilman

If you don’t want to spend the rest of 2015 feeling like an abject failure, I recommend that you give yourself a do-over and reset your resolutions to something a touch more manageable. Think of it as an investment in your self-confidence. If you can get through 2015 without drinking snakebite every lunchtime or having a bacon heart attack you might stand a better chance of making 2016 your year as a teetotal vegan with more muscles than the rugby club shower.

Human Questions: Breed: White Caucasian

You promised on January 1st: never to smoke cigarettes again.

Progress in the last month: four smokeless days climbing the walls, barking at family members like a Rottweiler with toothache and enduring vivid hallucinations of 20 Benson crawling across the ceiling like the baby from Trainspotting. Broke down one afternoon, found yourself eating handfuls of nicotine gum and hunting a dirty contact buzz by sucking in the fetid smog that hovers around pub ashtrays.

A more realistic target: aim to switch to an e-cigarette. Either get the supermarket kind, which smashes your addiction to nicotine by costing as much as a packet of fags but breaking after a few hours, or the fancy provaper model from the internet. It destroys the social pleasure of smoking by forcing people to avoid you in case they get another 40 minute lecture about why you went for a pineapple-sprout 12mg blend over one that tastes like bubblegum and causes brain damage in lab rats.

You promised on January 1st: to start that arts & crafts project you dreamed up as a way to prove that years of telly and lager haven’t killed off the creative spirit of your younger self.

Progress in the last month: bought a book on knitting/sewing/flower arranging from Amazon, registered accounts on Etsy and Pinterest and started telling people about all the cool stuff you’re going to make (them buy). Also purchased some bafflingly expensive craft materials and spent an hour unwrapping a single ball of wool.

WORDS Grant Runyon ILLUSTRATION Sarah Gabison

A more realistic target: start with drawing moustaches on people in magazines, step up to colouring books and biro desk doodles after a week or two. Instead of upcycling a wedding dress and pricing it at £900 on Etsy, cut the sleeves off a few T shirts and make a puppet out of an old sock.

HANDS UP IF YOU MADE ANY NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS. KEEP THEM UP IF YOU HAVEN’T BROKEN THEM YET, BECAUSE YOU’RE CLEARLY A STRONGER MAN THAN ME AND ALL I PROMISED WAS THAT I WASN’T GOING TO PASS OUT ON THE TOILET AGAIN WITH A CHOCOLATE ORANGE MELTING IN THE POCKET OF MY DRESSING GOWN.

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You promised on January 1st: to read Moby Dick, War and Peace or some other cultural doorstop with more intellectual cred than the Dan Brown novels and TV listings magazines that are your only regular contact with the written word.

Likes: Gordon Setters (obviously), Ornithology & Natural History, Aviation & world travel, Horticulture & DIY, Photography, music and most sports. Spending quality time with my family & friends and of course living on the Isle of Man.

Progress in the last month: told everybody at work, registered an annoying website to guilt people into giving you cash and vaguely thought about going for a run to get in shape. The sense of smug selfsatisfaction lead you to reward yourself with an 800 calorie bacon sandwich.

Progress in the last month: you bought at least one novel, read five pages before falling asleep and this article is the only thing you’ve read since that isn’t the instructions on a packet of Super Noodles.

A more realistic target: the secret is that nobody really reads War and Peace because it’s impossible to remember everybody’s names. Moby Dick is available as a pretty decent audiobook, and it’s easy to remember the characters because one has a peg leg and another is a whale.

You promised on January 1st: to begin a raw-food, paleo, red carpet detox or some other pseudo-diet made up by Californian hippy con artists.

Progress in the last month: three days of forcing down kale, two moderately satisfying dinners of poached chicken and a lot of sliced carrots. Followed by a weekend of wholemeal pasta without parmesan (salted with your tears) before erupting in grease-starved fury on Monday lunchtime.

You ate two Big Macs with extra bacon and a milkshake that you bribed the staff to beef up with runoff from one of the fryers.

A more realistic target: don’t fry food at home, drastically cut down on ready meals and save money by eating a lot of vegetables. If you buy an exercise bike, and work out exactly how many miles you have to cycle to burn off a single Twix, you’ll see them for the evil caramel-laced bastards they truly are.

Robyn and Biddy have lives with us in Cattery longer than any of other residents and they really don’t understand why no-one wants to give them the chance of a

Dislikes: People who put their own selfish needs before providing the appropriate care for their children and/or animals.

Benefit scroungers, contrived unfairness, poor hygiene & table manners.

A more realistic target: either reschedule your event to take advantage of some wacky corporate charity month later in the year (“Bono-ctober”), or start forging the evidence of your naked run across the Kalahari by going to the sand dunes, sucking in your gut for the camera and borrowing a nativity play donkey to add in some convincing local colour.

new life. They were when they & Biddy nervous in to us but they’ve Robyn settled really wellfirstandcame get on with the other

If an animal what would you be: I’d rather be a bird such as a Hyacinth Macaw but if it has to be an animal then I think it would be a Ring Tailed Lemur.

Where do you live on the Island?

Near the South Barrule Plantation.

Where are you originally from? West Sussex.

You promised on January 1st: to go to the gym every day, because that’s the only way you’ll get value from the ‘premium’ gym membership, £90 gym shoes and the impulse purchase of a dustbin full of protein powder.

What do you do for a living?

I’m responsible for the day to day management of the Milan Veterinary Branch Practice based in Castletown.

Progress in the last month: an induction session followed by 20 minutes on a cross trainer. A 30 minute weights workout the next day, then four days feeling like you’ve been interrogated by the CIA. You’ve realised that protein powder tastes like ice cream with sand in it, and that you never want to hear ‘Rhythm Is A Dancer’ again as long as you live.

TOM AND LORNA RICHARDS WERE MARRIED AT 3PM ON SATURDAY 22ND NOVEMBER 2014 AT THE KING WILLIAM’S COLLEGE CHAPEL.

A more realistic target: get healthier by osmosis by forcing yourself to go to the gym every day, but leaving it optional as to whether you actually do any exercise. Either you get guilted into working out just to pass the time, or the long hours you spend drinking dubious XXTREME energy drinks and watching Sky News in the recovery room will lead somebody to offer you weightlifting tips, a bespoke action plan for that vibrating toilet chair thing, or possibly just some discount steroids.

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BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

feature_one.indd All Pages

Give an animal a home

Age: 51

You promised on January 1st: to do something vaguely unusual, arduous and probably embarrassing for charity.

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The weather proved kind with a sunny, dry and still day. The candlelit ceremony was attended by 85 guests; a mixture of on and off island family and friends.

The wedding feast was followed by the cutting of the cake and Tom and Lorna’s first dance. Fantastic live music from Joey Wylde and the Divided Opinions brought the evening to a close.

Following the wedding service, a champagne and mulled wine reception was held at The Abbey Restaurant to the tuneful music of the 4tissimo string quartet and a splendid wedding feast of crab claws and beef wellington which was a credit to the restaurant’s fine chefs. After dinner and a number of warm and heart felt family speeches, the newly married couple and guests were treated to a highly humorous guitar and vocal serenade from Bob Dix, lead usher.

Shortly after the day, the newly weds jetted off for a fabulous two week honeymoon in Saint Lucia.

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Tom is a Director at Thomas Miller Investment, and Lorna is Head of Gaming Development at SMP Partners. The couple would like to thank everyone who helped and attended for making it such a special day.

Do you have any more pets? Yes, I have two more Gordon Setters, Buddy (ex Dogs Trust) & Max (ex Pauline’s Rescue ROI). Buddy is a PAWS FOR THERAPY DOG, having qualified as a visiting assistance & rehabilitation

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will celebrate his 32nd birthday in July.

Pet Questions:

Would you have any more pets?

No, not whilst my current ‘family’ are alive. Although I am an animal lover, it is important not to be selfish ‘collecting’ animals, you need to consider can you afford the pet, do you have the room to provide the appropriate habitat, have you the time and energy 365 days a year (especially in the case of dogs).

Another factor often overlooked is the provision of care for your animals in the event of illness or your death.

Breed: Gordon Setter.

The best & worst thing about having a pet is? Although a much clichéd comment ‘unconditional love & companionship’ is as true today as it was thousands of years ago.

animal five years ago. My ‘family’ also includes three chinchilla’s re-homed from the ManxSPCA last January. Last but by no means least I have a Great White Cockatoo who has lived with us for the past 29 years and this year he

For me the pure pleasure of watching an animal from a re-homing centre settle into your home is a tough act to follow. The worst thing is, when it is time to say goodbye.

Age: 5 Years old Likes: My human family, my stepbrothers, food, chasing rabbits, pheasants, cats and anything else daft enough to enter my garden. Walking in the many glens & forests on the island. Sleeping by the Aga or on the rug in front of the log burner.

Dislikes: Being told off by my older stepbrother when I play too enthusiastically.

If human what would you be? I would have liked to have been King James I of England or present day, I think a quality control food taster would be a good fun.

Why do you love your human: She provides me with the fun, loving, secure environment I need, plus the food is really good!

If you had one wish what would you wish for: Access to the fridge

cats in our social rooms. They’re nine year old tabby and white brother and sister who were not used to going outside as they were housecats before thy came to us but they now love sunbathing in our enclosed cat garden. Biddy likes to be stroked and Robyn love to keep an eye on what you’re doing – from a safe distance. They’d like a home with a patient owner who is used to cats and who will give them the time they need to settle down and become loving and happy companions. They’d like to live in the South of the Island as they’ve already experienced the delights of the North and they’ll enjoy going out into the sunshine once they have become accustomed to their new home and established a bond with their owner. Please give this pretty pair a home and they’ll repay you with years of love and purrs.

Ollie is such a love!

He’s a brindle and white Staffie who is really well-mannered and loves to please you. He’s responding really well to his regular training sessions in the Play Barn and he’s looking forward to finding his own special person top love very soon – maybe it could be you. He’s just needs somebody who understands Staffies and can channel his loyalty and devotion as well as his enthusiasm for life so he can become the perfect pet. Because Ollie is a bouncy boy, just three years old, we would not be happy sending him to a home with young children but if you want a fun, happy lively friend to share your life why not come along and meet Ollie – he’s a little star! Staffies are so eager to please their loved ones that they can be trained to behave in a way which is totally alien to their true character by irresponsible owners and lovely dogs like Ollie suffer because of this. If you are prepared to give up your time for Ollie he’ll love you forever and be your best mate. Give Ollie a chance, please.

Ollie

ManxSPCA • Ard Jerkyll, East Foxdale • Tel: 851672

www.manxspca.com

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23/01/2015 16:44

FEATURE

FEATURE

CULTURE

You could win up to £200

Rachel Miles

CULTURE

FEBRUARY 2015 FINALIST

WORDS Grace Ryan ILLUSTRATION Liam Nunn

It just breaks my heart. They are so beautiful, so talented, but somehow can’t find a partner and will probably spend Valentine’s day curled up with a copy of 50 Shades and a dented box of Milk Tray chocolates bought from the late night garage. All these lonely superstars have to console themselves is fantastic wealth, the option of never working again and the opportunity to have wanton, no-strings rumpy pumpy with one or more of their millions of adoring fans. It must be awful.

TOM CRUISE & GWYNETH PALTROW Why haven’t they found love? One is the creepy public face of a celebrity lifestyle cult, the other took his shirt off in Top Gun.

photographers

wanted

They would be 2015’s: Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes.

How their kids would turn out: leaders of an organically-nourished master race able to suck donations from your bank account with powerful psychic rays. Taller than you because their lawyers have sued your legs away below the knees.

They would be 2015’s: if you asked them, they’d say John F and Jackie Kennedy, but more likely to be Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall.

Well, I have a heart, and it bleeds for them.

I simply cannot bear to live in a world where a lonely Justin Bieber cries himself to sleep, and so have taken matters into my own hands to nominate a short list of perfect celebrity unions. Perhaps a copy of this magazine will find its way to cupid, the arrows of desire will fly and romance will blossom for these lonely A-listers? If true love fails, there’s at least the chance of some pretty steamy sex tapes the next time the North Korean hackers strike.

How their kids would turn out: wild-haired, ambitious, like a firework.

MY NAME IS ...

CULTURE

WINNER

MY NAME IS...

Why they would be perfect for each other: Scientology either confuses or bores mentally competent people, but Gwyneth has years of practice in remaining conscious during Coldplay’s gigs. There’s a distinct possibility that one or both of them was replaced with an android some time in the 1990s and the public haven’t noticed.

Why they would be perfect for each other: Could share funny stories about grand public entrances gone wrong, wardrobe malfunctions and comedy gaffes. Both like a drink or ten, appearing in front of crowds and bonking a lot.

It’s February, and Valentine’s day is approaching fast. If anything, it’s approaching too fast, and needs to pause, take a deep breath and concentrate on something less sexy, like the mental image of its grandmother tenderising a pork chop.

For lovers Feb 14th promises 24 hours of unbridled passion, but not everybody is lucky enough to come home from work to 13 red roses and a spanking. I’m going to ask you to take a moment out from compiling an R Kelly playlist and ordering furry handcuffs off the internet to think of those people less fortunate than yourselves. I don’t mean people suffering through disease or civil war, but the true forgotten victims of Saint Valentine: single celebrities.

BORIS JOHNSON & KATY PERRY Why haven’t they found love? Boris is often accused of being a serial philanderer who succeeds in life through charm and guile rather than commitment or consistency. Katy Perry was married briefly to Russell Brand, who is nothing like Boris whatsoever - because Boris has his own money and can speak latin.

CULTURE

View all entries at www.gallery.co.im. Deadline for the March entries is the 20th February

of photographic equipment every month in 2015

Hazel Walsh MY JOB IS…

Ryan Woodsworth Age 7 Peel Castle Sunset

Alexander Age 16

Alternative portrait photographer THE BEST JOB IN THE WORLD WOULD BE… Taking the photos I love all day long.

MY WORST HABIT IS… Sleeping too much.

IF I COULD CHANGE ONE THING IN MY LIFE IT WOULD BE… My finances.

IF I HAD TO ONLY EAT ONE KIND OF FOOD FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE IT WOULD BE… Steak.

for charity calendar

THIS IS A BIT MORE ABOUT MYSELF: As well as boudoir, pin-up, goth, steam punk and various other styles of photography I am a mixed media artist focussed on themes of death and decay and a burlesque dancer.

IF I COULD BE A CELEBRITY FOR A DAY, IT WOULD BE… Tim Burton.

RUSSELL BRAND & KATIE PRICE

Why they would be perfect for each other: Both are loud, narcissistic selfpublicists with big hair and a love-hate relationship with tabloid newspapers. A mutual history of nudity, partying and an extravagant ‘dream wedding’ that quickly ended in tears. Although both are successful authors, Katie has read fewer books than she has written and is unlikely to step on hubby’s toes in that respect. Based on his previous relationships, Brand should hopefully manage to remember her name and won’t need to get new initials engraved on his wedding band.

MILEY CYRUS & JUSTIN BIEBER Why haven’t they found love? Bred in vats on Disney’s facility for new child stars, neither was raised to comprehend basic human morality before being gifted with fantastic wealth and a pet monkey. Each is a modern-day Frankenstein’s monster: horrifying, made of spare parts, but desperate only to be loved.

THE 3 MOST IMPORTANT THINGS IN LIFE ARE… Loved ones, happiness, travel.

Need advice on how to take a quality photo on your iphone? Want to know how to take a high res photo?

How to enter

They would be 2015’s: somewhere between Bonnie and Clyde, Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown or The Krankies.

Open to anyone aged 18 or under.

Email your photographs by the 15th of each month to calendarcomp@gallery.co.im Photographs will be displayed monthly in Gallery Magazine during 2015.

Photographs must be HIGH RES, 300DPI AND AT LEAST 4MB IN SIZE.

How their kids would turn out: too frightening to contemplate, although hope exists that Disney deliberately engineered this strain as sterile, like the replicants from Blade Runner.

How their kids would turn out: of a mucus-encrusted egg, and then bursting out of your chest cavity. Nuke the site from orbit, it’s the only way to be sure.

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For more information about the Society for the Preservation of the Manx Countryside & Environment (Charity No. 391) and to join, email: manxfaragher@yahoo.com or phone: John on 07624 417119.

There is also a facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/iomspmce

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Woodlands House, Lower Foxdale

SU

BJ

APPETITE

PANCAKE DAY

SO

EC

T

£695,000

TO

CO

110g (4oz) plain flour

17 FEBRUARY 2015

CT

Shrove Tuesday, commonly known as Pancake Tuesday. It is a time for people to eat pancakes or participate in pancake races. Pancakes do have have some variations. For example, Welshcakes or light cakes are eaten in Wales while many pancakes in Gloucester are made with suet.

WHAT ARE PANCAKES? Pancakes are the very old beginnings of bread and pastry. Generally a pancake is any kind of batter, fried or baked in a skillet, on a griddle, or on any hot surface. The peoples of all nationalities have

275ml (10floz) full fat milk

made pancakes from time immemorial. Pancakes are ancient food.

The word pancakes appears in print as early as 1430. Pancakes may have been around since Neolithic humans domesticated einkorn wheat, ground it into flour mixed with bird’s egg and goat’s milk and poured the batter on a heated rock.

1 large egg

Well presented, spacious townhouse in convenient location Spacious Living and Dining Room, modern Kitchen Diner Master Bedroom with Dressing Area and En Suite 4 further Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, WC, Laundry Room Paved rear yard, uPVC double glazing, OFCH Excellent order throughout

• • • • • •

Outstanding family home in popular residential location 3 Receptions, Study, Kitchen, Snug, Utility 4 Bedrooms, En Suite, walk-in wardrobe & Shower Room Guest Annexe with Wash Room Well-kept gardens, double Garage, OFCH uPVC double glazing

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• • • • •

Integral Studio and Workshop providing potential for 2 integral Garages with up and over doors still in place and Utility On the first floor there are 3 double Bedrooms, 2 benefitting from En Suite facilities along and Family Shower Room On the second floor there are 2 further double Bedrooms and Family Bathroom Efficient oil fired central heating system is installed together with double glazing An internal inspection is highly recommended in order to appreciate this fine property

1 large egg yolk

150g pack sliced pancetta 4 tbsp Lyle’s Golden Syrup®

2 tbsp Tate & Lyle® Caster Sugar

coarsely ground black pepper

Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a non-stick frying pan until crisp and golden. Drain on kitchen paper.

Heat a little oil in a separate frying pan. Carefully drop large spoonfuls of the pancake mixture into the hot frying pan and cook for 2 minutes until crisp and golden.

300ml (½pt) milk

25g (1oz) dark chocolate

Oil for frying

Crème fraîche (optional)

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

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Extra melted butter or vegetable oil for frying

01624 845696

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Peel and slice the pears into eighths. Melt the butter in a large frying pan and heat until bubbling. Tip in the pears and fry until browned, turning every now and then. When brown drizzle over Lyle’s Golden Syrup and heat until bubbling. Melt the chocolate and serve the pancakes filled with the pears and drizzled with the chocolate. Delicious served with crème fraîche for extra indulgence!

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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100g chocolate chips, white, milk or dark chocolate 3 tbsp double cream Lyles Squeezy Syrup Chocolate

Sift the flour and cocoa into a large bowl, and make a hallow in the centre. Whisk the milk and eggs together then gradually into the centre, whisking as you pour, continue whisking until you have a smooth batter, then whisk in the melted butter. Alternatively put all the ingredients into a food processor or blender and whizz until smooth.

Cook for about 1 minute or until the liquid batter has set and the pancake is golden. Loosen the edges of the pancake with a spatula and give a little shake – it should come loose and move in the pan. Either flip the pancake or turn it over using a fish slice, then cook for a further minute. Continue to cook the rest of the batter in the same way.

Heat the oven to 190C/170Cfan/gas 5.

To make the filling, mix together the ricotta, Tate & Lyle caster sugar, chocolate drops and cream. Spread the filling over half of each pancake then fold into quarters, arrange in a greased ovenproof dish.

Cook in oven for 8-10 minutes. Serve the pancakes with plenty of Lyle’s Squeezy Syrup Chocolate

I had been attempting to do a joint demonstration with my friend and fellow equestrian Jo Howie for a while. But after trying to get our schedules together for the best part of 2014, we finally had a slot on the 6 December. Jo runs her own Equine Therapy business and is trained & qualified in equine sports massage, soft tissue mobilisation, stretching, cross fibre techniques and direct pressure techniques.

jumping would add additional spectacle to proceedings. The idea was to convey some of the science and mechanics but with a rider’s perspective in terms of feel and how to go about warming up and practically exercising key muscles for jumping.

As part of her work Jo demonstrates how a horse’s anatomy functions, and she does this by painting the muscles and skeleton on to the horse. The result is a hugely impressive sight.

With horses playing such a big part in our lives, we imagined how things might have been different if we hadn’t had the opportunity to be around them from an early age; something that we both found difficult. So to be a child suffering with a serious illness, one that prevents them from having the chance to realise their dreams is just heart-breaking, and that’s why the work of Wish upon a Dream is so important. To be able to give a seriously ill child the chance to realise their dreams means so much.

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With my background as a rider and qualified coach, we felt that being able to paint up a horse and then do some show

The months recipes were all made using Lyle’s Golden Syrup.

For more Lyle’s Golden Syrup pancake recipes, you can visit www.lylesgoldensyrup.com/recipes/ BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

With my background as a rider and ualifie coac e elt t at eing able to paint up a horse and then o so e s o u ping oul a additional spectacle to proceedings

WORDS | Hannah Goodby

IN THE RUN UP TO CHRISTMAS, DESPITE THE HECTIC PRESENT SHOPPING, I TOOK SOME TIME OUT TO GIVE SOMETHING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY.

To cook the pancakes, use a non-stick 18cm/7inch pan for best results. Heat the pan on medium heat until there is a slight haze coming from it. Brush the pan with butter or oil then pour in abut 70ml of batter, use a small ladle if available. Tilt the pan so the batter evenly covers the bottom of the pan.

Heat half a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick frying pan and pour a ladleful of the batter into the pan, swirling for a thin layer. Cook on a moderate heat until the edges turn brown. Gently loosen the edges with a spatula and then flip the pancake. Cook for 30 seconds and then turn out onto a plate. Repeat to make 8 pancakes, placing a small piece of parchment between each pancake. Keep warm.

9 Athol Street, Peel, Isle of Man, IM5 1HE

250g carton ricotta cheese 3 tbsp Tate & Lyle Fairtrade Caster Sugar

300ml full fat milk 2 large eggs

Place the flour, salt and eggs into a bowl with a dash of the milk.

Beat with whisk until you have a smooth paste. Gradually add the milk, beating all the time to avoid lumps. Leave to stand for five minutes to thicken slightly.

Spacious detached house in highly sought after location Large plot with easily managed gardens & extensive parking Hall, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Conservatory Breakfast Room, Study, Utility, Store & Games Room Master Bedroom with Dressing Room & En Suite 3 further Bedrooms with 2 En Suites, Integral Garage

115g plain flour 1 tbsp cocoa powder

25g butter, melted

2 large pears Large knob of butter 3tbsp Lyle’s Golden Syrup

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Prep time: 15 minutes • Cooking time: 30-35 minutes

PANCAKES WITH CARAMELISED PEAR AND CHOCOLATE AND A DROP OF LYLE’S GOLDEN SYRUP Serves 4 • Prep time: 15 minutes • Cooking time: 15 minutes Pinch salt

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CHOCOLATE PANCAKES WITH CHEESECAKE FILLING Makes 8-12

TIP: Pancetta is a smoked, streaky Italian bacon usually available sliced wafer-thin or roughly diced. If you can¹t get hold of it, use regular smoked streaky bacon.

2 eggs

1 lemon, cut into 8 wedges, optional

HAPPY NEW YEAR, I HOPE YOU ALL HAD A LOVELY CHRISTMAS. FOR MY FIRST ARTICLE OF 2015 WE’RE GOING TO DO A LITTLE TIME TRAVELLING, BUT ONLY BACK TO THE START OF DECEMBER.

DO AHEAD: To make ahead of time stack the pancakes between small squares of parchment paper as you make them and leave to cool. Reheat briefly in a non-stick pan set over a moderate heat for a few seconds.

Slide the pancakes onto serving plates and top with the bacon.

Drizzle over the golden syrup, sprinkle with pepper and serve.

£1,250,000

• • • • • •

SPORT

ALL THINGS EQUESTRIAN

Lyle’s Golden Syrup, to serve

Fold the pancakes loosely onto a plate, drizzle with Lyle’s Golden Syrup and serve with lemon wedges if desired. Continue to cook the rest of the pancakes in the same way.

1/2 tsp salt

100g (3½oz) plain flour

Outstanding detached house set in private mature grounds Replacement Kitchen, Bathrooms & Everest uPVC double glazing W.C., 3 Receptions, Study, Kitchen, Utility, Master with En Suite Guest Room with Dressing Room & En Suite 2 further Bedrooms and Family Bathroom, OFCH 1 acre of lawns, orchard, Greenhouse & Summerhouse

SPORT

1 tbsp vegetable oil, plus extra for frying

Cook for about 20-30 seconds or until the liquid batter has set and the pancake is golden brown. Loosen the edges of the pancake with a palette knife, give the pan a little shake to loosen it and either flip the pancake or turn it over with the palette knife, then cook for a further 20 seconds.

vegetable oil, for shallow frying

5 - 7 tbsp milk 150g/5oz self-raising flour

Whisk together the eggs and milk. Place the flour, sugar and salt in large bowl, make a well in the centre, pour in the liquid and mix beat with wooden spoon to make a smooth, thick batter. Set aside for 5 minutes.

5 Manor Park, Onchan

Cobblers Goose, Switchback Road

£895,000

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BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

To cook the pancakes, use a non-stick 18cm (7”) pan for best results. Put the pan on a medium high heat until there is a slight haze coming from it. Trickle in a little oil then pour in about 2 tablespoons of batter, quickly tilting the pan so the batter evenly coats the bottom of the pan.

Perhaps because of this ancient lineage, pancakes are associated with rituals in many countries – Shrove Tuesday, Candlemas, and Chanukah to name a few.

2 eggs

Period detached residence dating back to 1906 providing characterful and spacious family accommodation arranged over 4 floors Situated in a convenient village location which provides easy access to the south, west and east of the Island Sympathetically restored and extended by the present owners and offered for sale in first class decorative order throughout Stunning 28’ Dining Kitchen, Dining Room, spacious 23’ Lounge with staircase down to the lower ground floor Family Room & Cloakroom

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Put the flour in a mixing bowl and make a well in the centre. Put the milk, whole egg, egg yolk and oil in a jug and lightly beat together with a small whisk. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the well, whisking as you pour, and drawing in the flour very gradually until you have a smooth batter. Transfer back into the jug. Alternatively, put all the ingredients into a food processor and whiz until smooth.

It happened before there were pans and long before ovens. The ancient cooks dropped a little gruel on a hot rock of campfire, resulting in thin cakes that were tastier than plain gruel or cakes cooked directly in the embers of the fire.

BREAKFAST PANCAKES WITH CRISPY BACON Serves 2

•

Firefly

ARTIST AND ILLUSTRATORS - would you like to see your work featured in Gallery Magazine?

Simply get in contact with us mynameis@gallery.co.im

LYLE’S CLASSIC PANCAKES Makes about 15 • Prep time: 5 minutes • Cooking time: 20 minutes

Shrove Tuesday

RA

5 Harcroft Road, Saddlestone, Douglas

•

Peel Castle Opposite - monster inside exstreme

RECIPES

LD

NT

£525,000

•

house . . .

38 38

Local properties at your fingertips www.blackgracecowley.com 10 Crosby Terrace, Douglas

£280,000

01624 645555

Sam Bucknall Age 16

APPETITE

• • • •

23/01/2015 16:44

10 Crosby Terrace, Douglas 5 Harcroft Road, Saddlestone, Douglas Cobblers Goose, Switchback Road, Peel 5 Manor Park, Onchan

• •

WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR 2015… Diet, exercise, travel, take more photos and learn to play the trumpet.

My dream

Go to: www.gallery.co.im

For full details go to: www.gallery.co.im/young-photographers-wanted

feature_two-a.indd All Pages

• • • • • •

THE BEST ADVICE I’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN IS… ‘Dont worry, be happy’.

IF I COULD HAVE ONE QUESTION ANSWERED IN THE WORLD IT WOULD BE… Why???

Why they would be perfect for each other: no normal person could possibly understand somebody who had an entourage when most of us were lucky to have a Playmobil garage set, let alone a pet monkey.

They would be 2015’s: worst nightmare - a remorseless enemy that either destroys you by pouncing from air vents, or by constantly appearing as a talking head on TV programmes, breaking your will to live with its corrosive opinions.

How their kids would turn out: Born with a suntan and their own section in the Sun’s gossip column.

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KATIE HOPKINS & THE ALIEN Why haven’t they found love? Both are vicious, spiteful alpha predators incapable of empathy or weakness. Can only be truly stopped by being burned with a flamethrower and then ejected into the cold vacuum of space.

Why they would be perfect for each other: both have blood of acid and wallpaper their nests with the still-living bodies of their prey. The Alien could teach Katie the novel concept that sometimes your goals can be accomplished by simply keeping quiet for a few minutes, and Katie could show The Alien how to sow terror through the medium of Twitter.

They would be 2015’s: Kim Kardashian (buxom, wealthy, slightly dim, reality/sex tape star) and Kanye West (egocentric, jewellery, messiah complex).

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THE BEST TIME OF YEAR IS… Winter, but only if there’s snow!

Krysia Fitzpatrick Age 16

Why haven’t they found love? In the time taken for this issue to go to print the lovely Ms Price has probably fallen head-over-spike-heels in love, popped out another two children, fallen out with the father and is at this moment composing a withering all-caps tweet about the size of his Peter Andre. Russell Brand is finding it hard to juggle a new career (speaking out against wealth, soundbites and celebrity) with a crippling addiction to these very same things. Ooh, Mr Winkie!

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Naturally #wonderhorse, otherwise known as Monty’s Star, was thrilled at the prospect of performing in front of an audience and showing off his physique!

We decided early on that we really wanted to try and give something back to the Island, and this was especially true given the time of year. So that’s why we partnered with charity “Wish upon a Dream”. Speaking to Lesley Turnbull (founder) about the idea, we knew it was the right fit for us.

CM

Rule Equestrian centre and enjoyed the mulled wine, hot pasty and mince pies donated by Ramsey Bakery.

Lots of other local businesses kindly donated some fantastic raffle prizes and although I can’t name them all here, details of each are on my Facebook page.

Overall we managed to raise £300 for Wish upon a Dream, and we loved every minute, so much so we can’t wait to do the next one!

MY

RIGHT, I’M OFF TO RIDE MONTY AND SHED SOME CHRISTMAS POUNDS, SO UNTIL THE NEXT HORSEY FIX, PLEASE ENJOY THE EVENT PHOTOS COURTESY OF CJS PHOTOGRAPHY (CALLUM STALEY).

After much organisation, drafting in friends and family, the demo was a great success.

Despite it being a cold, wet and windy Saturday night, many of you came along to Mount

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BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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CMY

UPFRONT Edito..............................................................................................................................................3 Diamonds at 76......................................................................................................4 New Year Resolutions................................................................8 What’s On..................................................................................................10 Give...........................................................................................................................................12 News in Numbers...........................................................................13 NEW Dental Practise.............................................................................14 Tom & Lorna Richards Wedding Day...................16 Current Affairs...................................................................................18 Me & My Pet...........................................................................................20 Roam-eo & Juliet............................................................................22 Celebrity Breeding......................................................................24 Internet Dating.................................................................................28 Fifty Shades of Friggin Red.........................................29 MISC.................................................................................................................30 EVENTS Canaccord..................................................................................................................32 Counting House..........................................................................................................33 Douglas Rugby Club Lunch....................................................34 CULTURE Culture News.....................................................................................................36 My Name Is - Hazel Walsh.........................................................38 Young Photographers Comp..........................................40 Culture Vulture..............................................................................................42 Monthly Upload............................................................................................44 IOMPS Exhibition...................................................................................46 Burlesques Naughty & Nice..............................................48

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FASHION & BEAUTY Fashion Trends.................................................................................50 Charity Photoshoot.............................................................................52 GGCP..............................................................................................................58 SS15....................................................................................................................60 Makeup Artistry.......................................................................................62 Ladies by ron smith................................................................64 Valentine Gifts.................................................................................66

PAPARAZZI Artisan..........................................................................................................................110 Bordello.......................................................................................................................111 The Courthouse............................................................................................112 Vagabonds.............................................................................................................114 The Outback........................................................................................................116

Isle of Man | Home & Interiors | February 2015

APPETITE Pancake Day Recipes......................................................................68 Wine Talk...................................................................................................................70 TRAVEL Antarctica..................................................................................................................72 BUSINESS Business News.................................................................................................96 Movers & Shakers....................................................................................100 ACTIVE All Things Equestrian.....................................................................102 IOM Cyclefest................................................................................................104

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

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

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HARDWARE Gadgets......................................................................................................................106 Phone Home..................................................................................................108

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Vicky

Nic

fed up of the norm?

want to wake up actually excited about your job for once? then make your move, we re ’ ready… accounting & finance

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expertise and precision, here at plan.com we’re all about attention to detail, are you?

we’re looking for creative and strategic thinkers, with the passion and drive to get things done

be on the front line of our constant charge towards innovative, technology based solutions

Like what you see? Our HR manager, Nicola is waiting for your CV today nicolapatterson@plan.com or visit plan.com/careers for details.

FEATURE

WORDS Grant Runyon ILLUSTRATION Sarah Gabison

HANDS UP IF YOU MADE ANY NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS. KEEP THEM UP IF YOU HAVEN’T BROKEN THEM YET, BECAUSE YOU’RE CLEARLY A STRONGER MAN THAN ME AND ALL I PROMISED WAS THAT I WASN’T GOING TO PASS OUT ON THE TOILET AGAIN WITH A CHOCOLATE ORANGE MELTING IN THE POCKET OF MY DRESSING GOWN.

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FEATURE

It’s said that “the road to hell is paved with good intentions” - never is this more depressingly true than midway through the month of February. It’s easy to commit to the idea of a punishing diet when you’re collapsed on the couch on December 27th, worrying about whether death by gout will take you down before dad has to use his new power washer to break up a solid mass of mince pie blocking your colon. It’s nothing to swear off the drink on January 2nd, when it feels like somebody has been dragging your liver behind a truck, but the idea becomes less attractive the longer you’ve been back at work. Your liver still looks like an Eastenders villain, but you need the prospect of sweet boozy oblivion to prevent you from throttling your boss with a length of network cable. Don’t even get me started on the gym, which seems like a good idea until you realise that the

You promised on January 1st: never to smoke cigarettes again.

Progress in the last month: four smokeless days climbing the walls, barking at family members like a Rottweiler with toothache and enduring vivid hallucinations of 20 Benson crawling across the ceiling like the baby from Trainspotting. Broke down one afternoon, found yourself eating handfuls of nicotine gum and hunting a dirty contact buzz by sucking in the fetid smog that hovers around pub ashtrays.

A more realistic target: aim to switch to an e-cigarette. Either get the supermarket kind, which smashes your addiction to nicotine by costing as much as a packet of fags but breaking after a few hours, or the fancy provaper model from the internet. It destroys the social pleasure of smoking by forcing people to avoid you in case they get another 40 minute lecture about why you went for a pineapple-sprout 12mg blend over one that tastes like bubblegum and causes brain damage in lab rats.

You promised on January 1st: to start that arts & crafts project you dreamed up as a way to prove that years of telly and lager haven’t killed off the creative spirit of your younger self.

Progress in the last month: bought a book on knitting/sewing/flower arranging from Amazon, registered accounts on Etsy and Pinterest and started telling people about all the cool stuff you’re going to make (them buy). Also purchased some bafflingly expensive craft materials and spent an hour unwrapping a single ball of wool.

A more realistic target: start with drawing moustaches on people in magazines, step up to colouring books and biro desk doodles after a week or two. Instead of upcycling a wedding dress and pricing it at £900 on Etsy, cut the sleeves off a few T shirts and make a puppet out of an old sock.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

combination of dreadful music and shirtless meatheads everywhere means that you’ve just paid £400 for a season ticket to the worst nightclub in Spain.

If you don’t want to spend the rest of 2015 feeling like an abject failure, I recommend that you give yourself a do-over and reset your resolutions to something a touch more manageable. Think of it as an investment in your self-confidence. If you can get through 2015 without drinking snakebite every lunchtime or having a bacon heart attack you might stand a better chance of making 2016 your year as a teetotal vegan with more muscles than the rugby club shower.

You promised on January 1st: to read Moby Dick, War and Peace or some other cultural doorstop with more intellectual cred than the Dan Brown novels and TV listings magazines that are your only regular contact with the written word.

Progress in the last month: you bought at least one novel, read five pages before falling asleep and this article is the only thing you’ve read since that isn’t the instructions on a packet of Super Noodles.

A more realistic target: the secret is that nobody really reads War and Peace because it’s impossible to remember everybody’s names. Moby Dick is available as a pretty decent audiobook, and it’s easy to remember the characters because one has a peg leg and another is a whale.

You promised on January 1st: to begin a raw-food, paleo, red carpet detox or some other pseudo-diet made up by Californian hippy con artists.

Progress in the last month: three days of forcing down kale, two moderately satisfying dinners of poached chicken and a lot of sliced carrots. Followed by a weekend of wholemeal pasta without parmesan (salted with your tears) before erupting in grease-starved fury on Monday lunchtime.

You ate two Big Macs with extra bacon and a milkshake that you bribed the staff to beef up with runoff from one of the fryers.

A more realistic target: don’t fry food at home, drastically cut down on ready meals and save money by eating a lot of vegetables. If you buy an exercise bike, and work out exactly how many miles you have to cycle to burn off a single Twix, you’ll see them for the evil caramel-laced bastards they truly are.

You promised on January 1st: to do something vaguely unusual, arduous and probably embarrassing for charity.

Progress in the last month: told everybody at work, registered an annoying website to guilt people into giving you cash and vaguely thought about going for a run to get in shape. The sense of smug selfsatisfaction lead you to reward yourself with an 800 calorie bacon sandwich.

A more realistic target: either reschedule your event to take advantage of some wacky corporate charity month later in the year (“Bono-ctober”), or start forging the evidence of your naked run across the Kalahari by going to the sand dunes, sucking in your gut for the camera and borrowing a nativity play donkey to add in some convincing local colour.

You promised on January 1st: to go to the gym every day, because that’s the only way you’ll get value from the ‘premium’ gym membership, £90 gym shoes and the impulse purchase of a dustbin full of protein powder.

Progress in the last month: an induction session followed by 20 minutes on a cross trainer. A 30 minute weights workout the next day, then four days feeling like you’ve been interrogated by the CIA. You’ve realised that protein powder tastes like ice cream with sand in it, and that you never want to hear ‘Rhythm Is A Dancer’ again as long as you live.

A more realistic target: get healthier by osmosis by forcing yourself to go to the gym every day, but leaving it optional as to whether you actually do any exercise. Either you get guilted into working out just to pass the time, or the long hours you spend drinking dubious XXTREME energy drinks and watching Sky News in the recovery room will lead somebody to offer you weightlifting tips, a bespoke action plan for that vibrating toilet chair thing, or possibly just some discount steroids.

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UPFRONT

WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON

FEBRUARY 2015

LIVE SCREENING AND ENCORE EVENTS

04.02.2015

ANDREA CHENIER * //STUDIO THEATRE, BALLAKERMEEN// An as-live screening from the Royal Opera House of Umberto Giordano’s greatest opera which presents a fictionalised account of the last years of the French poet Andrea Chénier, guillotined during the Reign of Terror in 1794.

11.02.2015

24.02.2015

LOVE’S LABOURS LOST *

//STUDIO THEATRE, BALLAKERMEEN//

//STUDIO THEATRE, BALLAKERMEEN//

Live screening from the Royal Opera House. Wagner’s first masterpiece explores the themes of damnation and redemption that would fascinate the composer throughout his career.

Encore screening of Shakespeare’s popular comedy from the RSC, Stratford upon Avon.

DER FLIEGENDE HOLLANDER *

Tickets for all live screening events at The Studio Theatre, Ballakermeen, are available online from www.villagaiety.com or by phoning the Box Office on 01624 600555. Concessions available.

*Supported by the Isle of Man Arts Council and Island of Culture 2014.

OTHER EVENTS

01.02.2015

WEDDING FAIR //SEFTON HOTEL, DOUGLAS// An opportunity to meet local suppliers to help plan your perfect wedding.

Free admission. www.seftongroup.co.im

03.02.2015 – 10.03.2015 LIGHT COURSE OF PHOTOGRAPHY

//SAYLE GALLERY, DOUGLAS// A course approaching photography from an artistic angle (how we see things) and introducing techniques that will give you more control over your the images you produce. Open to everyone, beginners to experts, encouraging experimentation and new perspectives using all type of cameras including mobiles and tablets.

Every Tuesday evening, £60 for six weeks (discounts for students and subscribed Sayle Gallery supporters). www.sayle.gallery

07.02.2015 – 20.02.2015 SISTER ACT

//GAIETY THEATRE, DOUGLAS// Douglas Choral Union present this fun and lively musical about a nun on the run, directed and choreographed by West End director Tara Wilkinson and is co-directed

by Mark Hilton with musical direction by Andrew Hilton. What’s not to like about a chorus line of jiving, singing nuns?

Sponsored by Dougherty Quinn and in association with Manx Radio. www.villagaiety.com t: (01624) 600555

19 – 21.02.2015

28.02.2015

ONE ACT FESTIVAL OF PLAYS

THE NEXT BIG THING 2015

//ERIN ARTS CENTRE, PORT ERIN//

//GAIETY THEATRE, DOUGLAS//

Manx Amateur Drama Federation Annual Festival Variety of performances by adult and youth amateur dramatic groups from the Isle of Man and UK.

Fantastic family entertainment featuring young performers from around the Island and brought to the stage by Junior Achievement Isle of Man.

A range of genres from comedy to psychological drama, including known works and new unpublished plays.

Starts: Nightly 7.00pm.

Tickets from £10.20 from www.villagaiety.com t: (01624) 600555

www.erinartscentre.com

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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UPFRONT

GIVE BECOME A FRIEND OF THE CHILDREN’S CENTRE If you want to support The Children’s Centre you can become a ‘friend’ of the charity from just £1 a month. Choose from £1, £3 and £5 donations per month – or as much as you like – and help fund vital projects and services, many of which rely on public donations.

For just £5 or more, you’ll be eligible to take part in the charity’s monthly draw and be in with a chance of winning £100, £50 or £25 every month!

FREEMASONS HAVE NOW DONATED MORE THAN £11 MILLION TO HOSPICES Two hundred and forty-two hospices across England, Wales, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands are currently receiving grants from The Freemasons’ Grand Charity totalling £600,000. Since 1984, the Charity has now donated more than £11 million in support of hospices.

As well as many personal donations throughout the year from Freemasons and their families, Hospice Isle of Man representatives have received a cheque in the sum of £3,304 from the Charity.

Speaking about the donation, the Provincial Grand Master for the Isle of Man, Keith Dalrymple, said “Freemasons in the Isle of Man are thrilled that The Freemasons’ Grand Charity has continued to provide this vital funding for our local hospice. The care, compassion and support they provide to the community is outstanding and we are delighted that we are able to show our continuing dedication to their cause.”

Susie Cox, Community Fundraiser at The Children’s Centre, said: “Friends Membership is a great way to support our work, and every penny of your monthly donation will go directly towards our charitable projects and services. You’ll receive information throughout the year about The Children’s Centre and any events that might interest you. To become a Friend, simply fill in the direct debit form available on our website – for as little as £5 a month, you could win up to £100!”

To become a Friend just go to: www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/ support-our-work/friends-of-thechildrens-centre.

Alternatively you can contact the Centre’s fundraising team by emailing: susiecox@thechildrenscentre.org.im or by calling: 676076.

MANX CANCER HELP THANKS CITYWING FOR 2014 NOMINATED CHARITY SUPPORT NEW KIT FOR LAXEY UNDER 16’s THANKS TO HERITAGE HOMES Players from Laxey Football Club’s under-16 Miners team are not only celebrating winning all seven of their junior league games this season, but are also proudly sporting a new kit courtesy of Heritage Homes. The local company, which is part of the Dandara Group, has continued its long-running support for the club by providing them with their 2014-15 season strip.

Coach David Wilkinson, who has been involved in junior coaching for almost a decade, said “The team are very proud of their new kit and are very appreciative of the support. It is brilliant that companies like Heritage Homes are able to support teams such as ours.”

Now half way through the season, the Miners top the under-16 A League table with 21 points, with cup games and league matches still to play through until next May.

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Manx Cancer Help is thanking Citywing for its help throughout 2014, after the company nominated the organisation as its charity of the year.

Ally Martin, Fundraising Events Coordinator at Manx Cancer Help, said: ‘Citywing gave our fundraising a much needed boost by choosing us as its nominated charity for 2014.

‘The generous donation of 24 return tickets for us to use for fundraising was a fantastic help and the Plane Pull held in July was hugely successful, with the amount raised being matched pound for pound by Barclays, and offered a fun way for people to get involved with helping a local charity.

‘Being Citywing’s charity of the year has given us a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of the services we provide at Manx Cancer Help to help and support anyone affected by cancer. It has been a pleasure to work with the team at Citywing, and we cannot thank them enough for their support throughout the year.’ www.citywing.com

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

NEWS

21 Following a recent spate of burglaries, (24 burglaries and attempted burglaries in January) Isle of Man Crimestoppers is urging anyone with information about the perpetrators of these incidents to call its confidential hotline 0800 555 111.

Crimestoppers provides a way for all members of the community to pass on information about crime anonymously, either via the hotline or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

in

NUMBERS

1000 Some of the island’s most precious Viking treasures are to take pride of place in a major international exhibition. Exhibits have been lent from the British Museum, the national museums of Ireland and Denmark as well as Manx National Heritage. These archaeological finds, which are over 1,000 years old, include weaponry, jewellery, household implements, slave chains and coins that show the global reach of the Vikings, their ships and culture.

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The ManxSPCA supports the move to consider the introduction of animal welfare legislation. The ManxSPCA last year received a higher percentage of calls than in previous years. One hundred and eightyseven cases of animal neglect, cruelty or distress were investigated in 2014 compared to 159 in 2013.

The Jurby jail use to generate 12 large wheelie bins of rubbish a week.

Now that’s down to 10 bins a fortnight.

About 2,400kg (5,280lb) of waste is recycled each month, generating a saving of £5,000 a year.

374

195 The number of Police officers in the Manx police force have been reduced from 248 officers at peak to 195.

Protecting the Island from coastal flooding has been costed at £31.8m.

That works out at about £374 per person in the island. Fingers crossed we won’t have to canoe our way to work anytime soon!

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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UPFRONT

introducing an exciting new dental experience in the heart of Douglas.

1DENTAL CLINIC IS LOCATED AT 1 GRANVILLE STREET, OPPOSITE THE STRAND CENTRE, AND WAS FORMALLY THE COSMETIC BEAUTY CLINIC ‘FIFTH AVENUE’. THE BUILDING WAS BUILT IN THE EARLY 1900’S AND HAS UNDERGONE AN EXTENSIVE PROGRAM OF REFURBISHMENT AND MODERNISATION.

NICK MAYBIN

Nick originally hails from Northern Ireland having grown up in County Down. He left in 2004 to study dentistry in Newcastle upon Tyne and graduated in 2009 with Merit in clinical dentistry.

Nick worked in the North East until early 2013 when he took a skiing based sabbatical in the French Alps with his partner Natalie. He has a passion for the mountains whether it be skiing or trekking, previously he travelled to the Himalayas as part of a healthcare charity team to provide basic and essential healthcare to the otherwise isolated high altitude villages.

Dentists Nick and Natalie Maybin are looking forward to meeting and treating dental patients from March 2015. 1Dental Clinic has a comfortable and welcoming reception area to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee on arrival and 2 custom built dental surgeries.

Lindsay Waterfall, 1Dental Clinic’s senior dental nurse, will be on hand from early February to start booking appointments for you.

Hailing from Ramsey, Lindsay has been a qualified dental nurse for over 10 years and is now looking forward to providing excellent dental care to everyone.

1Dental Clinic is able to provide a comprehensive range of high quality, general and cosmetic dentistry.

Treatments such as: tooth whitening and smile make-over’s removal.

Its central location will make 1Dental Clinic ideal for anyone who would like a new dentist, has a dental emergency or would just like whiter teeth.

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Since returning from France in spring 2013 he worked in practice back in Northern Ireland where he enjoyed all aspects of general dentistry. Nick particularly enjoys aesthetic dentistry, endodontics and helping patients to manage periodontal problems.

Nick’s partner Natalie is Manx, she grew up in Douglas and is also a dentist. They recently married on the Island in typical tropical Manx conditions. When presented with an opportunity to return and settle in the Isle of Man they both jumped at it as they love the environment it offers. Nick is a keen cyclist, golfer and tennis player. He has sailed competitively at national and international level having been an Irish National and Ulster Champion. He sees the Island as an ideal place to work and conveniently be able to pursue his sporting interests. If you have a dental problem, if you need a competent crew member or even if you just fancy 18 holes, let him know and he’ll be happy to help.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

Natalie was born on the Island and grew up in Douglas. She has fond memories of an active childhood, notably being a part of Christine Wild Theatre School and Manx Harriers Athletics Club at the NSC. She attended Ballakermeen High School, taking all the sciences at A-level and did Saturday and part-time work at both The Isle of Man Creameries and The Royal Bank of Scotland International.

Natalie attended The University of Newcastle upon Tyne to study Medical Microbiology. Whilst at Newcastle she was in the cross country club and took part in the Great North Run a few times, raising money for the British Heart Foundation.

After gaining her honours degree, Natalie then pursued her dental qualifications at The University of Liverpool.

Following graduation, Natalie returned to the North East to work in general practice and it was during this time that she met Nick. Natalie lived and worked in the area for nearly three years before Nick persuaded her to ‘opt out of life’ for a while and follow him to France for a ski sabbatical. Following this they moved to Northern Ireland and Natalie continued to work in general practice where she has

always enjoyed aesthetic dentistry, denture work and helping nervous patients.

Natalie is looking forward to a return to the Island where she NATALIE MAYBIN knows it will be easy to maintain her active lifestyle. Not one to sit still, cycling and walking keep her busy and she is considering tackling the Parish Walk again despite losing a toenail on a previous venture! Natalie has a creative streak and when the weather is not ideal she has been known to break out the needle, thread and crochet hook to make gifts and accessories for her home.

Natalie and Nick were married in Braddan last year. It was a perfect sunny day and many of the guests from the UK were impressed by the beauty of the Island, reminding Natalie of how special a place the Isle of Man is. She is excited to be returning home.

gives you Time Time to smile again Time to listen to your treatment needs Time to discuss your treatment options Time to complete your dental care

Welcoming new patients from March 2015 Call 623001 or pop in to book an appointment from early February 1Dental Clinic, 1 Granville Street, Douglas, IM1 2ES

www.1dentalclinic.com BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Telephone: 623001 info@1dentalclinic.com 15

UPFRONT

THE WEDDING OF

Tom & Lorna Richards

TOM AND LORNA RICHARDS WERE MARRIED AT 3PM ON SATURDAY 22ND NOVEMBER 2014 AT THE KING WILLIAM’S COLLEGE CHAPEL.

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The weather proved kind with a sunny, dry and still day. The candlelit ceremony was attended by 85 guests; a mixture of on and off island family and friends.

The wedding feast was followed by the cutting of the cake and Tom and Lorna’s first dance. Fantastic live music from Joey Wylde and the Divided Opinions brought the evening to a close.

Following the wedding service, a champagne and mulled wine reception was held at The Abbey Restaurant to the tuneful music of the 4tissimo string quartet and a splendid wedding feast of crab claws and beef wellington which was a credit to the restaurant’s fine chefs. After dinner and a number of warm and heart felt family speeches, the newly married couple and guests were treated to a highly humorous guitar and vocal serenade from Bob Dix, lead usher.

Shortly after the day, the newly weds jetted off for a fabulous two week honeymoon in Saint Lucia.

Tom is a Director at Thomas Miller Investment, and Lorna is Head of Gaming Development at SMP Partners. The couple would like to thank everyone who helped and attended for making it such a special day.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

PHOTOGRAPHS | Liam Gilman

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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UPFRONT

THE CURRENT AFFAIRS PANEL

CURRENT KING WILLIAM’S COLLEGE

W C A your chance to pose any number of questions to the Island’s business community.

What is the difference between A levels and the IB?

A levels require 16 year olds to choose three subjects. The IB requires six subjects plus three further challenging elements: the Theory of Knowledge Course, the Extended Essay and 150 hours of Community Action Service. IB students complete a 4000 word dissertation to university level standards. Similar opportunities exist in the A level system (the Extended Projects Qualification) but very few students choose to undertake this challenge.

MARTIN HUMPHREYS Principal King William’s College

ALEX MCNEE

Director Boston Limited

The IB has enjoyed rigorous and robust assessment criteria for 50 years, with no grade inflation. The A level system has suffered reputational damage for its widely recognised problem of grade inflation.

The IB is an independent organisation, free from political interference. The A level system is the subject of political meddling and ‘reform’.

The IB has a single examination board.

The A level system has a plethora of examination boards.

The IB Diploma is a better pre-university qualification. The IB is, broadly speaking, a linear course with exams at the end. A levels rely on modular exams, which reduce proper teaching time.

The IB programme is philosophically coherent and inter-connected. The A level system is a series of silos with little intellectual or philosophical connection.

ANDREW GERRAD

Director Harding Lewis Limited

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MARCO LEONETTI Owner, Utopia

The IB programme challenges students to continue with important subjects (their own language, a foreign language, Maths, Science a humanity subject etc.) The A level system allows students to retreat to their comfort zones even if this means a collection of soft subjects which will not ultimately benefit the student.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

AFFAIRS BOSTON GROUP

What is Corporate Social Responsibility?

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) aims to further social good beyond the interests of the firm. It can take many forms from environmental considerations to how employees are treated, supply chain considerations and benefiting the local community. A common approach to CSR is corporate philanthropy and includes charitable donations.

The benefits of CSR can include; increased staff engagement, becoming an employer of choice and improved business reputation. It can also generate positive publicity, increase customer retention and help to enhance relationships with clients.

As Boston stems from a family office, our heritage and the values of the family mean that CSR is at the core of what we do. The Boston Charitable Foundation was established specifically to donate funds to good causes and community projects.

Boston Group CEO Greg Ellison also sits as Chair of Junior Achievement, a local charity dedicated to helping the Island’s young people gain the essential employment skills needed to get a job or start their own business. The Boston Charitable Foundation has also provided financial support to the charity.

We feel strongly about CSR and the reason we get involved is not to be seen to be doing good but because we absolutely believe in supporting our community. From a staff perspective, it brings people closer together and creates purpose beyond our day to day jobs. In short, it does good and even if nobody saw it we would still do it.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

HARDING LEWIS

I heard local unemployment has dropped but the number of retired people has risen. Is this good or bad for the economy?

The simple answers would be yes and no (respectively), but there is more to it than this.

Lower unemployment is clearly beneficial, however to get an overall picture of people out of work we also need to know the cost of benefits being paid out not only to the unemployed but also those on long term sick and in work benefits. A healthy economy is one where people are in work and also self-sufficient. The problem is we are never told about the ‘other’ figures, only the unemployment figures. This is one of reasons why we need more transparency from government.

Concerning the number of retired people, it has been known for some time that population demographics are a cause for concern in in relation to the sustainability of the welfare state. This is one of the main reasons why many governments, including our own, are struggling to deal with their finances of today, and more importantly those of tomorrow where the numbers simply don’t add up. Jim Mellon, the local resident entrepreneur, recently predicted that people will live until they are 120 years old. This may be a wild prediction, but the increasing age of the population is there for everyone to see and the state retirement age is clearly not keeping pace. No one has yet come up with a viable answer which will also solve the government deficit issue. In the meantime, the financial problem grows by the day and history books of the future will not look kindly on recent times.

UTOPIA

A year on from the opening of your second salon, has it improved your bottom line?

When we decided to expand the business it was purely an operative move to allow us space to grow. Our pond was full and becoming stagnant and we needed an overflow where fresh ideas and energy could flow from. The decision wasn’t financially based. Sometimes “big” is not always beautiful, but space offers comfort, choice, and above all a relaxing experience.

Our new Walpole Avenue salon is a small satellite salon, beautiful and with a very boudoir feel to it. The new salon has attracted town centre office workers and as we offer corporate rates to several institutions it has been fun watching the business grow.

But we have had challenges. The road was closed for nearly 26 weeks, that in itself was messy. Clients avoided that area and turnover definitely dropped, but since June growth has been apparent and now, as we go into our second year of trading, we have established our salon as a centre of excellence. It may take another year of trading to really explore the financial benefits, but we are really happy with progress. As we hurtle into 2015, Giulio and his team are determined to focus on excellence, quality, and above all service.

Here’s to a happy, healthy new year!!

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

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acqueline Street & UPFRONT

ME & MY PET

Names: Jacqueline Street, with Junior, Max & Buddy

Human Questions: Breed: White Caucasian Age: 51 Likes: Gordon Setters (obviously), Ornithology & Natural History, Aviation & world travel, Horticulture & DIY, Photography, music and most sports. Spending quality time with my family & friends and of course living on the Isle of Man. Dislikes: People who put their own selfish needs before providing the appropriate care for their children and/or animals.

Benefit scroungers, contrived unfairness, poor hygiene & table manners.

If an animal what would you be: I’d rather be a bird such as a Hyacinth Macaw but if it has to be an animal then I think it would be a Ring Tailed Lemur.

Where do you live on the Island?

Near the South Barrule Plantation.

Where are you originally from? West Sussex.

What do you do for a living?

I’m responsible for the day to day management of the Milan Veterinary Branch Practice based in Castletown. will celebrate his 32nd birthday in July.

Would you have any more pets?

No, not whilst my current ‘family’ are alive. Although I am an animal lover, it is important not to be selfish ‘collecting’ animals, you need to consider can you afford the pet, do you have the room to provide the appropriate habitat, have you the time and energy 365 days a year (especially in the case of dogs).

Another factor often overlooked is the provision of care for your animals in the event of illness or your death.

Do you have any more pets? Yes, I have two more Gordon Setters, Buddy (ex Dogs Trust) & Max (ex Pauline’s Rescue ROI). Buddy is a PAWS FOR THERAPY DOG, having qualified as a visiting assistance & rehabilitation

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animal five years ago. My ‘family’ also includes three chinchilla’s re-homed from the ManxSPCA last January. Last but by no means least I have a Great White Cockatoo who has lived with us for the past 29 years and this year he

The best & worst thing about having a pet is? Although a much clichéd comment ‘unconditional love & companionship’ is as true today as it was thousands of years ago.

For me the pure pleasure of watching an animal from a re-homing centre settle into your home is a tough act to follow. The worst thing is, when it is time to say goodbye.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

Give an animal a home Robyn and Biddy have lives with us in Cattery longer than any of other residents and they really don’t understand why no-one wants to give them the chance of a new life. They were nervous when they first came in to us but they’ve settled really well and get on with the other cats in our social rooms. They’re nine year old tabby and white brother and sister who were not used to going outside as they were housecats before thy came to us but they now love sunbathing in our enclosed cat garden. Biddy likes to be stroked and Robyn love to keep an eye on what you’re doing – from a safe distance. They’d like a home with a patient owner who is used to cats and who will give them the time they need to settle down and become loving and happy companions. They’d like to live in the South of the Island as they’ve already experienced the delights of the North and they’ll enjoy going out into the sunshine once they have become accustomed to their new home and established a bond with their owner. Please give this pretty pair a home and they’ll repay you with years of love and purrs.

dy d i B & Robyn

Pet Questions: Breed: Gordon Setter.

Age: 5 Years old Likes: My human family, my stepbrothers, food, chasing rabbits, pheasants, cats and anything else daft enough to enter my garden. Walking in the many glens & forests on the island. Sleeping by the Aga or on the rug in front of the log burner.

Dislikes: Being told off by my older stepbrother when I play too enthusiastically.

If human what would you be? I would have liked to have been King James I of England or present day, I think a quality control food taster would be a good fun.

Why do you love your human: She provides me with the fun, loving, secure environment I need, plus the food is really good!

If you had one wish what would you wish for: Access to the fridge

Ollie is such a love!

He’s a brindle and white Staffie who is really well-mannered and loves to please you. He’s responding really well to his regular training sessions in the Play Barn and he’s looking forward to finding his own special person top love very soon – maybe it could be you. He’s just needs somebody who understands Staffies and can channel his loyalty and devotion as well as his enthusiasm for life so he can become the perfect pet. Because Ollie is a bouncy boy, just three years old, we would not be happy sending him to a home with young children but if you want a fun, happy lively friend to share your life why not come along and meet Ollie – he’s a little star! Staffies are so eager to please their loved ones that they can be trained to behave in a way which is totally alien to their true character by irresponsible owners and lovely dogs like Ollie suffer because of this. If you are prepared to give up your time for Ollie he’ll love you forever and be your best mate. Give Ollie a chance, please.

Ollie

ManxSPCA • Ard Jerkyll, East Foxdale • Tel: 851672

www.manxspca.com

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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ANIMAL

ROAMING WOLVES

H OW FA R WO U L D YO U G O TO F I N D LOV E ?

WORDS Dave Evans

In July 2011 deep in a Slovenian forest, Hubert Potočnik unknowingly penned the first lines of one of the most epic animal journeys to find love ever recorded. Now you will be glad to hear that it wasn't Hubert looking for love in the forest, but a young male wolf, a wolf that the biologists named Slavc.

As part of an ongoing monitoring initiative, every year a small number of wolves are captured and fitted with GPS collars by biologists from the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia. In 2011 Slavc was one of these wolves. The collars aren't to help confuse them when trying to navigate complex inner city road networks though, they are so the biologists can learn more about the movements of these mysterious and highly secretive animals. The collars transmit GPS coordinates via a GSM modem every 3 hours, and if the collar can't get a signal, then it stores the coordinates and they are relayed in a batch once a signal is possible again. It is quite common to lose the signal for days on end, given the terrain these animals travel in.

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What happened over the following 8 months amazed and transfixed everyone involved, and provided an insight in to the remarkable life, endurance and instincts of these mythical animals.

For the next 5 months, nothing very spectacular occurred, infact Slavc behaved in a typical wolf like manner, hanging around with his pack (known as the Slavnik pack) roaming around their territory on the Slovenian/Croatian border eating and sniffing stuff. Then on December 19th 2011 Slavc suddenly struck out, and moved far outside his natal territory, significantly he had managed to cross 2 large motorways which generally act as massive barriers to most wildlife as they

tend to be fenced along their entire lengths.

Slavc continued to make his way North through Slovenia and in to Austria, with the GPS coordinates showing that on New Year's eve 2011 he swam across the 280 metre wide Drava River (possibly doing doggy paddle*). In Austria Slavc continued North, and then switched direction West and traversed along the rugged Austrian Alps. We don't know what heights Slavc ultimately climbed, but we do know that some of the passes were over 2600ft in height, and with this being in the midst of winter he would have encountered snow up to 6 metres in depth. Slavc followed the Austrian Alps, and crossed South across the Italian border sometime in February.

Slavc continued South through Italy as far

SLAVC'S JOURNEY ENDED 2000 KM FROM WHERE IT STARTED, WITH SLAVC TRAVELLING OVER 200KM A WEEK AT SOME POINTS. DESPITE THIS MASSIVE DISTANCE COVERED, THERE WAS ONLY ONE CREDIBLE SIGHTING OF SLAVC ALONG THIS JOURNEY, WHICH IS TESTAMENT TO THE SECRETIVE WORLD THESE ANIMALS INHABIT

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT ANIMAL

down as the Valpolicella region just north of Verona, and was the first wolf recorded in this region for nearly 150 years. After putting in his guest appearance near Verona, Slavc headed back North where he eventually seemed to settle in a place called Lessinia Natural Park during April. The Slovenian biologists having the exact GPS coordinates got in touch with the Italian park rangers, and asked them to go and check the GPS location. There was still snow on the ground, and spotting the tracks to confirm Slavc's presence would be easier. However the rangers found not just one set of wolf tracks, but two. Slavc had met a female, and with such a powerful love story set so close to Verona, it was inevitable that the Italian media would name the female Juliet. Juliet had only recently arrived in Lessinia herself having travelled from a French Alpine population, and together her and Slavc have possibly had 2 litters of pups (these have been caught on remote camera) in the two years following, and with this formed the first wolf family in this area for over 100 years. The GPS collar had a battery life of 1 year, and on ethical grounds was programmed to fall off in August 2012.

Slavc's journey ended 2000 km from where it started, with Slavc travelling over 200km a week at some points. Despite this massive distance covered, there was only one credible sighting of Slavc along this journey, which is testament to the secretive world these animals inhabit. No one will know what determined Slavc's path along this epic journey, or what it was that eventually drew him to Lessinia which had been devoid of any wolves for the past 100 years, to eventually find his mate. Most would probably attribute it to chance, but then we would just be guessing at something we don't yet understand. Nature still has a magic, a magic that humans have to the most extent lost on our journey towards civilisation and our never ending pursuit of the mighty dollar. There is still much we need to learn from nature, and hopefully we learn our lessons before we destroy it, humans have a habit of burning the library without first reading the books. As romantic and epic as Slavc's story is, wolves and other large carnivores continue to fight for their survival in a human dominated world, they fight persecution, intolerance, habitat destruction and ignorance in an unequal battle. However given the space, and if left alone they will fulfil their duties within the rich tapestry of life which leads to a healthier and richer world for us all. For now at least, there is a new chorus of howls ringing out through the valleys of Lessinia for those lucky enough to hear them.

Pups drinking caught on a remote camera

Radio Collared wolf

Wolf running in snow

Actual photo of Slavc fleeing through the forest after been collared.

* Unconfirmed, merely hypothesised as I’ve never heard of wolfie paddle.

BECAUSE BECAUSE QUALITY QUALITY MATTERS MATTERS

23 35

FEATURE

WORDS Grace Ryan ILLUSTRATION Liam Nunn

It’s February, and Valentine’s day is approaching fast. If anything, it’s approaching too fast, and needs to pause, take a deep breath and concentrate on something less sexy, like the mental image of its grandmother tenderising a pork chop.

For lovers Feb 14th promises 24 hours of unbridled passion, but not everybody is lucky enough to come home from work to 13 red roses and a spanking. I’m going to ask you to take a moment out from compiling an R Kelly playlist and ordering furry handcuffs off the internet to think of those people less fortunate than yourselves. I don’t mean people suffering through disease or civil war, but the true forgotten victims of Saint Valentine: single celebrities.

It just breaks my heart. They are so beautiful, so talented, but somehow can’t find a partner and will probably spend Valentine’s day curled up with a copy of 50 Shades and a dented box of Milk Tray chocolates bought from the late night garage. All these lonely superstars have to console themselves is fantastic wealth, the option of never working again and the opportunity to have wanton, no-strings rumpy pumpy with one or more of their millions of adoring fans. It must be awful.

Well, I have a heart, and it bleeds for them.

I simply cannot bear to live in a world where a lonely Justin Bieber cries himself to sleep, and so have taken matters into my own hands to nominate a short list of perfect celebrity unions. Perhaps a copy of this magazine will find its way to cupid, the arrows of desire will fly and romance will blossom for these lonely A-listers? If true love fails, there’s at least the chance of some pretty steamy sex tapes the next time the North Korean hackers strike.

RUSSELL BRAND & KATIE PRICE Why haven’t they found love? In the time taken for this issue to go to print the lovely Ms Price has probably fallen head-over-spike-heels in love, popped out another two children, fallen out with the father and is at this moment composing a withering all-caps tweet about the size of his Peter Andre. Russell Brand is finding it hard to juggle a new career (speaking out against wealth, soundbites and celebrity) with a crippling addiction to these very same things. Ooh, Mr Winkie!

Why they would be perfect for each other: Both are loud, narcissistic selfpublicists with big hair and a love-hate relationship with tabloid newspapers. A mutual history of nudity, partying and an extravagant ‘dream wedding’ that quickly ended in tears. Although both are successful authors, Katie has read fewer books than she has written and is unlikely to step on hubby’s toes in that respect. Based on his previous relationships, Brand should hopefully manage to remember her name and won’t need to get new initials engraved on his wedding band.

They would be 2015’s: Kim Kardashian (buxom, wealthy, slightly dim, reality/sex tape star) and Kanye West (egocentric, jewellery, messiah complex).

How their kids would turn out: Born with a suntan and their own section in the Sun’s gossip column.

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FEATURE

BORIS JOHNSON & KATY PERRY

TOM CRUISE & GWYNETH PALTROW

Why haven’t they found love? Boris is often accused of being a serial philanderer who succeeds in life through charm and guile rather than commitment or consistency. Katy Perry was married briefly to Russell Brand, who is nothing like Boris whatsoever - because Boris has his own money and can speak latin.

Why haven’t they found love? One is the creepy public face of a celebrity lifestyle cult, the other took his shirt off in Top Gun.

Why they would be perfect for each other: Could share funny stories about grand public entrances gone wrong, wardrobe malfunctions and comedy gaffes. Both like a drink or ten, appearing in front of crowds and bonking a lot.

Why they would be perfect for each other: Scientology either confuses or bores mentally competent people, but Gwyneth has years of practice in remaining conscious during Coldplay’s gigs. There’s a distinct possibility that one or both of them was replaced with an android some time in the 1990s and the public haven’t noticed.

They would be 2015’s: Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes.

How their kids would turn out: wild-haired, ambitious, like a firework.

How their kids would turn out: leaders of an organically-nourished master race able to suck donations from your bank account with powerful psychic rays. Taller than you because their lawyers have sued your legs away below the knees.

KATIE HOPKINS & THE ALIEN

MILEY CYRUS & JUSTIN BIEBER

Why haven’t they found love? Both are vicious, spiteful alpha predators incapable of empathy or weakness. Can only be truly stopped by being burned with a flamethrower and then ejected into the cold vacuum of space.

Why haven’t they found love? Bred in vats on Disney’s facility for new child stars, neither was raised to comprehend basic human morality before being gifted with fantastic wealth and a pet monkey. Each is a modern-day Frankenstein’s monster: horrifying, made of spare parts, but desperate only to be loved.

They would be 2015’s: if you asked them, they’d say John F and Jackie Kennedy, but more likely to be Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall.

Why they would be perfect for each other: both have blood of acid and wallpaper their nests with the still-living bodies of their prey. The Alien could teach Katie the novel concept that sometimes your goals can be accomplished by simply keeping quiet for a few minutes, and Katie could show The Alien how to sow terror through the medium of Twitter.

They would be 2015’s: worst nightmare - a remorseless enemy that either destroys you by pouncing from air vents, or by constantly appearing as a talking head on TV programmes, breaking your will to live with its corrosive opinions.

Why they would be perfect for each other: no normal person could possibly understand somebody who had an entourage when most of us were lucky to have a Playmobil garage set, let alone a pet monkey.

They would be 2015’s: somewhere between Bonnie and Clyde, Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown or The Krankies.

How their kids would turn out: too frightening to contemplate, although hope exists that Disney deliberately engineered this strain as sterile, like the replicants from Blade Runner.

How their kids would turn out: of a mucus-encrusted egg, and then bursting out of your chest cavity. Nuke the site from orbit, it’s the only way to be sure.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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FEATURE

Don’t forget

Valentine’s Day! e s Se lfridg is M n i f T h e st af py to h e lp you ap will be h pe rfe ct outf it at choose t h you r date to wow

Come to The Strand Shopping Centre and find that perfect gift to make Valentine’s Day special. You can even take a photo or write your name on our famous Love Wall.

eryt hi ng, For th e m an with ev re th e Qua dcopte r is su ! to get his heart ra ci ng

o r wh y loved o n ot su rpirse y ou ne w Va le nt ith th at spe r ine ci a fro m t ’s ca rd or gif l h e Ca rd t Fa ctory .

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Love Valentine’s. Love The Strand.

/claremontiom

ed a ll shopp e ’r u o y en é A n d wh t u n wi n d i n Caf o n out, why h a de liciou s hot it Ava nti w late a n d choco reat. a t a sty t ISLE OF 3 MAN /thestrandshoppingcentre M PREMIER MAGAZINE

FEATURE

Love Valentine’s.

Love The Strand.

SHOPPING CENTRE • DOUGLAS

l l a W e v T h e Lo trand eS e at Th Centr g n i p Shop ay 1st d n u S th from ay 15 d n u to S ary Febru

WIN a romantic night’s

stay for two at the Claremont with a dinner at Coast

To enter the competition, simply visit The Strand opping entre fill out your alentine s car an place it in our ra o at The Strand Shopping Centre. The most romantic message will e selecte y an announce li e on air on on ay t e ruary

Love Shopping. Love The Strand.

Closing date - 15th February. Prize must be used by the end of April 2015. Competition entrants must be aged 18 or over.

The Strand Shopping Centre • Strand Street • Douglas TEL: 01624 662411 BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

/thestrandshoppingcentre

/strandshopping www.thestrand.co.im

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FEATURE

EYE SPY

WORDS | Zara Palmer Watkinsons

HIGH MAINTENANCE WOMAN//

INTERNET DATING I’d really like to strangle whoever it was at Hallmark V ’ D .

I’m sure they were just trying to brighten up what is probably the dullest month of the year, but surely they could have thought of something better – what about National Sunbed Week or Buy a New Pair of Shoes Day? Even cosy couples admit the 14th is full of minefields – but just imagine for a minute how it feels to be single on a day that’s completely focused on romance. It’s like turning up at a party wearing last year’s boho look when everyone else has moved on to sharp trouser suits and sleek hair. Just awful. Of course now that I’m an independent woman (that’s one of my New Year’s resolutions), I decided to take the matter into my own hands and go man shopping.

It all started when I wandered into the “personal development” section in Waterstones. People always say literature is inspirational – and when I saw Weekend Love Coach, Superflirt and How to Get the Man you Deserve – I started to understand what they meant.

I decided to try out some of the techniques straight away and homed in on a rather arty type browsing the biography section.

I didn’t get very far though; he started backing away once he’d noticed the titles of the books I was carrying, I suppose that’s why they call it self-help – you’re supposed to keep it to yourself.

My new books gave me lots of ideas of where to meet the right sort of men. Art galleries for instance. Trouble is, when I tried to lounge around artistically, like the book suggested, at the Sayle Gallery, I just ended up knocking over a rather fragile sculpture. I attracted attention all right – but not quite the right kind. Next on the list was the supermarket – apparently heaving with men desperate for a nice girl to rustle them up a risotto. I wandered around Shoprite for ages and was thrilled when I spotted a mature sort of chap following me up and down the aisles – older men are so ‘in’ these days. Turned out it was the store detective. He did ask me out, but it was just to accompany him outside the store – apparently I’d been loitering around the ready meals section too long.

The next place to try was a cafe. No, not to chat up the nerdy types in the corner entrenched in endless games of Everquest, but to try internet dating. Despite my first reservations I must admit I really enjoyed it. It was such a relief not to have to put up with dodgy chat-up lines, cheap aftershave and being bought those disgusting Bacardi Breezer things. And no more leering from the other side of the bar if you don’t like the look of someone you just hit delete.

It was all going so well. I had lots of response to my ad and one of them was charming, or at least he sounded perfect on screen ... tall, dark, handsome, loves puppies and works as a fireman. I only asked for a photo. Simple request, or so I thought, until I got his email. I’ll spare you the details, but let’s just say that his definition of a ‘head shot’ was rather different to mine. After the email set off the pornographic-content alarm, I’ve been too embarrassed to go back to the cafe, so I guess that’s it for my internet dating.

But I think I might have hit on the perfect solution.

I to join a good gym. Of course you don’t actually bother with the exercising part, you just sit by the pool looking fabulous and check out the guys going into the pool after the workout. And the best bit?

If you don’t meet anyone you can always ease the pain of being single with a nice facial or one of these lovely hot stone massages. Just the excuse I needed to buy that new Chanel waterproof mascara.

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RANT

FEATURE

WORDS | Clare Bowie

Fifty shade friggi s of n red. ..

8 reasons to not � Valentine’s Day T

1 2 3 4 5

I’ Oh God here it comes and this year it’s on a Saturday! Restaurants of the world rejoice, bring on the dinner a deux extortionate menus please.

Even Tesco’s are trying to peddle meal deal romance, nothing quite says I love you like a ping ping dinner!

Oh well, at least you can have a normal night out on the Friday until you realise that it will be Friday the 13th! Say no to superstition (and hello to a black cat and two magpies, just in case).

Ah those childhood rejection memories: You never had a coveted red envelope sticking out of your schoolbag and you would literally have donated a kidney for one of those bad boys. When you did finally get a puffy card in a box you hate to admit it but it made you feel pretty darn special.

Turns out your cynicism is all for show. You detest Valentine’s Day and its commercial fakery etc. etc, but seriously I am going to need one of those cards. Oh and did I mention I will be judging you on the tastefulness of the card. You know; not too red, not too big, not too hearty and don’t even think about an e-card! Just no!

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6 7 8

Although a card is usually enough to seal the deal, if there are going to be gifts then there are also rules for the gift giving. Chocolates will always work; it’s a no brainer, but cuddly toys or chocolates in the shape of cuddly toys. Again: just no! #nottenyearsoldanymore.

If you do go to a restaurant for a “love off” contest, you get eye strain because your table is so close to the neighbouring table that your peripheral vision is impossible to switch off and your shoulders are tense from trying not to knock the wine off the miniature table for two, every time you reach over to your romantic sharing platter.

You get weird “Happy Valentine’s Day” group emails from people in work. It’s not my birthday dufus and I don’t love you! But to be fair they are also the type of people who say “annual appraisal time” with a smiley face and a disconcerting spring in their step.

SWALK that suckers!

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UPFRONT

MISC

THE RANDOMNESS OF

RICH AND FAMOUS

MISC

Some say that good things come in threes, but in this case the best things come in pairs. After all what’s Ant without Dec and the cinema without popcorn. Here’s a list of some of the best combinations and pairs we could think of:

BREAKING BAD RECORDS

1

Fish & Chips - let’s start as we mean to go on. A brilliant British classic. There isn’t much more to say, except… I’m hungry.

2

Tom & Jerry - a brilliantly memorable cartoon about a cat and a mouse, which funnily enough shouldn’t be a good combo.

3

Bonnie & Clyde - Ok, maybe these two aren’t known for the best reasons. They are still one of the most well known pairs, even if that is for robbing banks and killing Police officers.

4

Batman & Robin - Every bad guy fighting superhero needs a right hand man. In Batman’s case it was Robin, and what a perfect combination of batmobile passengers they are.

5

Ben & Jerry - Wow. That is all we can say about this beautiful pair of ice cream connoisseurs. They do it perfectly, every time.

With stiff competition such as the NFL up against the finale of Breaking Bad the figures weren’t expected to be too astonishing. But when they came in at a whopping 10.3 million viewers, it was obvious the critically acclaimed show was ‘breaking’ all kinds of records.

When a High School Chemistry teacher, Walter White, finds out he is terminally ill, he sets about doing whatever he can to make sure his family is financially stable after he is gone.

Walter teams up with a former student of his, Jesse Pinkman. These two together combine unbelievable chemistry knowledge with the knowledge of the streets and demand for illegal drugs. Pairing these two things together, the duo start production of Crystal Meth in an old RV. This makes Walter and Jesse the most unlikely but formidable partners in crime.

AN EXPLOSIVE GAME

A game of Ping Pong is one that has to be played in pairs, that much is fact. However, soft drink giants Pepsi took it upon themselves to play a very different version of the game to celebrate the new year.

Pepsi have released an advert in which 2,014 ping pong balls are placed on mouse traps and one trigger ping pong ball is used to set off the chain reaction (year 2015, 2,015 ping pong balls, get it?). The reactions take place inside a mirrored hallway making the transition of 2014 to 2015 one of incredible visual eruptions.

NOTORIOUS D.O.G.

Most people are familiar with the washing machine eating the odd sock every now and then, but when a family in Oregon noticed more than just the odd sock going missing they realised they had a problem. In total 43 socks went missing from this ordinary family home, where did they go? The dog ate them. No, this isn’t a shoddy excuse to why the kids didn’t do their homework, this really did happen.

When the family noticed their dog was very unwell they took him to the vets, only to find out the cause of his illness was the washing machines contents in his stomach. Even though the family have got their dogs snacks back there’s still one more problem, the family still need to find that missing sock.

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2 PINTS OF LAGER AND A PACKET OF... BACON

It’s difficult to think of something better than Bacon. What about Beer? But don’t worry about choosing between the two, because at BarBacon Restaurant in New York they specialise in combining bacon and beer in a menu of cravings and dreams come true.

Owner Peter Sherman, uses his knowledge of bacon to pair it with the perfect beer blend to complement the flavours in the bacon, saying his menu gives bacon the true recognition that it deserves.

The menu is a mecca of BBQ and grilled bacon encouraging customers to experiment with the tastes of different beers and types of bacon. How quick can I get to New York?

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

EVENTS

CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH MANAGEMENT BEAUJOLAIS SAMPLING EVENT Location - Portofino Restaurant

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

COUNTING HOUSE SETS THE STANDARD AT RUSSIAN THEMED ECLUB

EVENTS

Location - Bar George

Over 75 guests joined Paul Davis and local payment solutions consultancy, Counting House on Wednesday 7th January to celebrate the Russian Orthodox Christmas with a Russian Christmas themed eClub.

A range of flavoured vodkas, blinis and caviar helped to set the scene as members of the Island’s eGaming community saw in the New Year with the first eClub instalment of 2015.

The evening’s entertainment centred around the Russian Orthodox Christmas Day, which is currently 13 days behind that adopted by most countries. This is due to the Russian Orthodox Church’s decision to follow the old Julian calendar, as opposed to the Gregorian calendar adopted by the Bolshevik government in 1917.

It is believed that the manner in which one celebrates a Russian Orthodox Christmas and New Year is reflective of the months to come, which certainly bodes well for eClub 2015. www.facebook.com/IsleofManeClub

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UPFRONT

DOUGLAS RUGBY CLUB LUNCH Location - Douglas Rugby Club | Photography - Tony Wilson-Spratt

Douglas Rugby Club match day lunches continue to gather ex-players and supporters to the re-vamped Port-e-Chee Clubhouse.

Tickets are available for 2015 matches.

Please call 690023.

21st February v Altrincham Kersal 7th March v Manchester 28th March v Northwich 18th April v Sefton

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CULTURE

CULTURE

NEWS

CULTURE NEWS ISLAND O CULTURE CONCLUDES CHAPTER ONE OF ITS ‘STORY TO THE WORLD’ Island of Culture events director Michael Lees has said the Isle of Man is a ‘true cultural powerhouse’.

Mr Lees was speaking at a reception to mark the conclusion of a year of Island-wide cultural celebrations.

More than 80 guests, including His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor Mr Adam Wood, the President of Tynwald and Island of Culture co-patron Clare Christian, Isle of Man Arts Council chairman Geoff Corkish, and the Mayor and Mayoress of Douglas, Stan and Sheila Cain, gathered in the Empress Hotel on January 6th, a year to the day since Island of Culture was launched, to hear Mr Lees declare ‘What a year and what a story it [Island of Culture] has been.’

2014 had been, he said ‘a wonderful year for the arts in the Isle of Man’, a sentiment echoed by Mrs Christian who spoke of how Island of Culture had provided ‘varied and exciting’ offerings, encouraged creativity and opened open people’s eyes ‘to the richness of the Island’s cultural canvas.’

For Mr Corkish 2014 had been ‘a vibrant year of celebrations’ that had ‘gained new converts’ to the arts, ‘spawned’ new cultural events, left a lasting legacy and would contribute to shaping the Arts Council’s future strategy.

Mr Lees also observed how communities across the Island had come together ‘to celebrate and interpret in their own creative ways, elements of our cultural life’ and how schools had embraced Island of Culture with enthusiasm and imagination.

Youth cultural ambassadors Jason Evans, Davy Knowles and Lloyd Mayor were praised by all three speakers for taking time out of their busy schedules to return home during the year and share their talent and skills in concerts and workshops. Their contribution, said Mr Lees, would leave ‘a legacy of incalculable worth’.

Concluding Mr Lees said that Island of Culture had left ‘a tangible legacy’ – a substantial bursary fund that would ‘help set young Manx artists on new and exciting career pathways so that they, too, in years to come, might add new chapters to the story we tell to the world.’

Complementary Island of Culture 2015 calendars, featuring images from many of the year’s events, are available from The Welcome Centre in the Sea Terminal. For details of other outlets contact Emma.Quirk@gov.im, Tel: 697420.

BILINGUAL EDITION OF THE TOMATO CAIN STORIES

BY NIGEL KNEALE PUBLISHED Yn Çheshaght Ghailckagh, Culture Vannin, The Isle of Man Arts Council in conjunction with Island of Culture are delighted to announce the release of a bilingual edition of some of the stories from the 1949 classic, Tomato Cain and other stories.

Titled, Tomato Cain and some other stories / Tomato Cain as paart dy skeealyn elley, the book consists of seven of the specifically Isle of Man based stories from the original 1949 publication, which was responsible for establishing the profile of Nigel Kneale who became well-known to millions of people for the stories he wrote about Professor Bernard Quatermass.

The stories in this edition aren’t about science fiction or dystopian worlds but about rural life in Mannin at the end of the 19th century, telling the stories he would have heard from his grandparents growing up, stories about scandal, the skeet and the bittersweet comedy of everyday life.

Given the quality of the original stories and their importance to an understanding of traditional Manx life secondary school English departments will be receiving free copies of the books in an attempt to encourage a new generation of students to discover the work of a truly talented Manx author with an international reputation.

For more information about the book, which retails for £10, its translation and also the work of Culture Vannin and yn Çheshaght Ghailckagh in supporting the language then contact Adrian at: adrian@culturevannin.im www.learnmanx.com

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CULTURE

REFLECTIONS ON AN IMAGE A DAY Artist Juan Moore looks back - and forwards - over a year in images captured for Island of Culture.

‘Looking back at the start of the project I think I was incredibly naive about how big it would be. The project has been extremely demanding but also really rewarding. I’ve had the opportunity to work across many mediums and explore a number of themes, which is always good fun. In terms of thinking of an image to create every day I’ve only really stumbled a couple of times. At the end of January I had a couple of days where I really found it hard to come up with anything, though I did in the end, and then there was a brief spate around TT week when I wanted to do images that were bike themed without actually doing images of bikes.

‘The long duration of the project, a whole year, has made the process of creating an artwork every day into sort of a habit; it’s become something I just do every day now. And it’s been nice that I can explore whatever medium I’m in the mood for, be it acrylic paint, print making, digital or drawing. People ask me how far ahead I work. To be honest, not very, usually only a day ahead.

‘Part of the project meant travelling round all the island’s high schools and producing an artwork in front of the students.

‘The thing I’ve enjoyed the most about the project is the amount of exposure it has gotten; it’s not just the Manx public that have viewed the daily artwork, but people from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Malta, Bulgaria - all over the world, really.

I’ve even had views from far-flung islands in the South Pacific and Mongolia. The blog averages around 100 to 200 views per day with a current total of around 40k views.

‘I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Island of Culture team, the Arts Council for funding the project and to everyone who has viewed the blog throughout the year. It’s been a full-on year for the island in terms of creativity and I hope 2015 will be equally as amazing.’ www.imageadayiom.blogspot.com For more information visit: www.juanillustration.wix.com/juanmoore

NEW THEATRE OPENS ITS DOORS!

FUN, FREEDOM AND FABULOUSNESS: THE YOUTH ARTS CENTRE The Youth Arts Centre is about fun but it’s also about failure…in a good way.

‘Young people can try anything here and if it doesn’t work, then it doesn’t matter. They can fail here safely…because they know we’ll always catch them,’ says head of youth arts Fiona Helleur.

King William’s College has announced the opening of its newly renovated performing arts theatre. The theatre, which comprises of brand new retractable seating with a capacity of 211, is one of the largest theatres on the Island.

David Dawson, bookings manager for the new theatre commented, “I couldn’t be more proud of what we at King William’s are trying to do for theatre on the Island. To the best of my knowledge our theatre has the highest seating capacity on the Island behind the Gaiety and Villa. I’m really keen to work with people and help them get the best from our theatre. We already have dance classes using the venue and hopefully we can attract more groups, whether choirs, amateur dramatics or bands, everyone is more than welcome. With plans to develop the venue into the leading theatre space behind The Gaiety, this can only mean great news for our Island and a real investment in our community.”

The Youth Arts Centre (YAC), funded by the Department of Education and Children and the Youth and Community Service has been, in the words of a former member, ‘opening its door, non-judgmentally, to fringe performance styles,’ since 2009 and gives 8 to 18-year-olds the space, encouragement, freedom and opportunities to take part in or, at the very least, experience the performing arts, with no exams and no set curriculum.

To find out more call Fiona, 437339 or visit the Youth Arts Centre, Kensington Road, Douglas IM1 3EG.

King William’s College Big School Theatre is available for hire to public groups and individuals as a rehearsal or performance venue.

For more information call 01624 820400 or download a booking form from the King William’s College Website. www.kwc.im.

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CULTURE

MY NAME IS ...

MY NAME IS...

Hazel Walsh MY JOB IS… Alternative portrait photographer.

THE BEST JOB IN THE WORLD WOULD BE… Taking the photos I love all day long.

MY WORST HABIT IS… Sleeping too much.

IF I COULD CHANGE ONE THING IN MY LIFE IT WOULD BE… My finances.

IF I HAD TO ONLY EAT ONE KIND OF FOOD FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE IT WOULD BE… Steak.

THIS IS A BIT MORE ABOUT MYSELF: As well as boudoir, pin-up, goth, steam punk and various other styles of photography I am a mixed media artist focussed on themes of death and decay and a burlesque dancer.

IF I COULD BE A CELEBRITY FOR A DAY, IT WOULD BE… Tim Burton.

THE BEST TIME OF YEAR IS… Winter, but only if there’s snow!

THE BEST ADVICE I’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN IS… ‘Don’t worry, be happy’.

IF I COULD HAVE ONE QUESTION ANSWERED IN THE WORLD IT WOULD BE… Why???

THE 3 MOST IMPORTANT THINGS IN LIFE ARE… Loved ones, happiness, travel.

WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR 2015… Diet, exercise, travel, take more photos and learn to play the trumpet.

... e s u o h My dream

Peel Castle Opposite - monster inside exstreme

ARTIST AND ILLUSTRATORS - would you like to see your work featured in Gallery Magazine?

Simply get in contact with us mynameis@gallery.co.im

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

CULTURE

Firefly

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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CULTURE

Rachel Miles

You could win up to ÂŁ200 of photographic equipment every month in 2015

photographers

wanted for charity calendar

How to enter

Open to anyone aged 18 or under.

Email your photographs by the 15th of each month to calendarcomp@gallery.co.im Photographs will be displayed monthly in Gallery Magazine during 2015.

Photographs must be HIGH RES, 300DPI AND AT LEAST 4MB IN SIZE.

For full details go to: www.gallery.co.im/young-photographers-wanted For more information about the Society for the Preservation of the Manx Countryside & Environment C N .3 1 manxfaragher@yahoo.com or phone: John on 07624 417119.

There is also a facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/iomspmce

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

CULTURE

FEBRUARY 2015 FINALIST

View all entries at www.gallery.co.im. Deadline for the March entries is the 20th February

WINNER

Ryan Woodsworth Age 7 Peel Castle Sunset

Alexander Age 16

Krysia Fitzpatrick Age 16

Need advice on how to take a quality photo on your iphone? Want to know how to take a high res photo?

Go to: www.gallery.co.im

Sam Bucknall Age 16

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CULTURE

WHAT’S ON

CULTURE

What’s on...

FEBRUARY 2015

L

Now – 28.02.2015

* 06.02.2015 - 27.02.2015

THE EMBROIDERERS’ GUILD

FRIDAY ART CINEMA

THE ISLE GALLERY, ST JOHNS

A chance to see works by directors which changed the way films were made. Details of each film will be on the Sayle Gallery’s facebook page earlier in the week.

A rich and varied exhibition of work by members of the Isle of Man Embroiderers’ Guild. For associated workshops please email the Isle Gallery. islegalleryiom@gmail.com

SAYLE GALLERY, DOUGLAS

Free entry - doors open 7pm. www.facebook.com/SayleGallery

www.facebook/theislegallery

04.02.2015 – 28.02.2015 PAINTINGS FROM THE VER ELST COLLECTION ERIN ARTS CENTRE, PORT ERIN The James Mellon Art Gallery is open Wednesday - Friday, 10.30am - 4.30pm & during events. www.erinartscentre.com

* 13.02.2015 – 14.02.2015 JARROD DICKENSON LAXEY/PEEL A welcome return to the Island for Texan troubador singer/songwriter/guitarist and all round Southern gentleman Jarrod Dickenson who, after selling out Jabberwocky in 2013 is returning to play two gigs (Friday – Laxey Institute, Saturday – Centenary Centre, Peel).

Earlybird tickets £10 from

* 05.02.2015 – 01.03.2015 THREE PHOTOGRAPHERS

www.etickets.im/jp or £12 on the door (if any left). www.jonnopromotions.com

SAYLE GALLERY, DOUGLAS A collaborative project featuring local photographers Bill Callow, Dorothy Flint and Patricia Tutt.

Window display of work by Jelena Benson - with a Valentine’s Day theme. www.facebook.com/saylegallery

06.02.2015 EAC PIANO SERIES – IMMANUEL VOIGT ERIN ARTS CENTRE, PORT ERIN Award-winning German pianist Immanuel Voigt won a scholarship in 2013 for postgraduate studies at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama. He has appeared in many prestigious venues across the UK and was a finalist and prize winner at the 2014 EPTA piano competition. He has also played in orchestral and chamber-music settings and his repertoire for this performance includes Scarlatti, Mozart, Chopin and Liszt.

Appearing by kind permission of the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama.

Sponsored by Mr & Mrs D Galloway.

Tickets: Adults £10 (EAC Members £9, U18’s £1) www.erinartscentre.com

14.02.2015 – 14.03.2015 IOM PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY EXHIBITION HODGSON LOOM GALLERY, LAXEY A variety of work from photographers around the Island.

Open Monday to Saturday, 9:00 – 5:00. www.iomps.com www.facebook.com/hodgsonloomgallery

28.02.2015 JOHN GREGORY IN CONCERT ERIN ARTS CENTRE, PORT ERIN The genre of country blues is a treasure trove of timeless songs featuring great stories and superb acoustic guitar playing from local musician John Gregory, paying homage to some of his favourite musicians and including murder ballads, train tunes and even a song about flirting with mermaids.

Starts: 8.00pm Tickets: £8 ( U18’s £1) Book Online www.etickets.im/jg or email bluejohnmedia@hotmail.co.uk www.erinartscentre.com

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* Supported by the Isle of Man Arts Council ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

CULTURE

“JEWELL” SHINES IN NATIONAL IMAGE OF THE YEAR AWARD ESTABLISHED IN 1988, THE GUILD OF PHOTOGRAPHERS IS AN ELITE SELECTION OF BRITAIN’S FINEST PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS AND PASSIONATE ENTHUSIASTS WORKING IN THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY OF PHOTOGRAPHY. I S 2 I M astonished judges with her exquisite and captivating equine photography, enjoyed and shared across social media. The strength of her images secured T G ’ G A of Jessie.

Ten months on, having being granted a further two gold awards with her equine photography.

Sarah received the news announcing she is one of only six selected photographers shortlisted for Image of the Year by the board at The Guild of Photographers with five of her images being selected.

Still astounded to be nominated by the panel, Sarah goes on to say “I’m still a bit shocked in all honesty! I can’t believe my photography is being recognised at this level and it’s a true privilege to hold the first ever gold representing equine that has led onto this. It’s my passion to take pictures and it’s my life to be around horses, to mix the two as a career path really is what they call ‘living the dream! It doesn’t matter who takes the title now, I already feel like I’m a winner. ‘Chuffed to bits’ doesn’t even come close to my gratitude!”

Sarah has also photographed double Gold medallist and Junior Event Rider, Yasmin Ingham, who represents Great Britain both nationally and internationally. Sarah plans to travel and pursue her dream of photographing horses.

Throughout 2014, The Guild of Photographers received over 10,000 images in the running the annual Photographer of the Year competition. The final assessment will see the printed images judged by a panel of experienced professionals from varied photography backgrounds, with the overall winners being announced at a special awards ceremony in February. We wish Sarah Jewell and all the contenders, the best of luck on the night.

Jewell Photography T

0

24 4

0

Email: hello@sarahjewell.im www.sarahjewell.im

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CULTURE

THE MONTHLY UPLOAD Want to win £50? All you have to do is email your entry with the subject ‘upload’ to: upload@gallery.co.im. Try to follow a time of the year theme, make the files nice and big though, about

2MB 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 page fullsize unfortunately - they just wouldn’t fit!

£50

Winner

John Kelly

Katie Mckenna

Sam Waters

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Nick Hunt

Sally Bailey

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

CULTURE

Andrew

Andrew Brearley

Geraldine Sowrey

Andy Simpson Barbara Watt

Annie Donnelly

William Galbraith Toni

Felix Galbraith Louise Hollings

Nick Shimmin

Katrina Grib

Jan Treger

Rennie Hollings

Pat Sharp

Rennie Hollings

Neil Dunwell

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Paul Smyth

Nick Hunt

Trudy Haddouche

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CULTURE

EXHIBITION

HODGSON LOOM GALLERY

IOMPS EXHIBITION

THE HODGSON LOOM GALLERY AT THE LAXEY WOOLLEN MILLS WILL BE HOME TO AN EXHIBITION BY MEMBERS OF THE IOM PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY, OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FROM SATURDAY 14TH EBRUARY UNTIL SATURDAY 14TH MARCH. LAXEY PIER - DIANE McCUDDEN

COMMON BLUE DAMSELFLY - CHRIS BLYTH

THE EXHIBITION IS TO BE OPENED BY THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF KEYS, HON STEPHEN RODAN, WHO IS, OF COURSE, ALSO THE MHK FOR THE LOCAL CONSTITUENCY O GAR . THE OFFICIAL OPENING WILL BE HELD ON THE EVENING OF FRIDAY 13TH EBRUARY WHICH WILL BE THE PREVIEW EVENT FOR EXHIBITORS AND INVITED GUESTS. The Gallery provides a superb display area – warm, intimate, and with excellent lighting –and as always, it will be carefully (and A Smyth, allowing the works to be . T IOMPS is delighted to have the opportunity for the exhibition, now in its fourth year at the gallery, and which is a highlight event in their calendar.

to purchase. The exhibition will include both a wide range of subject matter (for example, portraits, natural history, landscape, and architecture) and the work of a wide number of members of the society, which includes some of the island’s finest photographers.

LANDING STAGE - MARTYN PARNELL

The works, some 80 in total, will feature a wide variety of work by members of the society – some exhibiting for the first time – with most images on display being available

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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JOHN McGUINNESS AND BRUCE ANSTEY - MARTYN PARNELL

Amongst the better known names of those exhibiting will be Dr Ruth Nicholls LRPS DPAGB BPE3* EFIAP – perhaps our “most qualified” photographer, having had her work accepted at numerous exhibitions both nationally and internationally, her landscapes and floral studies in particular of the highest quality Ron Shimmin LRPS – a long-time member with an enviable record for producing highly artistic images with a meticulous attention to detail, whether architectural shots or street reportage And Sue Jones CPAGB – another longtime member, now a full-time professional working with Andrew Barton from his Ramsey studios, and who produces top quality images in a wide range of genres More than twenty members are expected to be included as exhibitors, each showing some of the best of their work, and all contributing to what will be an exceptional display of photographic talent, and making a visit to Laxey well worthwhile.

On an historical note, the IOM Photographic Society was founded in 1938 at a time of growing popularity for the hobby of photography. Photography today remains a growing enthusiasm, but is now largely “digital” – with the convenience of home printers replacing the delights (and aroma) of the home dark room – yet still encouraging the artistic talents of those participating!

e ociety eets on e nes ay e enings uring a season running ro late epte er t roug to pril at t e rt ociety uil ing ie llyn in it ington oa ouglas it all eetings starting at p e su er rea usually inclu es a series o outings an or s ops allo ing e ers a itional opportunities to socialise an to e elop t eir p otograp ic s ills LAXEY SUNRISE - DIANE McCUDDEN

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

FULL MEMBERSHIP IS £25 PER YEAR, WITH A GUEST EE ENTRY O UST 1. MEETINGS ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, AND ALL WILL BE GIVEN A VERY WARM WELCOME. FULL DETAILS OF OUR PROGRAMME CAN BE OUND ON OUR WEBSITE AT www.iomps.com

VICTORIAN STYLE - SUE JONES

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CULTURE

WORDS | Suzy Holland PHOTOS | Steve Babb & Hazel Walsh • MODELS | Lucy Richardson, Leonie Ward, Rachel ‘DeeDee’ Crellin

BURLESQUE AND NICE MAKE-UP | Kimberley Berridge

HANDS UP EVERYONE WHO THINKS BURLESQUE IS BASICALLY A STRIP SHOW I YOU ARE A BIT HIGHBROW YOU’LL KNOW THAT THANKS WIKIPEDIA BURLES UE OVERLAPS IN MEANING WITH CARICATURE PARODY AND TRAVESTY, AND, IN ITS THEATRICAL SENSE, WITH E TRAVAGAN A’. IT IS ALSO AN ART ORM WHICH IS ALIVE AND KICKING PUN VERY MUCH INTENDED IN THE ISLE O MAN. Rachel ‘DeeDee’ Crellin is a Manx girl who began dancing at four, set up a podium dance school and group L 200 been seduced by vintage clothing, particularly underwear, became .

Once back on the Island, she set up Sanguine Shee with Gwenael L S burlesque show at Bushey’s tent in TT 2011.

“Far from stripping naked, the first burlesque performers in the 1800s knew that a glimpse of ankle really was something shocking, and so developed routines to titillate audiences with risqué moves showing as little flesh as possible whilst promising more,” says Rachel. “Bump and grind stripping isn’t our thing: successful burlesque depends on humour, elaborate costumes and settings, and telling quite complicated stories whilst keeping our audiences entertained.”

for complete beginners and another intermediate level.”

The classes are certainly a fun way to get fit, find your feet (sorry, another pun) and learn how to strut your stuff or, as Rachel puts it on her website www.sanguineshee. co.uk, find your ‘inner goddess’, without taking all your clothes off. If you then choose to become part of a Sanguine Shee performance, Rachel would be delighted: “Once you know how to move, then it’s a small step to showing it off. We currently have a core group of about 5 dancers who do shows around the Island but I’d love there to be more of us. It isn’t just walking up and down a catwalk taking your clothes off, the choreography sticks closely to the original caricatures and humour, and we use a lot of props – recent shows have included a vampire themed ‘History of Burlesque’ performance for Hop Tu Na – and I hope we show that being sultry and sexy really doesn’t have to mean being naked.”

VALENTINE’S DAY OFFER If you’d like to surprise your man with a sexy pin-up/boudoir style photograph of you for Valentine’s Day – or if you’d like to surprise your woman with her own photoshoot – then photographer Hazel Walsh, whose photograph appears abo e is o erin a special gift deal.

For just £120 you can have a shoot, plus 5 prints and - for an extra 30 included too.

Contact Hazel direct, quoting Gallery magazine, via her facebook page www.facebook.com/ hazelwalshphoto More photos at: www.gallery.co.im

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For the dancers it’s not just about looking good in a leotard. How you use your body is far more important that what size you are – curvy girls are welcome, even encouraged – and many burlesque dancers, like Rachel, have some theatrical or drama background and Jooles Morrison – well known to theatre goers on the Island - has recently joined the company as producer and singer to add another string to the burlesque bow.

But back to the dancing: “Even people who claim not to be dancers have joined my classes and excelled,” says Rachel, “which is why I’m now running two burlesquespecific classes on Friday evenings – one

If you’re tempted, then Rachel can be contacted at deedeeiom@icloud. .Y held at JUFS (Jillian’s Unique Fitness S L P D by checking out Rachel’s own facebook page, www.facebook.com/ Dee-Dee-Burlesque-Performer or the Sanguine Shee facebook page www. facebook.com/sanguineshee. It’s also worth knowing that if you’re a bit nervous and think burlesque isn’t R zumba class the same evening.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FASHION & BEAUTY

FASHION

WORDS & LAYOUT | JORJA HELMOT

ALDO @ ASOS £7.99

TIP THE PAIR TO WEAR Over the knee boots.

Grab them in suede with a generous platform for added nostalgic cool.

TIP SEVENTIES GAL Muddy toned prints and high waisted flares are the ultimate combo for some Saturday night fever!

RIVER ISLAND £70 MARKS & SPENCER £39.50

MISS SELFRIDGE £30

WAREHOUSE £60 JOY £15

MISS SELFRIDGE £25

NEW LOOK £22.99

WOMEN Accessories are supersized this season, seen in pairs of earrings, sunglasses and boots.

As in the seventies, bigger is certainly better now.To follow suit, grab a pair of bell bottom jeans and muddy polo neck for groovy, retro chic.

NEW LOOK £24,99 NEXT £26

TIP

DO IT IN DENIM Denim on denim is the pairing we’re more than welcoming this season - adding a polo where poss.

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ASOS £8 ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FASHION

TIP

THE PAIRS TO WEAR

SUIT UP Swap shirt and tie for a polo neck under your blazer, making the perfect pairing for an office to evening transition.

MARKS & SPENCER £25

MEN Stock up on roll necks in 2015 - a solid base for any outfit. Bold but complementing colours work well when layering and should be paired with either tailored trousers or tapered jeans. Sporty accessories, such as trainers and bombers, give an up to date spin on the traditional gentleman’s garm.

SELECTED @ ASOS WAISTCOAT £60 TROUSERS £55 BLAZER £100

CHELSEA BOOTS

NEW LOOK £24.99

NEXT £20

BROGUES NEW LOOK £29.99

NEW LOOK £6.99 BURTON £40

MARKS & SPENCER £45

AUTOGRAPH MARKS & SPENCER £39.50

ADIDAS @ ASOS £62

TRAINERS

TIP ROLL NECKS Any excuse to layer up in this weather and double knitwear is the way to do it. Opt for bold contrasting colours.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

BEN SHERMAN £70

DESERT BOOTS

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Words: Suzy Holland

DISCERNING SHOPPERS GIVEN 50:50 CHANCE TO HELP LOCAL CHARITY

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charity shop in Windsor Road is perhaps one of the last places you’d head for to find affordable glamour, but the ManxSPCA Second Chance Boutique could be your new favourite haunt.

The name isn’t a co-incidence: ManxSPCA spokeswoman Margaret Mansfield is keen to point out that whilst the charity offers a second chance to pets, wildlife and other animals, the Second Chance Boutique offers a second chance for those clothes and shoes which you might be tired of but others would jump at owning.

“It’s more ‘dress agency’ than charity shop,” says Margaret.

“Many of us spend a lot of money on that ‘special’ outfit for a ball, party, wedding so this boutique operates a 50/50 policy. If you bring in an outfit you might have only worn once or twice, we can agree a sale price of which you will take 50%, with the rest going to the ManxSPCA. We both win!”

You probably associate the ManxSPCA with the dogs and cats cared for at its premises at Ard Jerkyll and then re-homed. But a quick look at www.manxspca.com shows how much more the charity does. Dogs, cats, seals, birds, rabbits – even snakes and terrapins – are looked after by a dedicated group of staff and volunteers. This costs over £1,600 every day, all of which comes from funds raised by the Manx public. The Second Chance Boutique, just up from the Manx Museum on Windsor Road, is part of that

fundraising alongside the more traditional ManxSPCA charity shop on Bucks Road.

“We are really fortunate to have Hazel and Alex as joint managers of the Second Chance Boutique,” says Margaret.

“Their skills and talents have made it an interesting place to shop – they have both got an artistic eye which can present and sell the items – in the window displays and on the customers. I challenge anyone to go in just to browse and not leave with a special item, one which hasn’t broken the bank, but has helped the ManxSPCA in its aim to care for every animal, lost, abandoned or injured that comes to us.”

With plans for the future including an educational programme for schools, a new nature trail to extend dog-walking facilities at Ard Jerkyll, dog-training classes, rabbit socialisation sessions and -, more mundanely - a new industrial washing machine for the boarding kennels, the ManxSPCA really does need your support. If you are de-cluttering your wardrobe now, or after a new outfit which your credit card can’t afford – or both! - then have a look at these photos taken by Second Chance Boutique co-manager Hazel Walsh for inspiration, or just step away from the high street stores and pop in to the most glamorous shop in town, the ManxSPCA Second Chance Boutique in Windsor Road, Douglas.

CREDITS: Photos: Hazel Walsh Models: Rachel Crellin and Quinn Shipton Make-up: Kimberley Berridge Venue/Clothes: ManxSPCA Second Chance Boutique, Windsor Road, Douglas

CREDITS: Photos: Hazel Walsh Models: Rachel Crellin and Quinn Shipton Make-up: Kimberley Berridge Venue/Clothes: ManxSPCA Second Chance Boutique, Windsor Road, Douglas

CREDITS: Photos: Hazel Walsh Models: Rachel Crellin and Quinn Shipton Make-up: Kimberley Berridge Venue/Clothes: ManxSPCA Second Chance Boutique, Windsor Road, Douglas

FASHION

WORDS | Sarah Jewell

hotography rah Jewell P Name | Sa com wellequine. www.sarahje

MAKE HAY WHILE THE SUN SHINES [ZOE & ROSIE] It was an absolutely glorious day for our cover shoot! We had already planned the session and knew we we’re after a studio beauty shoot.

It would have been much easier creating these images in the studio and I would of had full control of the light, but it was a glorious day and would of been a shame to hide indoors, plus I do love a challenge. This also meant the whole creative team could enjoy the sun. Living on the Isle of Man you really do have to make the most of the warmer weather. That amazing feeling of it warming your skin makes me smile just thinking about it!

Oppor

tunity Would Knock y o u like to Photog s! b e rapher (GGCP a Gallery Gu est Co )a photo ver for Ga nd take the l next co l e ry mag Get in ver azine? touch: contrib ute@g allery.c o.im

CREDITS: MODELS | Zoe & Rosie & S HAIR | Utopia MAKE UP | Charlotte Easton

Our models for this shoot were sisters Zoe and Rosie. We had beautiful jewellery from Charles Alexander, hair by the extremely talented Natalie from Utopia and makeup by the wonderful Charlotte Easton.

We spent the afternoon shooting and battling the harsh and fast changing lighting conditions, but I think you will agree the results are simply beautiful.

Experimenting with light has always been one of the fascinating elements of portrait photography, I thrive to learn and always enjoy challenging myself.

Sarah Jewell 58

GGCP

“

It would have been much easier creating these images in the studio and I would of had full control of the light, but it was a glorious day and would of been a shame to hide indoors, plus I do love a challenge.

”

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Spring / Summer 2015 An exiting time of the year where colour and style comes into its own ELLE W

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Open 9.30am - 5pm • Monday - Saturday ELLE.

11 DUKE ST DOUGLAS ISLE O MAN IM1 2BB. TEL 01 24 24 4 . www.ellefashion.net

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

Thinking of proposing to your loved one?

Call into Charles Alexander to view our extensive range of engagement rings and receive a

FREE BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE WITH EVERY PURCHASE CHARLES ALEXANDER LTD • 24 STRAND STREET • DOUGLAS • ISLE OF MAN • IM1 2EG Tel: 01624 621527 • www.charlesalexanderltd.co.uk

FASHION

SS1 60

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FASHION

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pring is dawning, and there is no better time to start thinking about which of the top new season trends you want to experiment with in 2015. One of the easiest ways to cheer up your wardrobe after months of bleak winter weather is to inject some colour into your clothes – luckily, the SS15 catwalks were awash with bright and brave new pairings, whether you like your colours clashing or classic. Take inspiration from some of our favourite designers, and take risks with your colour combinations this season!

Words: Jenny Parkes

COLOUR AND COLLAGE Channel Roksanda’s bold and bright combinations for colourful collage-inspired style, or look to Thomas Tait’s stripes and checkerboard squares in primary tones paired with sheer fabrics to give your SS15 wardrobe an easy update. Keep things simple with minimal, sporty shapes, and let bright blocks of colour do the talking.

KEY COLOURS: SKY BLUE, COOL ORANGE, TOMATO RED, MINT GREEN, SUGAR PINK.

ORANGES AND LEMONS Citrus shades proved popular with designers for spring and summer months this year, as Lucas Nascimento and Emilia Wickstead teamed shades of orange and yellow across their collections for cheerful, sunny style. Get Nascimento’s relaxed take on the trend with loose sweaters, draped maxi skirts and sheer layers, or embrace Wickstead’s interpretation and pair either of these juicy colours with clean, structured pieces in crisp white.

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CANDY CONTRASTS

(above image – courtesy of British Fashion Council)

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Black and white is a classic colour combination, but it doesn’t have to be boring! Take inspiration from the likes of KTZ and Sibling for SS15and bring some excitement to your wardrobe with playful prints, fun fabrics and feminine, futuristic shapes. Striking, oversized applique cameos were the central focus from KTZ, featuring either as all-over prints and appliques on shift dresses, pencil skirts and boxy blouses, while Sibling topped off monochrome separates – think knicker shorts, bandeau tops, tube skirts and fitted jumpers – with huge Lady Gagaesque black and white bow headpieces.

KEY COLOURS: DO YOU NEED TO ASK?

KEY COLOURS: TANGERINE ORANGE, MUSTARD, CHARTREUSE, SUNFLOWER YELLOW, BRIGHT WHITE.

The new colour co

MONOCHROME

os

Sugary shades were saved from being sickly sweet at Antipodium, as colours were contrasted with stark black for a tougher edge on outerwear– it was almost ‘80s bad taste, but it worked! Channel the brand’s masculine/feminine style fusion this spring with casual bomber and denim jackets in sherbet-lemon yellow, light coats in mint-green and dusty coralpink with black collars and buttons.

KEY COLOURS: JET BLACK, MINT GREEN, CORAL PINK, LEMON YELLOW, DELICATE LILAC.

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Photographer: Jewell Photography, Stylist: Sam New, Model: Cara van Rhyn, Hairstylist: Anna-Lucia Hair Studio, Jewellery: Charles Alexander Jewellers, Dress: Bridal House Ramsey

Photographer: Liam Gilman Photography

BEAUTY

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

BEAUTY

WHAT PRODUCTS DO YOU USE?

CHARLOTTE EASTON

One brand alone does not offer everything.

My kit is made up of products for professional makeup artists such as: Kryolan, Gratobian, Mehron, and Ben Nye as well as luxury brands such as Giorgio Armarni, LORAC, Laura Mercier, Face Stockholm, NARS, Illamasqua, Bobbi Brown, Dior, Lancome, Clarins, Benefit, Clinique and Estee Lauder.

Makeup Artistry

Photographer: Simon Park Photography

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR JOB?

My work is extremely diverse!

I currently provide:

I now enjoy teaching other aspiring makeup artists and have taught the “Providing Makeup Services” module at the Isle of Man College. I have also worked on numerous commercials, fashion campaigns, films and music videos on the Island.

Photographer: Jewell Photography, Model: Chloe Magee

Photographer: Jewell Photography, Flowers: The Flower studio, Hair and nails: Renaissance Beauty, Model: Camille Gabriel

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

I made my start in the industry in 2003, training and working for one the world’s most prestigious cosmetics companies whilst I was at University. In 2009, I started a beauty blog, recording different makeup looks I’d created and writing reviews on makeup and skincare products. In 2011, I started assisting a celebrity makeup artist and I did my first wedding.

I also had a very busy career in marketing so my makeup work was kept to evenings and weekends which was hard work. By 2013, I was ready for a lifestyle change and to follow my dream of becoming a successful makeup artist. I undertook further advanced training with one of the UK’s top makeup artists and developed my own unique style of artistry.

Bridal makeup Photographic makeup Bespoke special occasion makeup Commercial makeup Production makeup Private tutorials and group lessons and demonstrations either from my makeup studio in my home in Castletown or on location In a typical week I can be doing two weddings, special occasion makeup, photo shoots and teaching my own private makeup classes.

• • • • • •

We caught up with Charlotte recently to find out a little bit more about her…

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MAKEUP ARTIST AND HOW DID YOU GET YOUR T T I TH I T

Photographer: Jewell Photography, Model: Natacha Le Moignan

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WHAT MAKEUP SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?

E freelance makeup artist based on the Isle of Man and who is passionate about helping people feel good about themselves through the art of makeup. Her goal is a professional and friendly service, regardless of age, skin C you look and feel fabulous!

I love everything about my job. I get to be creative and help my clients feel confident and happy within themselves, that’s the best feeling in the world. Having my own business means I am constantly challenging myself to grow and develop my skill set which I also find a really satisfying process.

Finally, I have met some really nice people along the way and made some great friends!

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BEAUTY

For many years on the Island the ron smith salons have been known as a gents quality barbers. But L

right to start looking at expanding the business and L

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L

is a i ou la ies air salon situate right in the heart o ouglas ust o tran treet at 1 Howard Street.

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The new ladies salon pro ides a walk in service for those spur of the moment colour and restyles, or the quick blow dry for a last minute ni ht out For those of you who want to book an appointment you can via an online booking service which can be found on the Facebook page. So far the online system, which is extremely easy to use, has proved very popular providing instant confirmation and reminder texts, a service Lydia feels is invaluable when you lead a busy life trying to balance work, home and a social life. On request the salon can also offer evening appointments.

Two professional hairstylist work full time in the new salon, Lisa Conway, who Lydia went searching for to help run the salon and Lauren Cawte. Lisa and the ron smith team go way back having once worked at the previous very popular Strand Shopping Centre salon, Lisa also had her own salon in Douglas for 8 years.

Lisa now has some 15 years experience in hairdressing specialising in colour treatments. Lauren Cawte has worked in hair salons for the last 6 years, Lauren finished her 3 year hairdressing course in June 2014 and joined the ron smith team in September and has already proved herself with her cutting and blow drying ability.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

BEAUTY

The new salon is open Tuesday aturday and can o er anythin from a uic trim in your lunch brea to a total colour change, deep conditioning treatment or restyle and blow dry. You can sit back and relax in the welcoming modern friendly salon unwind with a nice co ee and use the free wifi ou can be assured isa and auren will ta e care of you ensuring you leave feeling and looking fabulous.

You can also purchase Fudge and Paul Mitchell Luxury Haircare products and the latest GHD straighteners from the salon. eep an eye out for re ular o ers on the Facebook page and maybe try out the boo now button to book your next online appointment at Ladies by ron smith.

Online booking system: facebook/ladiesbyronsmith

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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BEAUTY

Words: Jenny Parkes

Have a scent-sational Valentine’s Day! VALENTINE’S DAY IS APPROACHING AND, WHETHER YOU’RE A FAN OF THE 14TH FEBRUARY OR NOT, WE DOUBT YOU WOULD TURN YOUR NOSE UP AT ONE OF THESE FRAGRANT GIFTS! Avoid receiving yet another soppy stuffed toy, limp bunch of flowers or cheap chocolates this year by letting them know about these perfectly perfumed alternatives.

Better than lingerie…

Viktor & Rolf BonBon Eau de Parfum

Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Eau de Parfum

Who needs Milk Tray? Caramel is the key note in Viktor and Rolf’s newest fragrance, combined with fruity top notes of mandarin orange and peach, floral orange blossom and jasmine at its heart, and cedar, guaiac wood, sandalwood and amber in the base. Available in 30ml, 50ml and 90ml (£49.50 - £93.50).

This sensual, sophisticated scent offers a seductive mix of rose, rum essence, vanilla orchid and daffodils, with sandalwood, tonka beans and Bourbon vanilla wrapped up in its very own little lace number.

Available in 50ml and 100ml (£56.50 £74.50).

Better than a heart-hodyldibeangr… ted

Better than roses…

Better than a bouquet…

Marc Jacobs Lola Eau de Parfum

Vera Wang Lovestruck Eau de Parfum

DIESEL Loverdose Eau de Parfum

With rose notes at its heart, along with fuchsia, peony and geranium, this floral perfume beats even a dozen roses hands down. Adding more layers of fruity pink peppercorn, pear d’anjou and ruby red grapefruit over vanilla, warm tonka bean and creamy musk, this is a timeless, flirty and feminine fragrance. Available in 30ml, 50ml and 100ml (£38.50 - £64.50).

This beautiful, blooming bottle houses an intoxicating, irresistibly romantic blend of pink guava, mandarin, tuberose, lotus blossom, sheer musk and precious wood.

Vera Wang herself describes this passionate perfume as ‘all about being overwhelmed, inexplicably, hopelessly in love…sexy, sensual, and unstoppable!’ Available in 30ml, 50ml and 100ml (£39.50 - £69.50).

Supposedly possessing molecules that stimulate hypothalamus (the part of the brain responsible for attraction and lust), this spicy floral concoction from Dior contains top notes of star anise and mandarin, followed by jasmine, liquorice and gardenia, resting on an oriental base of amber and vanilla. Available in 30ml, 50ml and 100ml (£29.99 - £49.99).

Better than shoes…

Better than jewellery…

Better than cash…

Jimmy Choo Flash Eau de Parfum

Vivienne Westwood Naughty Alice Eau de Parfum

Paco Rabanne Lady Million Eau de Parfum

This ‘floriental’ number from Vivienne Westwood is a warm and playful fragrance, incorporating black rose, violet and ylangylang - feminine, modern and musky. As a bonus, every bottle also comes with a pretty blue and gold charm bracelet, so you get two gifts in one! Available in 30ml, 50ml and 75ml (£38.00 - £65.00)

Be flash, fancy and fragrant with this fresh floral scent! A few spritzes of this multifaceted mix of neroli, raspberry, orange flower, jasmine, patchouli, hyacinth and honey, and you’ll (quite aptly) feel a million dollars. Available in 30ml, 50ml and 80ml (£36.50 - £65.50)

If his famous shoes are a bit out of your price range, this fragrance from Jimmy Choo is definitely the next best thing.

Spicy, fruity and floral, this perfume will have you party-ready with a heady mix of strawberry, tangerine, pink pepper, tuberose, jasmine and white lily on heliotrope and blond wood. Available in 40ml, 60ml and 100ml (£35.50 - £61.50)

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Better than chocolates…

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

APPETITE

APPETITE

PANCAKE DAY RECIPES

Shrove Tuesday 17 FEBRUARY 2015

Shrove Tuesday, commonly known as Pancake Tuesday. It is a time for people to eat pancakes or participate in pancake races. Pancakes do have have some variations. For example, Welshcakes or light cakes are eaten in Wales while many pancakes in Gloucester are made with suet.

WHAT ARE PANCAKES? Pancakes are the very old beginnings of bread and pastry. Generally a pancake is any kind of batter, fried or baked in a skillet, on a griddle, or on any hot surface. The peoples of all nationalities have

made pancakes from time immemorial. Pancakes are ancient food.

The word pancakes appears in print as early as 1430. Pancakes may have been around since Neolithic humans domesticated einkorn wheat, ground it into flour mixed with bird’s egg and goat’s milk and poured the batter on a heated rock.

It happened before there were pans and long before ovens. The ancient cooks dropped a little gruel on a hot rock of campfire, resulting in thin cakes that were tastier than plain gruel or cakes cooked directly in the embers of the fire.

Perhaps because of this ancient lineage, pancakes are associated with rituals in many countries – Shrove Tuesday, Candlemas, and Chanukah to name a few.

BREAKFAST PANCAKES WITH CRISPY BACON Serves 2 2 eggs

vegetable oil, for shallow frying

5 - 7 tbsp milk

150g pack sliced pancetta

150g/5oz self-raising flour

4 tbsp Lyle’s Golden Syrup®

2 tbsp Tate & Lyle® Caster Sugar

coarsely ground black pepper

1/2 tsp salt

Whisk together the eggs and milk. Place the flour, sugar and salt in large bowl, make a well in the centre, pour in the liquid and mix beat with wooden spoon to make a smooth, thick batter. Set aside for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a non-stick frying pan until crisp and golden. Drain on kitchen paper.

Heat a little oil in a separate frying pan. Carefully drop large spoonfuls of the pancake mixture into the hot frying pan and cook for 2 minutes until crisp and golden.

Slide the pancakes onto serving plates and top with the bacon.

Drizzle over the golden syrup, sprinkle with pepper and serve.

TIP: Pancetta is a smoked, streaky Italian bacon usually available sliced wafer-thin or roughly diced. If you can¹t get hold of it, use regular smoked streaky bacon.

PANCAKES WITH CARAMELISED PEAR AND CHOCOLATE AND A DROP OF LYLE’S GOLDEN SYRUP Serves 4 • Prep time: 15 minutes • Cooking time: 15 minutes 100g (3½oz) plain flour

2 large pears

Pinch salt

Large knob of butter

2 eggs

3tbsp Lyle’s Golden Syrup

300ml (½pt) milk

25g (1oz) dark chocolate

Oil for frying

Crème fraîche (optional)

Place the flour, salt and eggs into a bowl with a dash of the milk.

Beat with whisk until you have a smooth paste. Gradually add the milk, beating all the time to avoid lumps. Leave to stand for five minutes to thicken slightly.

Heat half a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick frying pan and pour a ladleful of the batter into the pan, swirling for a thin layer. Cook on a moderate heat until the edges turn brown. Gently loosen the edges with a spatula and then flip the pancake. Cook for 30 seconds and then turn out onto a plate. Repeat to make 8 pancakes, placing a small piece of parchment between each pancake. Keep warm.

Peel and slice the pears into eighths. Melt the butter in a large frying pan and heat until bubbling. Tip in the pears and fry until browned, turning every now and then. When brown drizzle over Lyle’s Golden Syrup and heat until bubbling. Melt the chocolate and serve the pancakes filled with the pears and drizzled with the chocolate. Delicious served with crème fraîche for extra indulgence!

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

APPETITE

LYLE’S CLASSIC PANCAKES Makes about 15 • Prep time: 5 minutes • Cooking time: 20 minutes 110g (4oz) plain flour 275ml (10floz) full fat milk 1 large egg 1 large egg yolk

1 tbsp vegetable oil, plus extra for frying Lyle’s Golden Syrup, to serve 1 lemon, cut into 8 wedges, optional

Put the flour in a mixing bowl and make a well in the centre. Put the milk, whole egg, egg yolk and oil in a jug and lightly beat together with a small whisk. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the well, whisking as you pour, and drawing in the flour very gradually until you have a smooth batter. Transfer back into the jug. Alternatively, put all the ingredients into a food processor and whiz until smooth.

To cook the pancakes, use a non-stick 18cm (7”) pan for best results. Put the pan on a medium high heat until there is a slight haze coming from it. Trickle in a little oil then pour in about 2 tablespoons of batter, quickly tilting the pan so the batter evenly coats the bottom of the pan.

Cook for about 20-30 seconds or until the liquid batter has set and the pancake is golden brown. Loosen the edges of the pancake with a palette knife, give the pan a little shake to loosen it and either flip the pancake or turn it over with the palette knife, then cook for a further 20 seconds.

Fold the pancakes loosely onto a plate, drizzle with Lyle’s Golden Syrup and serve with lemon wedges if desired. Continue to cook the rest of the pancakes in the same way.

DO AHEAD: To make ahead of time stack the pancakes between small squares of parchment paper as you make them and leave to cool. Reheat briefly in a non-stick pan set over a moderate heat for a few seconds.

CHOCOLATE PANCAKES WITH CHEESECAKE FILLING Makes 8-12 P

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30 3 115g plain flour

250g carton ricotta cheese

1 tbsp cocoa powder

3 tbsp Tate & Lyle Fairtrade Caster Sugar

300ml full fat milk 2 large eggs 25g butter, melted Extra melted butter or vegetable oil for frying

100g chocolate chips, white, milk or dark chocolate 3 tbsp double cream Lyles Squeezy Syrup Chocolate

Sift the flour and cocoa into a large bowl, and make a hallow in the centre. Whisk the milk and eggs together then gradually into the centre, whisking as you pour, continue whisking until you have a smooth batter, then whisk in the melted butter. Alternatively put all the ingredients into a food processor or blender and whizz until smooth.

To cook the pancakes, use a non-stick 18cm/7inch pan for best results. Heat the pan on medium heat until there is a slight haze coming from it. Brush the pan with butter or oil then pour in abut 70ml of batter, use a small ladle if available. Tilt the pan so the batter evenly covers the bottom of the pan.

Cook for about 1 minute or until the liquid batter has set and the pancake is golden. Loosen the edges of the pancake with a spatula and give a little shake – it should come loose and move in the pan. Either flip the pancake or turn it over using a fish slice, then cook for a further minute. Continue to cook the rest of the batter in the same way.

Heat the oven to 190C/170Cfan/gas 5.

To make the filling, mix together the ricotta, Tate & Lyle caster sugar, chocolate drops and cream. Spread the filling over half of each pancake then fold into quarters, arrange in a greased ovenproof dish.

Cook in oven for 8-10 minutes. Serve the pancakes with plenty of Lyle’s Squeezy Syrup Chocolate The months recipes were all made using Lyle’s Golden Syrup.

For more Lyle’s Golden Syrup pancake recipes, you can visit www.lylesgoldensyrup.com/recipes/ BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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APPETITE

WORDS | Anne Berry | The Wine Cellar

Pairing

THE SUBJECT OF MATCHING FOOD AND WINE IS AN INTERESTING ONE AND LEADS TO LONG DEBATE.

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ome say drink the wines you like with the food you enjoy.

I, too, am a believer in this to a certain extent as there is not a lot of point spending money on food or wine if you are not going to enjoy them. You will only end up feeling disappointed and cheated. There are, however, a few guidelines worth bearing in mind next time you are selecting wine to match your food and vice versa.

Imagine drinking a Pinot Grigio with a fillet steak! The full flavour of the steak will completely dominate and the wine will taste of nothing. Equally, pair your favourite Australian Shiraz with a plain grilled lemon sole and you will not even taste the fish at all! The traditional practice of red wine with meat and white wine with fish is a good basic place to start and there is certainly an element of truth in this, but balancing the flavours and characteristics is actually the most important factor when finding the perfect partnership.

When it comes to balancing the two, there are a number of factors to consider.

One important factor is the acidity. If you are serving a dish that is rich, oily or slightly tart, a wine with crisp acidity

will cut through the richness. Equally a dish containing sharp ingredients will harmonise with wines of a similar tartness. Dishes containing capers, leeks or tomatoes require a wine with matching acidity otherwise they will taste flat alongside it. Tomatoes are a notoriously difficult ingredient to pair with a wine, but generally work well with Italian red wines. Indigenous Italian grape varieties such as Sangiovese and Barbera have naturally high acidity and would make a perfect pairing with a tomato based pasta sauce. Try the Ceppi Storici Barbera d’Asti at £8.75.

Another factor is sweetness. An off dry wine can make a perfect accompaniment to a spicy meal. The fruitiness in the wine can alleviate the burning sensation that can be caused by certain ingredients in the dish.

Next time you are cooking a spicy chicken or fish dish, try pairing it with the fruity Invivo Pinot Gris from New Zealand £13.95. With its peach, pear and floral character and a hint of

spice, it will make a delicious combination, bringing out all the spicy flavours of the food and the fruity flavours of the wine.

When it comes to desserts the golden rule is to serve a wine that is sweeter than the dessert. Get this wrong and your eagerly anticipated dessert wine could taste horribly tart.

With chocolate, coffee or caramel dessert a fortified wine, such as Ramos Pinto 10 year old Tawny Port (£16.95 for a 500ml bottle) will work well but with a citrus or tropical fruit based dessert, try a late-harvest wine. Tabali Reserva Late Harvest Muscat, which, at £6.45 for a half bottle, is great value would be delicious with a lemon syllabub or an apricot tart.

In conclusion, drink a wine that you enjoy with food that you enjoy, but bear the above in mind, experiment a little and your dining experience could be enhanced.

THE WINE CELLAR • TENNIS ROAD • DOUGLAS • L • EMAIL: anne@thewinecellar.im

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

TRAVEL

TRAVEL

EXTRAORDINARY DESTINATIONS

WORDS Viv Pallot PHOTOS Moz Scott

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

TRAVEL

NEXT TIME YOU’RE FRANTICALLY SEARCHING FOR AN ICE CUBE TO POP INTO YOUR PIMM’S, CONSIDER THIS: NINETY PER CENT OF ALL THE WORLD’S ICE IS CONTAINED IN THE ICE SHEETS OF ANTARCTICA. NO SHORTAGE THERE THEN! Almost the entire continent is covered by ice – only about 2% is completely ice-free so it’s a hostile environment for all but the hardiest of species. Antarctica is also the coldest, windiest and most desolate place on the planet.

So why would you want to visit this oftforgotten seventh continent that we didn’t even know existed two hundred years ago?

The very remoteness of Antarctica has its own special appeal and while it’s never likely to feature on the backpackers’ trail, it has become of the last unspoiled frontiers on the visitor map.

If you’re prepared to accept its challenging accessibility issues and able to dig deep into your pockets, Antarctica is a destination that will reward you with aweinspiring scenery and an experience of one of the most pristine nature reserves in the world. Most visitors agree that Antarctica surpasses all expectations and all previous travel experiences.

“Antarctica was amazing,” enthuses writer Moz Scott, who visited with her partner, Philip, earlier this year, “It was the beauty of the place, rather than the cold, that made me shiver!

“

A LW A YS H A V E YO U R BINOCULARS AND C A M E R A A T H A N D, E V E N IN THE SHIP’S DINING ROOM - WHALES AND ALBATROSSES DON’T APPEAR ON SCHEDULE!

”

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

“The pristine landscape, the colours and sound of the ice … the way in which penguins and seals interact with their environment, they all took our breath away.”

According to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, visitor numbers are set to climb to an unprecedented 40,000 this season, similar to Sark’s in summer time. This year in particular, many heading south to Antarctica are keen to pay homage to audacious explorer, Ernest Shackleton, exactly one hundred years after his arrival.

Yet it’s all carefully controlled so as not to spoil the environment – visitors must even disinfect their boots before setting foot on Antarctic soil. Fortunately, preserving the landscape is a priority too for the 29 nationstates that share ownership of the continent.

Because it’s carved up so diversely, there is no official language. There are no mainland airports, no television and no supermarkets either. There are, however, scientific research centres and whaling stations, where most nations adopt their own local time zones.

This icy wilderness is an ideal place for scientists to research the various warmblooded species such as wales, dolphins, seals and petrels (which include albatrosses) that thrive in Antarctic summer.

Unlike the northern Arctic, there are no polar bears here, nor any indigenous peoples. Conversely, there are 21 varieties of penguin in Antarctica but none in the Arctic.

Observing these creatures up close and personal is one of the main draws for visitors.

“Penguins are astonishing, I could watch them for hours!” says Moz, “They glide and jump out of the water like dolphins. It is awe-inspiring how the various species have adapted so well to an environment that a human would find challenging.”

When winter begins with the sun setting in March and not rising again until October, clearly the best time to visit is the Austral summer, with December and January being peak season.

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TRAVEL

“

FROM THE WATER, ONE IS REWARDED W I T H M A G N I F I C E N T C LO S E - U P V I E WS O F T H E S C U L P T U R E D S H A D E S - O F - B LU E I C E B E R G S A N D O F T H E E X T R A O R D I N A RY W I L D L I F E A B OV E A N D B E LOW T H E S E A

”

You’ll need to bring plenty of warm layers even so. Temperatures can plummet without warning. And don’t forget the sunscreen - reflection from snow and ice can do some serious damage when there’s almost round-the-clock sunlight coupled with a thin ozone layer. Another item you might need though is anti-seasick patches or tablets (to avoid resorting to a diet of ginger ale and dry crackers!).

The Antarctic waters are notorious for being some of the roughest seas in the world but with no airports - other than on the islands - boats are an essential mode of transport, ranging from the various sizes of cruise ships to the small, rubber Zodiacs launched for onshore expeditions.

From the water, one is rewarded with magnificent close-up views of the sculptured shades-of-blue icebergs and of the extraordinary wildlife above and below the sea.

“Always have your binoculars and camera at hand, even in the ship’s dining room whales and albatrosses don’t appear on schedule!” advises Moz.

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If you’re brave enough to take a dip into the near-freezing water, some cruises offer the opportunity to experience this while tethered to the boat’s safety ropes, ready to whisk you out at the first signs of any problems.

On the longer cruises (three weeks is currently the maximum), optional activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, kayaking and even barbecuing and overnight camping on the Antarctic peninsula. No hotel chains or mass development will be allowed to turn the pristine landscape into another Dubai just yet. Thankfully.

If you’ve an appreciation for the aweinspiring beauty of nature, its amazing wildlife and the great outdoors, Antarctica will significantly enhance your life’s experience. You will, however, need a basic level of fitness for overland treks offered even on the briefest of trips if you’re to take advantage of the total experience. Another benefit? You may even come back fitter than when you left!

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Isle of Man | Home & Interiors | February 2015

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

HOME

Northern Star ul yn

ea o

T Ramsey.

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The excellent local primary school and grammar school are both within walking distance and Ramsey’s main shopping centre, swimming pool and popular beach are just minutes away by car.

Like all Heritage Homes properties, these homes are traditionally built with the highest levels of energy efficiency available today, and feature well-planned flexible areas for living and entertaining, high quality kitchens with appliances and stylish, contemporary bathrooms.

UY UY ER ERS S

P F LP HEL HE

O B RL OCAL HOME O B RL E OCAL HOM

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the Housing Customer Services Team, Department of Health and Social Care on .

CHOICE ME S O CHOICE ME S O

E E EMHEM CH C

For full details visit: www.gov.im/

FIRSFTIRST H H

2 bedroom ‘Mannin’ show home

HOMES FROM £172,950 INCLUDING: • Stunning German kitchens • Full range of kitchen appliances • Luxurious bathrooms with tiled walls • Landscaped front garden Call 615000 for details or visit our Sales & Marketing Suite, 22 - 24 Victoria St, Douglas.

2 bedroom ‘Mannin’ show home - £187.950

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2 bedroom ‘Mannin’ show home - £187,950

SHOW HOME OPEN 11am to 4pm every weekend

Top quality German kitchen and appliances in 2 bedroom ‘Mannin’ - from £172,950

Contact us on 615000 or visit DANDARA.COM BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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C U B B I N F I N E

&

F U R N I T U R E

B R E G A Z Z I •

I N T E R I O R

Tel +44 (1624) 617788. Tromode Estate, Douglas, Isle of Man.

D E S I G N

www.cubbinandbregazzi.com

N E W S H O W R O O M L O C AT E D AT C U B B I N & B R E G A Z Z I

NORTHERN ISLAND

ISLE OF MAN

THE TILE REFINERY 1 1 - 1 9 B LY T H E S T R E E T B E L F A S T, N O R T H E R N I R E L A N D BT12 5HU TEL: 028 90232136

CUBBIN & BREGAZZI SHOWROOM U N I T 1 8 T R O M O D E I N D . E S TAT E DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN, IM4 4QB TEL: 01624 617788

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FEATURED PROPERTY

BALLABRIDSON PARK, BALLASALLA 4 0 000 Superb views -

2

4

2

4

. Spacious Light Dormer Bungalow, Adjacent Plot/Garden . Sea & Rural Views . Lounge, Dining Room, Kitchen & Utility Room . 4 Bedrooms (1 En-Suite), Bathroom . Gardens & Vegetable Garden . Detached Double Garage HARMONY HOMES, PORT ERIN OFFICE T: 835252 www.harmonyhomes.co.im

KERROWGARROW ROAD, GREEBA 31 00 Beautiful Barn Conversion -

1

2

2

4

. Detached Stone Barn Conversion in Idyllic Semi Rural Situation . Charming ‘Upside Down’ Accommodation . Spacious Open Plan Living Room/Dining Kitchen . 2 Double Bedrooms (1 En-Suite), Bathroom . Utility/Study Room . Lawned Gardens to Front and Side . Generous Parking Area for Approx 6 Cars . No Onward Chain, Open to Offers

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HARMONY HOMES, DOUGLAS OFFICE T: 616200 www.harmonyhomes.co.im ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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Brighten up your bathroom and make a real splash AMBER RANGE

TOWELS

Large Striped Caddy blue/beige £5

Facecloths 2 pack £1.50 Towels from £5 Bath Mats from £9

SILVER MOSAIC Mosaic Tumbler 10 Mosaic Soap Dispenser £8 Mosaic SOAK Word 1 Mosaic Glass and Holder . 0 Mosaic Towel Ring

AMBER RANGE Ceramic Soap Dish 1.

Ceramic Tumbler 1.

Ceramic Soap Dispenser £2.25

AMBER RANGE Free Standing Storage Unit white/bamboo £19 COASTAL RANGE PRODUCTS AVAILABLE FROM SHOPRITE LIVING, CHESTER STREET, DOUGLAS AND MARINA LANE, PORT ERIN BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Striped 4 Drawer Unit blue/beige £44 Laundry Hamper white/willow 1 Retro Pedal Bin £9 Retro Toilet Brush Holder

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PROPERTY NEWS

HOME

The New House Purchase Assistance Scheme

Britain's most expensive flat goes on sale for £10m

Words by: Tim Groves of Black Grace Cowley

The one-bedroom apartment, in Knightsbridge, costs 56 times the average house price in England and Wales and has been dubbed the 'ultimate pied-aterre'

The Isle of Man Government launched a new, updated House Purchase Assistance Scheme (HPAS) on 31 July 2014, replacing the successful but arguably out-dated predecessor. This new scheme is a little different, though; it’s all about ‘Shared Equity’. So, before I summarise the opportunities, I’d like to more clearly define the term.

Shared Equity schemes give you a loan that acts as part of the deposit on a property. You will still need to take out a mortgage on the remainder of the property price, but because the loan counts towards your deposit you may be able to take out a mortgage where you might otherwise struggle. Legally, you own 100% of the property.

The new scheme offers two distinct pathways to home ownership: 1. First Home Fixed 2. First Home Choice The eligibility criteria applied to the ‘First Home Fixed’ side of the scheme focuses on those who are most in need of assistance, whereas ‘First Home Choice’ allows for increased income/ salary levels and purchase prices to enable greater flexibility in purchasing properties on the open market. This is the crucial difference; to enable open market properties to be purchased with assistance in the form of a ‘shared equity’ stake. The government has replaced the Grant and Top Up loan assistance with the purchase of an equity stake in the property. All applicants must provide a deposit equivalent to 5% of the purchase price as a condition of the department providing assistance.

In summary, the changes brought in provide: . . . .

Broader eligibility criteria Higher maximum purchase price up to £190,000 Wider purchase choice Up to 30% contribution by way of a ‘shared equity’ stake . 5% deposit required For more information about how you can qualify for assistance, or for general advice on the scheme, feel free to contact Black Grace Cowley on 645 555 or via info@blackgracecowley.com.

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But there will be no room for guests at the property, which is regarded as the finest one-bedroom home in the world’s most expensive apartment block.

The lower level of the duplex apartment is the sleeping area and boasts a huge double bedroom with en-suite bathroom.

Upstairs is for socialising, with the area dominated by an openplan living and dining room. There is also a separate toilet.

It works out at £6,300 per square foot and is £4.3 million more than the next most expensive one-bedroom property in the capital.

And while large properties have sold for this £ per sq/ft price before, figures from LonRes, which tracks the property market, has a top one-bedroom price of £5,035 per sq/ft. whoever buys the flat will put a big smile on George Osborne’s face as they hand over £1.1 million in stamp duty.

They also have to pay £2,000 per year in ground rent along with a £32,000 annual service charge.

One Hyde Park was designed by Richard Rogers at Rogers, Stirk, Harbour and Partners.

It opened in 2009 and is made up of 86 apartments with the interior designed by Candy and Candy.

Residents get 24-hour SAS-trained security, an in-house maid service, same day laundry and dry cleaning, room service from the Mandarin hotel and a private temperature controlled wine store.

The development also has “unmatched leisure and entertainment facilities” which includes a private spa, 21-metre swimming pool, sauna, steam room, squash court and cinema.

The most expensive apartment to sell in One Hyde Park was a penthouse, which was bought for £140 million last year.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

CREATE YOUR WORLD

@

Showroom open Monday to Saturday 9am - 5pm

Isle of Man Business Park, Cooil Road, Douglas

Call today on: 01624 625229 philipcharles.im

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

The German Kitchen Centre Directions: Take the 2nd right after the Falcons Nest Hotel

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

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

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FEATURED PROPERTY

THE FAIRWAY, ONCHAN 3 0 Spacious Detached Bungalow 2

3

2

4

. Spacious Detached Bungalow . 3 Bedrooms (1 En-Suite Bathroom & Dressing Room) . Shower Room . Large Lounge/Dining Room . Conservatory, Cloakroom . Kitchen, Utility Room . Integral Double Garage . Front & Rear Gardens HARMONY HOMES, DOUGLAS Tel: 616200 www.harmoneyhomes.co.im

EAST

UAY PEEL

Stunning views -

3 1

2

2

00

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. Apartment With Stunning Views Across The Marina & Peel Castle . Fully Fitted Kitchen & Open Plan Through To Lounge . 2 Double Bedrooms, 1 En-Suite & Separate Bathroom . Sun Balcony To Both Bedrooms . Secure Ground Level Parking Space . Potential For Holiday Lettings

HARMONY HOMES, PEEL Tel: 845252 www.harmoneyhomes.co.im

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

stunning homes

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Occupying an enviable position adjacent to Douglas marina these 2 & 3 bedroom award winning apartments are minutes away from the town centre, bars and restaurants.

THE OAK

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QUAY WEST

A spacious 4 bedroom detached home at Reayrt ny Cronk with single garage, study, breakfast/kitchen, dining room and sunroom with bi fold doors leading into the garden.

PE

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READY TO MOVE IN

P ER OR IN T

LE A XD

THE CEDAR

THE SILVERDALE

THE OAK

MAINE COURT

£589,950

£544,950

£454,950

FROM £397,950

The last 5 bedroom detached home available at Reayrt ny Cronk. Features separate dining room and sunroom.

A 4 bedroom detached home with garage. Includes light fittings, carpets, wallpaper, soft furnishings and fire surround.

Y SE M RA

SE M RA

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This impressive 4 bedroom detached home features a separate dining room, study and family room at Reayrt ny Cronk.

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£489,950

PE

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£264,950

Award winning 4 bedroom, three storey homes, minutes from the beach and Port Erin town centre.

To find out more please contact our Sales Team:

01624 615000 iomsales@dandara.com

THE ASH

THE ASH

THE MANNIN

£235,000

£194,950

£187,950

A 3 bedroom mews home with living room at the rear of the property with double doors leading into the garden.

A 3 bedroom mews home with living room at the rear of the property with double doors leading into the garden.

or visit dandara.com

A 2 bedroom mews home.

Includes light fittings, carpets, wallpaper, soft furnishings and landscaped gardens.

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

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Shirrah-Ny-Ree Ballajora Hill, Ballajora, Maughold - £895,000

S

HIRRAH-NY-REE IS LOCATED IN THE POPULAR VILLAGE OF MAUGHOLD. SET IN APPROXIMATELY 2.5 ACRES OF LANDSCAPED GARDEN AND PADDOCK THE PROPERTY ENJOYS FABULOUS RURAL AND DISTANT SEA VIEWS AND VIEWS OVER TO MAUGHOLD HEAD. APPROACHED VIA A SWEEPING DRIVEWAY SHIRRAH-NY-REE IS IN AN IDYLLIC RURAL LOCATION BUT ONLY 5 MINUTES BY CAR TO THE HISTORIC TOWN OF RAMSEY AND ONLY 20 MINUTES FROM THE ISLAND’S CAPITAL DOUGLAS WITH ACCESS TO SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS.

This well proportioned property enjoys spacious reception rooms with plenty of space for entertaining. The property was extended approximately four and half years ago and has a new Magnet kitchen, new master bedroom, en-suite and dressing room. There are a further four bedrooms (2 En-Suite) and a modern family bathroom. All the principle living

and bedroom accommodation present views over the landscaped gardens, surrounding rural areas and distant sea views. There is an integral double garage and further parking off road for several vehicles. The paddock offers space to keep a pony, grow vegetables or as an additional play area for children.

Estate Agents for the 21st Century...

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www.manxmove.im

Manxmove | Qualified Estate Agents | Isle of Man Tel: 01624 61 99 66 | E-mail: info@manxmove.im | www.manxmove.im

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HOME

FEATURED PROPERTY

NEW BUILD 3 BEDROOM MEWS REAYRT NY CRONK PEEL Superb value for money

1

3

23 000

1

VIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. PRICE INCLUDES: • Luxury kitchen by top German manufacturer with stone worktops and appliances • Superb tiled bathroom • Stylish fitted wardrobes • ALL carpets, flooring • ALL window treatments • ALL light fittings

Completed in 2014, this brand new 3 bedroom family home is situated in a quiet cul-de-sac within this popular development on the outskirts of Peel, close to all local amenities. Offering superb value for money, the property comes complete with all light fittings, curtains, blinds, floor and wall coverings, a superb fitted kitchen with stone worktops and quality appliances, tiled bathrooms, fitted wardrobes and the highest levels of finish throughout. On the ground floor, the kitchen-dining room is situated at the front of the property, with the living room at the rear, from which double doors provide access to a patio and the garden. Upstairs there are two double bedrooms, one with fitted wardrobes, a single bedroom and a fantastic family bathroom.

HERITAGE HOMES, DOUGLAS TEL: 615000 www.dandara.com

DEANSGATE, LUCERNE COURT, DOUGLAS

£1.495m

Sought after location 4

5

6

This superb 5 bedroomed detached executive family home occupies a very private position in this highly soughtafter location only a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Douglas. Offering an excellent level of accommodation throughout, Deansgate has a generous number of reception rooms perfect for entertaining and relaxing including a lounge, family room, dining room, large conservatory, dining-kitchen and spacious double-height entrance hall with feature galleried landing. This home also includes a study home office, separate utility room and entrance porch with cloakroom and downstairs W.C. to complete this generous ground floor space.

VIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: • Spacious double height entrance hall with galleried landing • Formal lounge • Family room • Formal dining room • Dining-kitchen • 5 double bedrooms – all en-suite • Study/home office • Conservatory • Landscaped front and rear gardens HERITAGE HOMES, DOUGLAS • Triple garage TEL: 615000 • Sea views www.dandara.com

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Take Comfort from Nature with

Pure Natural Fillings

Harrison

TAILOR MADE SINCE 1889

Double Divan (135cm) MRP £1099

OUR PRICE

£899

King Divan (135cm) MRP £1199

OUR PRICE

£999

Maestro 7000 Pocket Sprung Divan exclusively from Paradise & Gell Following on from our successful winter sale, we have been able to secure a further limited stock of the Harrison Maestro 7000 Divan Set. Crafted with the finest natural fillings and fabric, this luxurious divan features a non turn mattress with 7000 pocket springs sitting on a reinforced base with two large storage drawers. Available from stock with FREE All Island Delivery & Assembly.

Paradise & Gell

................................................................

The home of top brand quality furniture!

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FEATURED PROPERTY

CROSSAG ROAD, BALLASALLA ÂŁ845,000 Delightful private garden -

5

6

5

4

Lovely six bedroom characterful and spacious residence which has been extended, situated close to schools, the airport and village amenities. The property comprises of two reception rooms, a sun room, study, games room, modern fitted kitchen, two utility rooms and a cloakroom. Two of the bedrooms have en-suites, there is a family bathroom and also a toilet. The property includes a storeroom and barbecue which is housed indoors. There is a detached two story stone building which is currently being used as a store, a long driveway with ample parking and also pavioured parking for two vehicles. Natural gardens and wood surround the property along with a delightful private garden. Oil fired central heating and UPVC double glazed throughout.

HARMONY HOMES, PORT ERIN T: 835252 www.harmonyhomes.co.im

LINKS CLOSE, PEEL ÂŁ495,000 Spacious detached bungalow 5

6

5

4

A spacious detached bungalow adjacent to a prestigious golf club which established in 1895. The property is situated within walking distance to all village amenities, comprising a good sized lounge, dining room and conservatory enjoying views over the golf course. The kitchen which includes appliances has a pleasant outlook on the front garden and there is also a utility room. There are four bedrooms, two of which have en-suites and a family bathroom. The property comes with two garages (one currently used as a store room) and a boiler room. Externally there are delightful well maintained gardens, a greenhouse, timber shed and barbecue area.

HARMONY HOMES, PEEL T:845252 www.harmonyhomes.co.im

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Free Calls!

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

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

Terms and Conditions apply. See website for details.

10 Crosby Terrace, Douglas 5 Harcroft Road, Saddlestone, Douglas Cobblers Goose, Switchback Road, Peel 5 Manor Park, Onchan

Local properties at your fingertips www.blackgracecowley.com 5 Harcroft Road, Saddlestone, Douglas

10 Crosby Terrace, Douglas

£280,000

• • • • • •

£525,000

Well presented, spacious townhouse in convenient location Spacious Living and Dining Room, modern Kitchen Diner Master Bedroom with Dressing Area and En Suite 4 further Bedrooms, Family Bathroom, WC, Laundry Room Paved rear yard, uPVC double glazing, OFCH Excellent order throughout

• • • • • •

5 Manor Park, Onchan

Cobblers Goose, Switchback Road

£895,000

• • • • • •

£1,250,000

Outstanding detached house set in private mature grounds Replacement Kitchen, Bathrooms & Everest uPVC double glazing W.C., 3 Receptions, Study, Kitchen, Utility, Master with En Suite Guest Room with Dressing Room & En Suite 2 further Bedrooms and Family Bathroom, OFCH 1 acre of lawns, orchard, Greenhouse & Summerhouse ictoria treet

Outstanding family home in popular residential location 3 Receptions, Study, Kitchen, Snug, Utility 4 Bedrooms, En Suite, walk-in wardrobe & Shower Room Guest Annexe with Wash Room Well-kept gardens, double Garage, OFCH uPVC double glazing

ouglas sle o

an

01624 645555 BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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Spacious detached house in highly sought after location Large plot with easily managed gardens & extensive parking Hall, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Conservatory Breakfast Room, Study, Utility, Store & Games Room Master Bedroom with Dressing Room & En Suite 3 further Bedrooms with 2 En Suites, Integral Garage

Woodlands House, Lower Foxdale

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Period detached residence dating back to 1906 providing characterful and spacious family accommodation arranged over 4 floors Situated in a convenient village location which provides easy access to the south, west and east of the Island Sympathetically restored and extended by the present owners and offered for sale in first class decorative order throughout Stunning 28’ Dining Kitchen, Dining Room, spacious 23’ Lounge with staircase down to the lower ground floor Family Room & Cloakroom

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£695,000

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Integral Studio and Workshop providing potential for 2 integral Garages with up and over doors still in place and Utility On the first floor there are 3 double Bedrooms, 2 benefitting from En Suite facilities along and Family Shower Room On the second floor there are 2 further double Bedrooms and Family Bathroom Efficient oil fired central heating system is installed together with double glazing An internal inspection is highly recommended in order to appreciate this fine property

9 Athol Street, Peel, Isle of Man, IM5 1HE

01624 845696

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FEATURED PROPERTY

BAY VIEW ROAD, PORT ST MARY £1,900,000 Uninterrupted Sea & Costal Views -

6

6

3

4

. Gentleman’s Residence Built 1850, Having Uninterrupted Sea & Coastal Views . Private Access On To The Beach . Lounge, Dining Room, Cloakroom . Sun Room, Conservatory, Billiard Room, Games Room & Bar Area . Master Bedroom, Dressing Room & En-suite . 5 Further Bedrooms, 2 Family Bathrooms . Garage, Store, Cloakroom, Store Room, Car Port . Gardens & Patio Areas. The Plot Is Approx 2/3 Of An Acre . Plans For A Substantial Extension HARMONY HOMES, PORT ERIN OFFICE T: 835252 www.harmonyhomes.co.im

REAYRT NY CRONK, PEEL 4 0 000 Large Rear Garden -

3

4

3

4

. Spacious Kitchen/Breakfast Room Through To Sun Room . Fully Fitted Contemporary Kitchen By Top German Manufacturer . Separate Dining Room, Lounge, Study . 4 Bedrooms (2 En-suite), Bathroom . Large Rear Garden and Garage

HARMONY HOMES, PEEL OFFICE T: 845252 www.harmonyhomes.co.im

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BUSINESS

BUSINESS

BUSINESS NEWS

RL3 0 ’S LAGSHIP PRODUCTS QUANTUM AND PIMS ARE EVOLVING RL360° has announced some exciting changes to its flagship regular and single premium products, Quantum and PIMS, which came into effect on the 5 January 2015.

The move is part of the continuous drive to evolve and improve its products based on feedback from advisers and their clients.

The headline upgrades for Quantum are enhanced allocation premium bands up to 102% and more user friendly illustration outputs.

Director of Marketing Natalie Hall said: “We have been able to introduce these changes and make Quantum more attractive as a direct result of support for the product. In particular, the volume of Quantum business being written means we are now able to make the allocation rates even more competitive.”

CHIEF MINISTER ALLAN BELL VISITS BEST GROUP INTERNATIONAL Chief Minister Allan Bell recently called in on Nathan Cafearo and Peter Adamson at their Victoria Street offices to hear how these entrepreneurs have created success in difficult times and to meet and see for himself the people involved in the diverse areas of business operating within this hotspot.

Best Group International is a strategic Holding Company with interests in market leading professional, digital media, apparel and payroll companies.

Foxdale born Nathan Cafearo is more interested in the diversity of skills, enthusiasm and sharing of ideas to formal CV’s and Nathan and Peter would rather their colleagues find personal success in this environment than a more formal corporate structure.

The news follows the recent Quantum fund range enhancements, which included the addition of new asset classes such as healthcare and renewable energy funds. The company also negotiated a 6-month exclusive savings plan arrangement with Guinness Asset Management on their recently launched UCITS version of the Global Innovators fund. The new options have already attracted significant investment since their launch.

PIMS will see changes including the introduction of an 8-year establishment fee charging structure and conversion rate changes. The latter means that the minimum premium for Euro has reduced down to 60,000 from 80,000. And these changes come following the introduction of online dealing last year.

Find out more about RL360°’s products, which are available exclusively through financial advisers, by visiting www.rl360.com

Existing projects include the new Isle of Man based fashion house Windsor & Wales, led by Peter Adamson and fellow founders – the winter range of luxury clothing and accessories was launched in Genesis Gallery some months ago and has already appeared in Tynwald Mills. They exclusively use Manx and British components including a shoe range incorporating Manx Loaghtan Wool sourced from Laxey Woollen Mills and Windsor & Wales have an international following on Facebook.

Women Make Waves is the brain child of Brooke Cafearo focussed exclusively on the positive impact of women in todays world. www.womenmakewaves.co.uk has well over ten thousand active followers on Facebook.

Creative Buzz are Marketing Consultants and Graphic Designers for a number of outlets but specifically those elsewhere in the Group and the business ventures that have successfully flown the coup and established themselves elsewhere.

Chief Minister Allan Bell met everyone from I.T. apprentice Daniel O’Neil to old hand Eugene Lantry who is Chairman of the Isle of Man and UK Groups.

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EQUIOM TO DEMONSTRATE E-GAMING EXPERTISE AT ICE Equiom’s e-Gaming capability will be demonstrated at ICE Totally Gaming 2015 at the Excel, London in February 2015.

Taking place from February 3rd to 5th 2015, ICE Totally Gaming is one of the largest trade events in gaming and is expected to attract over 23,000 people over the three days.

The exhibition will feature representatives and exhibitors from the betting, bingo, casino, lottery, mobile, online and social gaming sectors from all across the globe and will play host to hundreds of new product launches.

Equiom’s e-Gaming team will be represented by Barry Smith, Adam Beighton and Sophie Campbell, who will be on hand to explain why committed operators choose the Isle of Man, as well as the benefits to be had from dual licenses in the Isle of Man and UK. In addition, a hot topic at this year’s show will be the Isle of Man Government’s introduction of Double Duty Relief, following the UK’s launch of Place of Consumption Tax. The Equiom team will be based on the Isle of Man Government stand, number N5-320.

To arrange an appointment with one of the team, please email Sophie Campbell: sophiecampbell@equiomgroup.com.

THERE’S GOBLINS IN THE HOUSE! The Counting House Group is pleased to announce its recent acquisition of a majority interest in Isle of Man based payment services provider Payment Goblin Ltd. While relatively new on the block, Payment Goblin has quickly established itself within the local eCommerce community as a trusted source of expert consultancy and a quality payment service provider. It helps high-street, online and mobile businesses around the world bank complete retail transactions with payments by

credit and debit cards, wallets and emerging payment types. It has quickly developed a strong network of banking partners and trusted intermediaries.

Amongst its offerings, Payment Goblin offers certain categories of UK based eCommerce merchants a simple online application process that can enable a business to be live and trading in just 10 minutes, empowering their customers with Visa, MasterCard, Maestro and American Express payment options.

More on this at: www.paymentgoblin.com

Our clients said: “Nedbank Private Wealth is a first class bank”* OUR BANKING, INVESTMENT AND FIDUCIARY SOLUTIONS ARE TAILORED TO CLIENT NEEDS

We always put our clients first, which is why we have held, for the past five years, the highest ever client satisfaction score for our speed of response* - and it’s why our clients say we’re a first class bank. To find out how our holistic approach and comprehensive product range can meet your wealth management needs, visit our website at www.nedbankprivatewealth.com or call us on 01624 645000. * Client satisfaction survey undertaken in 2013 by The Leadership Factor, the UK’s leading customer survey specialist.

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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 Supervision Commission. Registered office: St Mary’s Court 20 Hill Street Douglas Isle of Man. Nedgroup Trust (Jersey) Limited is regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

BUSINESS

IN THE NEWS

Aged 11 John went to Ballakermeen High School and Jerry to King William’s College.

John said: ‘We drifted apart then and went on to pursue our respective careers at university but by the mid-1980s we were back “home”, both having chosen to make an investment in the future of the Isle of Man. It was then that we discovered we’d qualified in the same year, 1984.

‘We couldn’t escape from each other - or from former Coroner Malcolm Kelly - because in 1992 the three of us joined forces to get what was then Age Concern Isle of Man, now Age Isle of Man, off the ground. We were all involved with the charity for five years, then Jerry left but I carried on for another 15 years.’

50 YEARS ON: JOHN COWAN AND JERRY CARTER In September 1963 a boy called Jerry started at St Joseph’s Convent of Mercy in Finch Road, Douglas. Then in April 1964 a boy called John joined the school and the two choirboys became firm friends…even though, according to John, ‘Jerry was six months cleverer.’

The convent may be no more and their school uniforms replaced by pinstriped suits but the friendship between advocate Jerry Carter and accountant John Cowan of Crowe Clark Whitehill has endured for 50 years.

There was a double cause for celebration, though, at the end of 2014 as it also marked 30 years since they qualified in their respective professions, Jerry with Kelly Luft and John with what was then Pannell Kerr Forster.

John left St Joseph’s to attend St Mary’s Roman Catholic School, then in Buck’s Road, to be joined one year later by Jerry. The pair were then in the first cohort of pupils when the ‘new’ St Mary’s opened in 1968 off Ballaquayle Road.

Reflecting on the past half decade Jerry said: ‘At St Mary’s primary school it’s fair to say we were probably two of the brightest pupils.’

‘Even though we excelled at dodging lessons,’ said John.

The friendship continued beyond the school curriculum. ‘Our teacher, Miss Leadley, whom many will recall, thought we were good influences on each other; we were something of a double act, writing and staging shows,’ said John.

ACSP LAUNCHES 2015 TAUGHT COURSES PROGRAMME The Association of Corporate Service Providers’ taught courses programme for 2015 is now available for booking.

The courses will be delivered, once again, by corporate governance training specialist Jo French, who has been working in partnership with the ACSP since 2004. They follow the successful format of previous years and along with AML and MLRO training include sessions on developments in fiduciary duties and liabilities, the SARs voluntary disclosure programme, effective company and trust administration, CSP risk management and corporate governance.

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The pair say they have seen big changes in the Island over the past 30 years. ‘Our generation’s been very lucky,’ said John. ‘Since then the Island’s seen some good times – the late 80s, mid-90s and early 2000s – as well as bad times. But now the Island – and the world – has changed and I doubt whether future generations will be able to derive quite the same level of enjoyment out of their careers as we had…and are still having.

‘Looking back we were driven and focused, striving tremendously hard for success and paying scant attention to the concept of work/life balance.’

‘Like so many of our generation, we only went home when the job was finished,’ said Jerry.

And when asked whether the Isle of Man is a better place now than 30 years ago, the pair offered an unequivocal ‘yes’.

‘We’ve so much shared history and a great deal to be grateful to the Isle of Man for, especially in terms of giving us a great start in life with a good education,’ said John.

Their friendship looks set to continue, ‘Even though I’ve had to deal with John being an Everton fan for so many years,’ said Jerry.

‘50 years on we’re still here and we’re still friends and if there were one piece of advice we would pass on it’s “Don’t take yourself too seriously.”’

Postscript: In 1969 John lent Jerry four pence, Jerry argued about the veracity of the loan…and at that moment their career paths were determined.

All courses will be at the Upper Hall, Loch Promenade Church, Douglas.

Prices remain unchanged at £50 per session for staff of ACSP members or associatemembers, £75 per session for non-members.

Full details of the schedule can be found at www.acsp.co.im.

Bookings: jofrenchACSP@jerseyibs.com.

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BUSINESS

APPLEBY ISLE O MAN LAWYERS RECOGNISED AS TRANSPORT LEADERS BY WHO’S WHO LEGAL Two lawyers at the Isle of Man office of international law firm Appleby have been recognised in the first edition of Who’s Who Legal: Transport, an independent assessment of the world’s top lawyers in the transport field.

Partners Faye Moffett, Corporate & Commercial Group Head, and Simon Cain, Isle of Man Corporate Finance Team Leader, have been recognised as leaders in aviation finance law.

Timothy Counsell, Head of Transport & Logistics sector at Appleby Bermuda, has also been recognised for his work in shipping law.

Faye said: ‘Simon and I are delighted to have been named as leaders in the transport field by such a well-respected publication.

‘These recognitions reflect our commitment to our clients and it is an honour for us, and for the entire Appleby Isle of Man team, to have our work in this sector recognised.’

Simon added: ‘These results are testament to the reputation of our office in the Isle of Man and the calibre of our team.

We are hugely grateful to our peers and clients for their recommendations and recognition of our services’ Who’s Who Legal: Transport identified leading lawyers from 533 firms across 76 countries following votes from clients and fellow private practitioners. The report addresses aviation law and its three distinct branches: contentious, finance and regulatory. The research also looks at key international trends in shipping law and their effect on the legal marketplace.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MINISTER OFFERS CONFIDENT OUTLOOK FOR 2015 The Minister for Economic Development Laurence Skelly MHK today offered a confident outlook for the Isle of Man’s economy. The Minister commented: 2014 was another good year for the economy with continued growth of around 3% and unemployment falling by nearly a quarter – and the prospects for 2015 are as good if not better.

I am conscious that not everyone has necessarily been feeling the benefits of this growth. Firstly, many workers have not seen their pay rise in real terms in recent years – this is common across most of the developed world.

‘Secondly, I am conscious that some news relating to Government changes necessary to help us balance our budget are raising concerns. However we must also be careful that we do not confuse Government’s budget with the performance of the economy which is growing at a rate that many other developed economies would be envious of. In this environment it is important we build and maintain confidence among investors, local businesses and residents.’

‘We are seeing real growth across our export-generating sectors and I believe that in 2015 local people will start to see the benefits of increased confidence in the local economy through increased earnings and further creation of new jobs.’

Read the full article at: www.whereyoucan.com

MANX TELECOM SHOWCASES WORLD CLASS EGAMING SOLUTIONS AT ICE EXPO Manx Telecom will be showcasing its world class eGaming solutions at the ICE Totally Gaming expo at London’s ExCel from February 3rd to 5th. It’s the world’s biggest eGaming expo and last year attracted more than 23,500 visitors. Organisers expect to match or exceed that number this year with gaming professionals travelling from over 100 jurisdictions, which illustrates the show’s global appeal. ICE covers eight gaming sectors – betting, bingo, casino, lottery, mobile, online, social and street – making it the only event at which the different worlds of gaming come together in one expo.

Manx Telecom will be represented at ICE by Account Managers Dan Walker and John Corrigan who will be on the Department of Economic Development’s eGaming team stand N5-320. Manx Telecom Sales Director, Fergal McKenna,commented: “ICE is the industry’s premier forum for networking, socialising, learning and doing business–so attending the expo is an important part of our strategy to explore new opportunities and build upon our already impressive portfolio of clients.”

For more information go to www.icetotallygaming.com and www.manxtelecom.com/egaming

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APPOINTMENTS

EDGEWATER ASSOCIATES LIMITED APPOINTS SANDRA CARDWELL AS MANAGING DIRECTOR The Island’s largest based independent financial advisers, who specialise in wealth management, retirement planning, mortgages and general insurance for personal and corporate clients, has announced today that Sandra Cardwell has been appointed Managing Director.

Sandra Cardwell has over 20 years’ experience as a leading independent financial adviser for personal, corporate and international clients on their financial planning and banking needs. Prior to becoming part of the Edgewater team, Sandra worked in a number of senior roles within international and private banking and is now a highly respected figure within the financial advisory industry. Sandra joined Edgewater Associates Limited in 2008, becoming Sales Director in 2011. She holds the Chartered Insurance Institute Diploma in Financial Services (DipPFS), is a member of the Institute of Directors and is working towards the Diploma in Company Direction.

Work / life balance is an essential part of Sandra’s ethos. This is evidenced by the strength and diversity of skill-set in the teams built around her and in her recent transformation from a total ‘non-athlete’ to completing her first half-marathon in Stockholm in September2014, with her next goal to complete the Liverpool halfmarathon in June 2015 in under 2 hours.

NEW PROGRAMME MANAGER JOINS MANX CHARITY UNIOR ACHIEVEMENT

TYNWALD MILITARY LIAISON OFFICERS APPOINTED The Office of the Clerk of Tynwald has appointed LieutenantCommander Chris Bland Tynwald military liaison officer and retired WO2 Kerry Greaves deputy Tynwald military liaison officer.

As military liaison officer Lieutenant-Commander Bland, supported

by Mr Greaves, will be responsible for planning, communicating and co-ordinating arrangements with members of the Armed Forces serving at the Tynwald Day ceremony at St John’s.

Mr Greaves, who served with The Rifles for 25 years, relocated with his wife two years ago to the Island where he is landlord of The Bridge Inn in Laxey. He said: ‘I am delighted to have been appointed Tynwald deputy military liaison officer and pleased to be able to apply the skills I acquired during my time with the Army to support serving personnel at St John’s in whatever way I can.’

Clerk of Tynwald Roger Phillips said: ‘Lieutenant-Commander Bland and Mr Greaves have experience and professionalism, which combined with their conversance with ceremony and tradition, will be invaluable in preserving and developing our national day.’

MM&C EXPANDS INTO UK MARKET

Stephanie Stock has joined Junior Achievement Isle of Man as programme manager.

Working alongside her fellow programme manager Joy Spence, Stephanie will be coordinating volunteers and helping deliver a range of Junior Achievement programmes in schools, designed to develop young people’s skills for the workplace, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.

Stephanie is no stranger to the Junior Achievement team.

She previously worked with chief executive Sue Cook and Joy Spence at Hamblin recruitment agency and has also worked in the finance sector and at The Children’s Centre.

Originally from Liverpool Stephanie has lived in the Isle of Man for 25 years. She is a former Brownie guider and, away from the office and the classroom, has a keen interest in Manx heritage and works at Manx National Heritage’s Rushen Abbey site.

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MM&C – the Island’s leading marketing and communications agency – is extending its operational reach as part of a strategy to expand into the UK market. In addition to staff based at its HQ in Douglas, MM&C now has key personnel based in London and Glasgow.

London-based Creative Director Alistair Audsley has a wealth of brand and campaign experience with an international scope having worked with blue chip clients in London, Moscow, Singapore and Dubai. He is also an accomplished screenwriter and film producer.

Glasgow-based eBusiness Marketing Director Mark McGuinness has more than 25 years’ experience in the online arena. He has held senior marketing director roles with public and private sector companies in sectors which push the boundaries of online marketing, and is an expert on eGaming and gaming technology.

To find out more about MM&C go to www.mmc.co.im

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

ACTIVE

SPORT

ALL THINGS EQUESTRIAN

HAPPY NEW YEAR, I HOPE YOU ALL HAD A LOVELY CHRISTMAS. FOR MY FIRST ARTICLE OF 2015 WE’RE GOING TO DO A LITTLE TIME TRAVELLING, BUT ONLY BACK TO THE START OF DECEMBER.

WORDS | Hannah Goodby

IN THE RUN UP TO CHRISTMAS, DESPITE THE HECTIC PRESENT SHOPPING, I TOOK SOME TIME OUT TO GIVE SOMETHING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY. I had been attempting to do a joint demonstration with my friend and fellow equestrian Jo Howie for a while. But after trying to get our schedules together for the best part of 2014, we finally had a slot on the 6 December. Jo runs her own Equine Therapy business and is trained & qualified in equine sports massage, soft tissue mobilisation, stretching, cross fibre techniques and direct pressure techniques.

jumping would add additional spectacle to proceedings. The idea was to convey some of the science and mechanics but with a rider’s perspective in terms of feel and how to go about warming up and practically exercising key muscles for jumping.

As part of her work Jo demonstrates how a horse’s anatomy functions, and she does this by painting the muscles and skeleton on to the horse. The result is a hugely impressive sight.

With horses playing such a big part in our lives, we imagined how things might have been different if we hadn’t had the opportunity to be around them from an early age; something that we both found difficult. So to be a child suffering with a serious illness, one that prevents them from having the chance to realise their dreams is just heart-breaking, and that’s why the work of Wish upon a Dream is so important. To be able to give a seriously ill child the chance to realise their dreams means so much.

With my background as a rider and qualified coach, we felt that being able to paint up a horse and then do some show

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Naturally #wonderhorse, otherwise known as Monty’s Star, was thrilled at the prospect of performing in front of an audience and showing off his physique!

We decided early on that we really wanted to try and give something back to the Island, and this was especially true given the time of year. So that’s why we partnered with charity “Wish upon a Dream”. Speaking to Lesley Turnbull (founder) about the idea, we knew it was the right fit for us.

After much organisation, drafting in friends and family, the demo was a great success.

Despite it being a cold, wet and windy Saturday night, many of you came along to Mount

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it y ac groun as a ri er an ualifie coac e elt t at eing a le to paint up a orse an t en o so e s o u ping oul a additional spectacle to proceedings Rule Equestrian centre and enjoyed the mulled wine, hot pasty and mince pies donated by Ramsey Bakery.

Lots of other local businesses kindly donated some fantastic raffle prizes and although I can’t name them all here, details of each are on my Facebook page.

Overall we managed to raise £300 for Wish upon a Dream, and we loved every minute, so much so we can’t wait to do the next one!

RIGHT, I’M OFF TO RIDE MONTY AND SHED SOME CHRISTMAS POUNDS, SO UNTIL THE NEXT HORSEY FIX, PLEASE ENJOY THE EVENT PHOTOS COURTESY O C S PHOTOGRAPHY CALLUM STALEY .

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ISLE OF MAN CYCLEFEST PRESENTED BY ISLE O MAN BANK A MA OR NEW ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL ON THE ISLE OF MAN COMING MAY 201

A major new cycling and lifestyle festival is coming to the Isle of Man in May 2016 - ‘Isle of Man Cyclefest presented by Isle o Man Bank’. Situated in the heart of Ramsey, the spectacular Milntown Estate will be the festival hub for three days of epic cycling and family fun over the 13th, 14th and 15th May 2016.

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ursting into life on Friday evening, Isle of Man Cyclefest presented by Isle of Man Bank will let fans get up close and personal to the professional peloton as the frenetic Pearl Izumi Tour Series brings elbow-to-elbow street racing to Ramsey.

Along with racing for the kids and a mass participation ‘Big Ride’ with children’s hospice, Rebecca House, it will be a stunning opening for the weekend’s activities.

We are planning a content-rich experience which will allow us to effectively promote the festival for 52 weeks of the year to cyclists and non-cyclists both on and off island. We have a strong event team and, combined with the Island’s unique culture, environment and terrain, we can create a stand out, memorable experience that can capitalise on the growing popularity of cycling and make a significant contribution to the local economy.”

There will be a range of events for the amateur cyclist to test both their stamina and mettle. On the Saturday, Cyclefest’s mountain bike challenge, ‘The Battle of Sky Hill’, will pit the treaded-tyre warriors against the Island’s natural landscape, while road cyclists will have the opportunity to conquer part of the world-famous TT course with a lung-busting ‘Storm the Tower’ hill climb.

He continued: “We will be working together with the Isle of Man Cycling Association who are currently bidding to bring the British National Cycling Championships to the Isle of Man in 2016 which together with Cyclefest and the other established events in the Island’s annual calendar would make it an epic year for cycling on the Isle of Man.”

Sunday’s spectacular Sportive will provide competition for the masses and will be tough enough to go head to head with any event. Featuring thousands of metres of climbing crammed into the most picturesque route imaginable, it promises to be a fitting headline act. And for the less energetic, there will be a familyfriendly course to encourage all-comers out into the beautiful Manx countryside.

Isle of Man Cyclefest is not just for cyclists, however, and organisers are encouraging everyone to come and soak up the unique festival atmosphere in the grounds of the magnificent Milntown Estate.

There you will be able to enjoy activities for all the family, with fantastic live music and entertainment for kids large and small.

Delicious food and drink, including scrummy local produce and home bakes will fuel the day, and fascinating exhibits and displays will fire the imagination.

Manx Radio will bring the festival to life with a full event radio station including editorial coverage of all the sporting activities as well as all the news and activity from the festival weekend.

Paul Phillips of Isle of Man Cyclefest Ltd commented at the launch of the Festival: “Isle of Man Cyclefest presented by Isle of Man Bank is designed to be a mass-appeal festival and much more than just a sporting event.

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Bill Shimmins, Managing Director of Isle of Man Bank, title sponsors of Isle of Man Cyclefest said: “We are delighted to be the title sponsors of Isle of Man Cyclefest which we believe is one of the most exciting new events the Isle of Man will have seen for some time. The varied and inclusive programme of activities combined with the broad community appeal for both cyclists and non-cyclist attracted us to support and endorse this event. We look forward to a successful partnership working with the Isle of Man Cyclefest team to deliver an exceptional experience to residents and visitors.”

Cyclefest Ambassador Andrew Roche, a former professional cyclist, and multiple NatWest Island Games gold medalist added: “I am delighted to be working with Isle of Man Cyclefest as an ambassador. It is such an exciting project and anything that can help broaden the appeal of cycling is something that I want to be a part of. I will be working closely with the team behind this festival to make sure that we deliver a first- class event experience from the very first year.”

For more information visit: www.iomcyclefest.com

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HARDWARE

HARDWARE

FEBRUARY. A PERFECTLY GREAT MONTH PLAGUED BY THE ONE EVENT EVERY YEAR THAT IRONICALLY MAKES EVERY SINGLE MAN AND WOMAN FEEL MORE DISPIRITINGLY LONELY THAN SANDRA BULLOCK IN SPACE, OR INDEED ANYBODY THAT INEVITABLY SPENT TWO HOURS ALONE WATCHING GRAVITY IN CINEMAS.

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However, it would be too easy for me to project my hatred of others’ happiness onto these pages through scathing reviews of gadgets designed specifically for couples; I have instead chosen a different path this month, one of peace and, in the embers of the lingering Christmas spirit, love to all. After spending arduous hours rifling through what you can imagine was a diverse and intriguingly thought-provoking range of the internet’s suggestions for “gadgets for couples”, I have managed to compile a short list of familyfriendly technology that can aid your marital situations, only toying with the idea of sex very briefly (the least subtly veiled side steps of all time). Whilst the relationship-healing qualities of these gadgets

cannot be vouched for, they are more than capable of providing small sparks that might just bring you closer together. Hell, if any of them help you and your loved one to have a more exciting, amorous and altogether close Valentine’s day, I’ve done my job.

YANKO DESIGN NOTE TOASTER

RING ALARM CLOCK

So, settle down by the fire with your spouse, girlfriend or pet that is substituting as a human partner for the night and enjoy the revolutionary Hug Shirt, send ‘cute’ messages with the Digital Fountain Pen or even leave a love note on their toast with the Note Toaster. God, I’ve sunk low this month.

It’s a worldwide, undisputable fact. There is nothing better than breakfast in bed. Waking up to a plateful of bacon, eggs, sausages and toast, held by your partner who waits anxiously for you to open your eyes and give him/her the gratitude that they slaved away to achieve. There’s no way that this can get better, right? Wrong.

Imagine that same scene again, only this time, through some sort of wizardry, the toast that was so lazily slapped on the side of the plate, covered in running ketchup and whatever sauce it is that beans come in, is now engraved with a personalized message! Yes, you read that right, this toaster has the ability to ‘toast’ in whatever words you want, whether it’s the morning after an argument and you want to berate, or you just feel like making their day. Keep in mind, however, that when I say ‘toast in the words’, what I really mean is that your toast will essentially be burnt wherever you draw.

This really makes you question whether the extra effort to write the message is really worth the utter effrontery that is providing burnt toast. Really, this isn’t a gift. It’s more of an underhanded insult.

Normally in an article like this, if I were to mention vibrating rings some more conservative heads may be swiftly turned and some rather brash accusations thrown around about the freedom of the media. However, in this case the rings could not be more innocent, or practically helpful in a situation that has cursed couples since the dawn of the alarm clock. This alarm clock provides two rings, that can be individually set up to vibrate just enough to wake you up at different times in the morning. Personally, the biggest advantage to this alarm clock is that I would no longer have to be awoken by noises that closely resemble Cheryl Cole’s live performances, only a little more melodic. For people in relationships however, the vibrating, noiseless ring puts an end to the constant crushing feeling that you could have had more time asleep, dreaming of a land without mortgages and the constant pressure to surprise and provide for your spouse, if it had not been for their need to wake up at an hour when even roosters are wiping the sleep from their eyes.

We are once again dealing with a concept here, so it is not available to the general public. Designed by Sasha Tseng, this one may only be available if you can present a truly compelling argument to Tseng herself in which this toaster could genuinely save your marriage. Although if you think toast can really do that, you need to question either your partner’s or your own priorities.

This is, unfortunately, still a concept design by Fandi Meng, and so isn’t mass produced yet. However, Meng has already won a myriad of awards for his design, so the logical answer to the problem of differing waking times should be available to the public soon. If only all problems in the morning were that easy to sort!

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HARDWARE

to the D:Scribe Digital Fountain Pen. This magical writing implement will, using what seems to be the deepest dark magic that even Sauron couldn’t offer, transfer whatever you write using the pen into a text message and send it to your partner’s phone. Genius? Obviously.

An abomination? Absolutely. A tool for salvaging marriages and relationships?

At a very long stretch, even if the angered party is one of the rare few that believe technology is ‘sexy’ This product is again a concept piece, designed for the Dyson Student Award in Australia by Reuben Png. Png makes up for a distinct lack of vowels in his last name with a remarkable knowledge of design in technology, however he clearly falls flat on his face when it comes to marketing, because this could be an absolute goldmine. Who wouldn’t want the ability to write out their texts by hand. Oh…

we can provide quality coverage PAPA RAZ ZI

BY GA Y ER LL

We are in the heart of the digital age. It’s undeniable that it controls our lives, from the laptop I’m writing this on to the phone that you’ll inevitably tweet #gallerygadgets on later (optimistic I know, but a boy can dream). The question is often then raised as to what role technology can play in a relationship. Even minus the obvious responses to said question, the resounding answer remains that technology and gadgetry can always help. Regardless of technology, nobody can deny that a message between lovers, a declaration of love, will always provide a great way of bonding for couples. The lovers of literature and those with some indescribable need to cling on to the vintage will argue that there is nothing more romantic than a hand-written love letter, whilst the techies among us will argue that a simple text message with some evidence of conscious thought will more than suffice. There is now a way, however, to bring peace to the raging war between these ideologies. Welcome

DE IN THE ISLE S MA OF MA LEN N

D:SCRIBE DIGITAL FOUNTAIN PEN

If you would like a professional photographer to cover your event or party, get in touch.

THE HUG SHIRT

During my extensive time on the web researching the ever-expanding world of gadgets, so that I can provide you with up-to-the-minute commentary and observations, I sometimes come across something that is truly, indescribably, even painstakingly, pathetic. The Hug Shirt is one of those things. Never in my life have I seen something that symbolizes and announces someone’s loneliness and desperation for human contact so loudly and distinctly. This shirt (that’s actually a hoodie) connects with an app on your iPhone that registers, through sensors in the garment, the touch, strength and duration of a hug, and sends it to another person that is wearing the fashion abomination. Cute in so few ways, terrifying in so many more. An unexpected hug from a hoodie may well spark images of constriction, and falling into the hands of the wrong user, this could genuinely be used as a weapon for what Nacho Libre called the “Anaconda Squeeze”. It is fair to say that, whilst aiming for cute and coupley, CuteCircuit designs have shot and hit the target labeled potentially dangerous and definitely creepy.

Amazingly, out of all the gadgets in this issue, this is the one you can actually buy. Head to www.cutecircuit.com and have a browse, where I’m sure you’ll find other innovations that will ‘revolutionize’ the fashion/technology world. Maybe a glove that can be controlled remotely to slap people in the face?

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Gallery’s paparazzi can attend your event, provide you with all images on CD for your use and also promote your event online and in print, all for a small £ charge.

Call 249249 or email paparazzi@gallery.co.im

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Super-sleek and super-fast: that’s the run down on the Sony Xperia Z3, which comes ready and raring to go on Sure’s soonto-be-launched 4G network.

The Z3 has so much hidden within its sleek aluminium and glass frame that it’s difficult to know where to start. The 5.2 inch screen knocks spots off the competition with an extremely high resolution 1080 x 1920 (4.6 inches and 720 x 1280 for the compact) crystal clear display.

Combine a screen of such quality with a 20.7 megapixel camera and you’ll see the results for yourself in the razor sharp images you capture – both above and below the waterline.

Below the waterline? Yes, you read that right! The Z3 is both water and dust resistant to such a degree that you can happily take it into the sea so you can share your underwater memories with friends.

VISIT US IN ONE OF THE ISLAND’S SURE STORES 15 STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS 4 ORCHARD WALK, PORT ERIN 10 PARLIMENT STREET, RAMSEY

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Pop into one of the Sure stores, in Douglas, Ramsey or Port Erin, to try a 4G-ready Z3 which is available for £49 on our SmartUltimate plan.

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The LG F60 is a smartphone to be relied on for a quick and super-powered experience for a fraction of the price of its mainstream competitors.

The fun starts straight away on this handset with the enhanced security feature- KnockCode™- offering an easy and secure, one-step home screen access by tapping a secure three to eight point pattern - with over 86,000 possible code combinations.

Once unlocked, the LG F60 is best paired with the impatient amongst us as it allows you to get to work swiftly and multitask to the max with a powerful processor that allows you to run multiple apps at once and browse the web speedily- ideal for both downloading and flicking between your favourite apps.

Gesture Control selfies Similarly, if it’s a quality camera you’re after to capture those priceless moments on the go, you’ll be impressed by the Multi-Point Auto Focus feature the 5MP built in rear camera offers. By honing in on 9 separate focal points using the MultiPoint Auto Focus, the LG F60 captures every moment more clearly – including those in motion.

Activating the front facing camera, this smartphone will become an instant best

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Of course, if you’re going to buy a 4G enabled phone, then you’ll want to know that you’re make the most of your new superfast mobile broadband capabilities. The Z3 is built on the Android operating system - the world's most popular mobile platform - giving you access to hundreds of movies, apps, tunes and games.

friend of all selfie-lovers. The screen softly illuminates around the photo preview, working as a virtual flash, allowing you to take the best selfie, even in the lowest of lights. What’s more is that you needn’t struggle to take the perfectly staged group photo anymore as the impressive Gesture Shutter feature works its magic. Allowing you to take pictures with a simple hand movement, the Gesture Shutter activates a 3-second countdown by using an open hand in front of the camera to engage the feature and then closing the hand to activate the timer.

Quickmemo+ With the addition of Quickmemo+ you can arrange for memos to prompt you when you need them. Training for a sporting event? Quickmemo+ allows you to get creative with your fitness and training memos by creating and personalising memos on top of motivating images which can be saved and set to appear based on a time best for you. Perfect if you’re looking for that bit of self-motivation to hit the gym after a tiring day at work.

Available from Manx Telecom for only £99 on Pay As You Go or FREE from £20 per month over 24 months on the Smartphone 150 tariff, which comes with 150 minutes, 150 texts and 300MB of data per month.

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*Terms & conditions apply. Router is discounted for 15GB and 20GB monthly option. MT Ultima and Ultima Plus is subject to your line length from serving equipment, please see manxtelecom.com/speed for line check. Actual speeds achieved are affected by various factors including line length, computer specifications, time of day and internal home wiring.