December / Winter 2018 The DIAMOND Issue

Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no. 81 | December 2018 | the [DIAMOND] issue

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#81

the DIAMOND issue BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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UPFRONT

CONTENTS UPFRONT

AGENDA lite

5 Edito

42 Business News 46 Early Retirement

6 What's On 8 Feature FEATURE

UPFRONT

Regular rich people are mostly like you and I, but with fewer worries and better teeth, whereas the super rich occupy a world where spending 16 mil at Harrods might not even be that unusual. The proportion of global wealth held by a small group of billionaires is completely bonkers - with just 42 people holding as much wealth as the poorest 3.7 billion of the world’s population. Many of these 42s are oligarchs, who “earned” their immense wealth by securing ownership of their countries’ natural resources. This immediately makes me think some kind of revolution is in order, but also then to imagine how hard these people must find doing their Christmas shopping. What do you get the man who has everything, and also owns the factory where most of it is made, and the bank that issues the credit card you’re buying it with? Maybe dropping 16 rocks at Harrods is the oligarch equivalent of being unable to find anything on Amazon and buying an M&S gift hamper with chutneys, chocolate and a multi-pack of pants.

Gift idea: pets are for life, not just for Christmas

The world’s super rich love exotic animals, and the only thing they love more than shooting or eating them is keeping them as pets. The traditional options are big cats, deadly reptiles or birds of prey, but depending on where your oligarch spends the majority of their time these might put across an unwanted “insane super-villain” vibe. Conversely, they might live somewhere where those don’t put across quite enough of that vibe because every moustachioed, uniform-wearing man in the military government has his own panther. If this is the case the only way to stand out is a pool of carnivorous turtles or a pit of honey badgers.

A normal cat or dog, or even an expensive pedigree variant, is far too common to interest the super-rich, but if you have the right contacts in the unregulated East-Asian biotech industry you might be able secure a fur baby with some very unique DNA perhaps a combo of beloved childhood pet and a more exotic wild cousin. Who wouldn’t be thrilled by a chihuahua from Singapore, with the instincts of a hyena and the heritage of a deceased labrador from the 1980s?

Gift idea: something to watch or read in the evenings

A Game of Thrones box set won’t really cut it for the oligarch’s stocking - you’re going to need to liquidate some assets and buy them a big enough media organisation to make their own swords and sorcery epic. It could

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

even feature a cameo by an illustrious figure from the board of shareholders. Owning newspapers and TV stations is actually very traditional for the super-rich, as it allows them to feel like they’re enlightening the populace whilst guaranteeing positive coverage of their various business interests, children and marriages, and of course muting criticism. The international reach of today’s media conglomerates helps the

TEN EFFECTIVE WAYS TO PREPARE FOR (EARLY) RETIREMENT

spectacular. Statues are always a good start, preferably gigantic and/or golden, but you could equally fund a symphony, an orchestra and the venue to perform it in. Make sure you have the badger pit handy for musicians who play any bum notes.

Gift idea: a little place to call your own

Near-unlimited cash reserves and fabulous possessions are nice enough, but we live

Gift idea: a nice bit of art to brighten up the place

In bygone eras the possession of fine art was a way to signal that the owner was cultured, sophisticated and a member of the elite class that could afford to keep artists one step away from starvation in exchange for flattering oil paintings or marble sculptures. Nowadays any of us can afford art, even if it’s simply a poster of dogs playing poker or a tea towel version of Van Gogh’s sunflowers. Thus for the oligarch only an original will do - as this offers the combination of bragging rights and the investment possibility of something worth tens of millions that can still be rolled up and hidden if you need to flee to another country. Oil paintings from dead masters are an obvious choice, although hard to obtain at short notice if you’re squeamish about hiring art thieves, but work by Damien Hirst and Tracy Emin is less portable and perhaps a bit common. The man of the moment is Banksy, and you needn’t worry about the irony of street art that criticises capitalism selling to people too rich to have walked in the street in decades: the superrich are above irony, artistic or otherwise. In fact, why not go all in and commission the creation of a new artwork about the oligarch themselves, preferable gaudy, tasteless and

BECAUSE QUALITY QUALITY MATTERS MATTERS BECAUSE

Plus you need to factor in contingency for the ‘just in case’ situation (unexpected medical bills, for example).

2. ANALYSE YOUR SPENDING/ QUESTION YOUR SPENDING DECISIONS. You know the big overspends – if you pay for a luxury holiday twice a year and max out your credit card, then you know you’re probably not thinking too far into your financial future. That old saying ‘looking after the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves’ applies here too – do you really need that weekly takeaway?

3. TACKLE YOUR DEBT/PAY OFF HIGH-INTEREST DEBTS AS FAST AS YOU CAN. If you’re in debt now, how do you expect to save? High interest loans and credit cards are a killer but are often inevitable if, say, you want a car. The best advice is to work out a ‘quick and dirty’ repayment plan. Just get it off the books as soon as possible, then you can start looking to the future.

agenda

ON THE AGENDA

4. INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF YOUR INCOME THAT YOU SAVE. Where possible, pay yourself first before paying the bills. Think of a certain portion of your monthly salary as a ‘retirement wage’. Make sure, though, that you don’t start dipping into it. Start thinking long-term and view it as stealing from your future you.

5. START AN EMERGENCY FUND To help avoid dipping into your ‘retirement wage’ set up a separate emergency fund. That way your finances are structured enough for you to have this pot of cash to use when, as they tend to do, the inconvenient life crises (crashed car, broken boiler) hit.

6. START A PROFITABLE SIDE VENTURE This one can be tricky – do you have time? Will it impinge on your job? – but, where you can, a nice little side earner can be a goldmine. You might be building your lucrative future career as a big social media star, but putting your wages from your part-time bar job into savings can be useful too.

7. SET UP A CONTINUAL INCOME SOURCE/CREATE A PASSIVE INCOME STREAM Making money in your sleep - that has to be a goal doesn’t it? If you’re lucky enough to have a second home don’t let it sit there empty, rent it out and watch your bank balance thank you. A simpler version of this could be renting out a room in your house.

8. GET SERIOUS ABOUT LIFESTYLE CHANGES Do you need all the ‘stuff’ you have in your life? Do you need to collect vinyl records? Will your future you thank you for all those back issues of Kerrang magazine? No? Then go minimalist – suddenly excess will be an alien concept and an obvious by-product of that will be less spend/more saved.

9. ACCUMULATE SAVINGS BUT ALSO INVEST A SET AMOUNT REGULARLY Setting aside a regular amount of money to save is vital but how about investing a regular amount of money and (hopefully) watching it grow? You may find you’re a whizz at playing the markets but most people will find they need a little help from the experts in this area, hence point 10.

10. MEET REGULARLY WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISER This really is the key to all of the above.

A good financial adviser will help you go through your spending, make suggestions on where you can make savings and talk you through ideas and any investment plans you might want to consider. Like RL360, many companies providing investment products only do so through a financial adviser.

WHO WE ARE 47

agenda

RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE

48 Appointments

T: 01624 619540 sales@gallery.co.im ACCOUNTS

APPETITE

laura@gallery.co.im T: 01624 619540

58 Wine Talk 59 Recipes 60 Wine Tasting

221 MEDIA Gallery/Agenda Magazines

PO Box 52 Douglas Isle of Man IM99 1GY Tel: 01624 619540 www.gallery.co.im

TRAVEL

62 European Stays FASHION & BEAUTY EVENTS

Heroes in the Community 2018 Winners n Skywind Group Child of Courage – Leon McEleney & Hayden Sweeney n Absolute Scaffolding Heart of Gold – Helen Walmsley n Ambitions Recruitment Parent of the Year – Jo Fenton n Ramsey Crookall Grandparent of the Year – Laura Lawson n Microgaming PlayItForward Teacher of the Year – Kelly Charman, Bright Beginnings Nursery n Wi-Manx Dedication to the Arts – Steve Brookes, The Studio Theatre n Manx Radio Dedication to Sport Under 18 - Sean Jackson n Jacksons Dedication to Sports Over 18 – George Peach, Southern 100 Club (accepted by Tim Glover picture left and Phil Edge centre) n Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Dedication to the Community - Julie Marshall n KPMG Dedication to Equality and Diversity - Adrian Untisz, The Community Farm

CONTRIBUTORS

64 Party Fashion

EDITORIAL

FASHION

FASHION

Dark Green Big Sack Slogan Jumper, New Look, £19.99

PARTY FASHION Lola Embellished Envelope Clutch, Accessorize, £37 It’s party season, so it’s time to inject some festive cheer into your wardrobe. Think bold prints, sequins and, love them or hate them Christmas jumpers. Whether you opt for a festive favourite or something with a subtle sparkle, make it your most stylish Yuletide yet with our top picks from the high street.

Red Hipster Santa Jumper, New Look, £19.99

Crinkle Velvet Co-ord, Topshop, £39-£88

Cleopatra Statement Earrings, Accessorize, £15

MANX MADE SHAVING CREAM After many months of preparation, the Manx made Sweeney Todd Shaving Cream project is now complete and on sale at Sweeney Todd Gents Hairdressers.

The project to produce a Manx made shaving cream started about 2 years ago when Sweeney Todd was looking for a product to complement the Sweeney Todd Shaving Brushes which are sold in the shop and online. As the Brush is handmade on the Isle of Man it got Sweeney Todd thinking, would it be possible to find a shaving cream which was totally made in the Island? The answer was Yes.

GIRLS

Thanks to the generous support of sponsors, other local companies and attendees, the event also raised more the £10,000 for the Manx Radio Dream Catcher charity.

BOYS Charcoal Pattern Crew Neck Jumper, Burton, £28

Keen to play a part in the reduction of single use plastic, unlike a number of alternative shaving creams on the market, the Sweeney Todd shaving cream comes in an aluminium container which can be recycled.

Customers can also return their empty tins to receive 50p saving off their next Sweeney Todd shaving cream purchase.

Adding to the aim of using as many local businesses in the formation of this product, even the labels are locally sourced thanks to Bruce Hooper of Hooper’s Foil Printers which is based in Peel.

Juliet Sequin Jacket, Monsoon, £99

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

30 IoM Equine Event 32 MBCSP 5th Anniversary Ball

Black Embellished Sleeve Jumpsuit, Dorothy Perkins, £39

64

CULTURE

PAPARAZZI CULTURE

UPLOAD - OUR ISLAND YOUR PHOTOS

£50ner Win

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1 Cameron Skehan 2 Andrew Taylor Glen Mooar 3 Rosy Johnson Port Erin 4 Gemma Dimsdale ballaglass Geln 5 Daniel Magee Douglas Bay-

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66 Clear Sound 68 E-Bikes 70 Gadgets

36 Culture News 38 Upload - Your Photos 42 All I want for Christmas.. .

Cream Fluffy Santa Baby Christmas Jumper, New Look, £30

HARDWARE

CULTURE

6 Port Erin Paddleboards - 12ft Shark 7 Michael F. Griffiths Maughold Lighthouse 8 William Galbraith Peel Castle 9 Alan Denton - Archallaghan 10 Janette Phair 11 Clare Bettison

Emma Cooke Russ Atikinson

Navy Fair Isle Christmas Jumper, Burton, £25

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74-80 Are you in?

Clare Bowie Leroy Hudson Suzy Holland Robert Shrimsley Les Able Joe Holland Grant Runyon Will Bertram DESIGN STUDIO

The Sweeney Todd Shaving Cream in now available in store at Sweeney Todd, Villa Marina Arcade and online at www. sweeneytodd-iom.com

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PUBLISHER

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

52 Feature Property 72 Property News

EVENTS

in the community awards

This will obviously determine the kind of money your retirement will require.

Are you happy living the quiet life or are you going to go big and travel the world in a luxury yacht?

PlACES

22 Dr David Bull’s Birthday 24 Monitors4kids Ball 26 Anisha & Andrew’s Wedding 28 Heroes in the Community

Hosted by Manx Radio’s Chris Kinley and Emma Blackburn, this year’s gala ceremony had a rock ‘n’ roll theme, complete with chequered dance floor and boppin’ live entertainment.

1. DETERMINE WHAT KIND OF LIFESTYLE YOU WANT IN RETIREMENT.

Or, are they?

There’s no question we’re all going to retire but what remains up for debate is how we’re going to occupy our time when that day finally comes. And it all boils down to the usual. Money.

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EVENTS

The awards also celebrated dedicated family members who have gone above and beyond for their relatives and youngsters who have shown true bravery in the face of adversity.

Essentially, now is the time to plan and save - here are 10 ways to get started:

For some people – let’s call them ‘the lucky ones’ – the point at which they are actually going to do this is fast approaching.

They’re about to retire early, or right on time, and they’re going to do all of those things they’ve been dreaming about for decades.

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12 MISC 14 Me & My Pet 16 Big Diamonds 17 Dust to Diamonds 18 News in Numbers 19 GIVE - Our Community

The Heroes in the Community Awards returned to the Empress Hotel in November to recognise incredible local guys ‘n’ gals who do extraordinary things for the island’s community.

Of course you have, you’re only human.

in an uncertain world. It’s impossible to be sure that petty matters like jealousy (or starvation) won’t cause the little people to rise up against their friendly local oligarch.

Very rarely the government might even take their side, despite 24/7 propaganda from your newspaper and TV station. The only cast iron insurance policy is to own the government, and a decent proportion of the army, but even if you’re a multi-multibillionaire this is a big ask unless you were born into an appropriate dynasty. The very best gift is therefore the gift of a territory small enough where you can own everything right up to the borders - planks, banks and any tanks. Caribbean Islands are always popular, albeit vulnerable to bad weather and nearby revolutions, and small European or Asian states can be purchased on a timeshare basis if you’re willing to construct a few schools and factories and don’t insist on your oligarch’s face being on the money.

These do tend to be cheaper because they’re located in places that are a touch unstable, so the real blue chip gift has to be somewhere very small, judicially independent, but close to a larger and more stable government.

10 Christmas Past Festive

THE EVERYDAY HEROES ROCKIN’ OUR ISLAND

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to quit work and devote your time solely to the things you love?

“What do you get the man who has everything, and also owns the factory where most of it is made, and the bank that issues the credit card you’re buying it with?” oligarch smooth relationships with any governments who might plan something as silly as trying to regulate their enormous wealth. British newspapers are a solid gift, as are US film studios, but you could always go contemporary by purchasing a well-known website or even an app - assuming that you can find one that isn’t owned by somebody who became an equally demanding billionaire by virtue of designing it.

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.

If you don’t make provision for early retirement, or indeed retirement at all, you’re setting yourself up for a fall. Instead of relaxing days around the pool or adrenalin fuelled skydiving trips, you may instead find yourself couch-bound, counting your pennies and watching daytime TV.

UPFRONT

If you find yourself feeling guilty about a holiday shopping spree spare a thought for Zamira Hajiyeva, who was arrested in November when she was unable to explain to the Metropolitan Police exactly how she found the cash to spend over 16 million pounds at Harrods. For legal reasons I’m not going to say that it had anything to do with her husband, the jailed former chairman of Azerbaijan’s state bank, so I’ll assume it must be similar to the time I went crazy on double dividend day and bought five boxes of Mint Magnums. Unexpected item in the bagging area!

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Peter Kwiecinski Shan Fisher Liam Gilman Adele Priest Robyn Ackron Gemma Lloyd-Jones Steve Babb 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.

Recycle.

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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.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

Diamonds are for-sometimes

#81 [the DIAMOND ISSUE] £ priceless

Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no. 81 | December 2018 | the [DIAMOND] issue

#81

the DIAMOND issue BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

WWW.GALLERY.CO.IM

COVER CREDIT PHOTOGRAHPER SHAN FISHER SHANSPHOTO.COM MODEL ANNA GRIGOROVA

D

edito

iamonds are a bit like instagram aren’t they? Stay with me here. Underneath all the bling, they are hard and durable, weathering all sorts of storms, highs and lows and ups and downs; but all we see is the shiny, sparkly surface as they show their best side, live their best life and keep the rest hidden. Don’t get us wrong, we always show our best side here at Gallery, truth is, we can’t help ourselves, but as 2018 draws to a close we say you can still live your best life without all the polish and sparkle. Just let it all hang out, don’t sweat the small stuff and try to enjoy the moment without taking a photo of it!

So, I know this sort of sounds like we’re urging you to start your New Year’s resolutions before the New Year actually starts, and yes, that is exactly what we are doing. It’s time to throw away the rule book and do things when you feel like doing them, not because some ad man or Gallery randomer tells you to. It may be time to follow your own rules, you may decide that diamonds are in fact a man’s best friend instead of a dog, you may even decide to drink pimms in the winter time or eat roast beef on Christmas Day, carve out a pumpkin in December or scoff Easter eggs on Boxing Day. You may propose marriage with a ruby instead of a solid form of carbon and she may even say yes. I know! Talk about liberating! In a world full of rules and appearances, expectations and pressures, follow your own path and pick your own gems.

Seriously though, you’re probably going to still want to flick through the magazine for your monthly dose of entertainment and enlightenment because some traditions are too good to miss. Happy December, the world is your oysterprawn. See? We’re always changing it up here!

SR

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

FACEBOOK.COM/ GALLERYIOM

COVER CREDIT - Photographer Shan Fisher | Makeup Artist Heather Maddrell | Model Anna Grigorova | Hair Styling Abbie Hunt

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WHAT’S ON 01.12 and 02.12.2018

ARTISAN CHRISTMAS MARKET

01.12.2018

ICE SCULPTURE

//STRAND STREET, DOUGLAS// The awesome Ice Sculpture will be back in the capital this December, designed and created by artists Darren and Steph from IceMann Studio. The team at sponsors WiManx have once again chosen the theme but you need to be there from 10am to see how Darren and Steph get on. www.facebook.com/douglas-town-centremanagement

//GRENABY STUDIOS nr BALLABEG/ Saturday the 1st from 10am-5pm, and Sunday 2nd December from 11am-4pm.

There will be plenty of opportunity throughout the weekend to meet the artists, including Claire (Elementisle Jewellery), Graham (Art forms from Nature), Rosie (Grenabee), Debra (Isle Be Creative), Nicola Dixon, Pauline Quaye, Julia Ashby Smyth, Vici Blackburn, Little Tree Soaps, Breeze Candles and more to top up on Christmas gifts for family, friends and to keep for yourself. ‘Flo the Coffee Van’ will be serving up a delicious array of bakes, cakes and wintry warming drinks and hearty soup.

And just down the road in Arbory Parish Hall, the Keird Collective will be displaying and selling more creative gifts from Keird artists and makers.

02.12.2018

GALA CONCERT

//VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// The Isle of Man Symphony Orchestra’s annual Christmas concert take place at 2.30pm, featuring music from Brahms, Schumann, Dvorak and a special performance of the Legend of St Maughold from Charles Guard. www.villagaiety.com

02.12 and 05-08.12.2018

THE GRINCH

PEEL CENTENARY CENTRE, PEEL Join Peel Pantaloons for its annual panto, promising to leave you all Christmassy and festive. ‘The Grinch, The Panto’ is a heartwarming tale that proves that the Spirit of Christmas really can conquer all.

Tickets from the venue and from Celtic Gold, Peel. www.etickets.im/cc

01.12.2018

CASTLETOWN CHRISTMAS MARKET

//MARKET SQUARE, CASTLETOWN// Castletown Food and Craft Markets are part of Castletown’s BIG Christmas Light Switch on this year so come down and explore our handmade crafts and gifts in the Town Hall, meet Santa in his grotto, take part in children’s activities hosted by Balley Cashtal Beg, taste foods from around the world and indulge in festive treats such as roast chestnuts, mulled wine and hot chocolate with all the trimmings.

Opening at midday, there will be live entertainment from 4pm before the big lights switch on at 5pm followed by a magical firework display suitable for all the family.

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Christmas is…

01.12 - 02.12.2018

CHRISTMAS ART CRAWL

//PEEL and the West// The Christmas Art Crawl is a market style, art trail event, in a variety of venues including House of Manannan, Pilates Isle of Man, The Isle Gallery at Tynwald Mills and in Kirk Michael. A downloadable venue guide is available from www.artreachiom. com so this is an ideal opportunity to get some of your Christmas shopping out of the way early.

More information also at www.facebook. com/theislegallery

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manxtelecom.com/christmas Terms & Conditions apply, seewww.manxtelecom.com/christmas

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

DECEMBER 02.12.2018

CHRISTMAS MARKET

//MOUNTAIN VIEW INNOVATION CENTRE, JURBY ROAD, RAMSEY// A range of local small businesses and crafters all under one roof, with Christmas gifts galore. Hot and cold food available and plenty of festive entertainment in aid of local charities Beach Buddies, Wish Upon a Dream and Isle of Man Foodbank.

Entry is £1 for adults and free for children www.facebook.com/MVICiom

05.12.2018

WE WISH YOU A MERRY YACMAS

//YOUTH ARTS CENTRE, KENSINGTON ROAD, DOUGLAS// A Christmas variety show performed by the Youth Arts Centre. A night full of singing, bands, dancing and theatre and maybe a cheeky mince pie thrown in too.

Join in the fun and a Christmas sing-a-long – tickets available on the door, £5 (adults) £2.50 (children). www.facebook.com/youthartscentre/

7.12.2018

MANANNAN’S WINTERFEST

//GAIETY THEATRE, DOUGLAS// A unique concert celebrating Manx Christmas traditions through a collaboration of the Island’s finest exponents of classical, folk, brass and choral music, with a sprinkle of local humour and drama added to the mix.

This unmissable show features Londonbased Manx opera singer Kate Dowman, BBC award-winning folk harpist Mera Royle, Sheffield Plate Winner Alexandra Slater, the legendary Michael Players, festive sounds from Ramsey Town Band, carols from the Manx Voices choir, Gareth Moore on piano, plus a collective of world renowned Celtic musicians including David Kilgallon, Malcolm Stitt, Jamie Smith, Kirsty & Katie Lawrence.

07.12.2018

PIANO SERIES – DANIEL HART

//ERIN ARTS CENTRE, PORT ERIN// The EAC Piano Series continues with a recital by Daniel Hart who will be playing music from Bach, Schubert, Schumann and Lecuona.

Tickets from the Erin Arts Centre box office 01624 832662. www.erinartscentre.com

8.12.2018

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL CONCERT

//VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// An evening of festive music performed by the young musicians of the Manx Youth Orchestras, Bands and Guitar ensembles.

Tickets from £5 (under 16s) to £10 (Adult). www.villagaiety.com Tickets from £20 from www.villagaiety.com Sponsored by Year of Our Island 2018, 08.12 – 09.12.2018 Culture Vannin, IOM Arts Council, DOUGLAS CHRISTMAS Malcolm Scott Dickinson Charitable Trust.

MARKET

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//OLD SHOPRITE STORE, MARKET STREET// Never mind the weather, this year’s Christmas market is taking place indoors in the old Shoprite store. A huge variety of hot and cold food offerings and a range of other local producers. And easy parking in the Chester Street carpark too. www.facebook.com/douglas-town-centremanagement

13.12.2018

CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL TRACTOR RUN

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from £33pm

//GRANDSTAND, DOUGLAS// Festive run around the TT Course for tractors and other vehicles – starting at the grandstand at 6pm, a pit stop at Ramsey

by Mezeron (next to the Swimming Pool on Mooragh Prom), departing at 7.30 and finally returning to Douglas Promenade for photos, refreshments and for the judges to award prizes including most lights, loudest Christmas music and best decorated trailer.

Organised by Isle of Man Young Farmers, there will be bucket collections at every stop to raise funds their chosen charities. www.facebook.com/Isle-of-Man-YoungFarmers-173360389380037/

15.12.2018

OPEN STUDIOS Samsung A6 + Tab A 10.5 2018

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//PINEWOOD STUDIOS, KIRK MICHAEL// Poplar local artists and educators Kate Jerry and Colette Gambell open up their new studios at Lower Bishopscourt Farm for a spot of last minute Christmas shopping. www.facebook.com/PineWoodStudio/

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FEATURE

UPFRONT

If you find yourself feeling guilty about a holiday shopping spree spare a thought for Zamira Hajiyeva, who was arrested in November when she was unable to explain to the Metropolitan Police exactly how she found the cash to spend over 16 million pounds at Harrods. For legal reasons I’m not going to say that it had anything to do with her husband, the jailed former chairman of Azerbaijan’s state bank, so I’ll assume it must be similar to the time I went crazy on double dividend day and bought five boxes of Mint Magnums. Unexpected item in the bagging area!

Regular rich people are mostly like you and I, but with fewer worries and better teeth, whereas the super rich occupy a world where spending 16 mil at Harrods might not even be that unusual. The proportion of global wealth held by a small group of billionaires is completely bonkers - with just 42 people holding as much wealth as the poorest 3.7 billion of the world’s population. Many of these 42s are oligarchs, who “earned” their immense wealth by securing ownership of their countries’ natural resources. This immediately makes me think some kind of revolution is in order, but also then to imagine how hard these people must find doing their Christmas shopping. What do you get the man who has everything, and also owns the factory where most of it is made, and the bank that issues the credit card you’re buying it with? Maybe dropping 16 rocks at Harrods is the oligarch equivalent of being unable to find anything on Amazon and buying an M&S gift hamper with chutneys, chocolate and a multi-pack of pants.

Gift idea: pets are for life, not just for Christmas

The world’s super rich love exotic animals, and the only thing they love more than shooting or eating them is keeping them as pets. The traditional options are big cats, deadly reptiles or birds of prey, but depending on where your oligarch spends the majority of their time these might put across an unwanted “insane super-villain” vibe. Conversely, they might live somewhere where those don’t put across quite enough of that vibe because every moustachioed, uniform-wearing man in the military government has his own panther. If this is the case the only way to stand out is a pool of carnivorous turtles or a pit of honey badgers.

A normal cat or dog, or even an expensive pedigree variant, is far too common to interest the super-rich, but if you have the right contacts in the unregulated East-Asian biotech industry you might be able secure a fur baby with some very unique DNA perhaps a combo of beloved childhood pet and a more exotic wild cousin. Who wouldn’t be thrilled by a chihuahua from Singapore, with the instincts of a hyena and the heritage of a deceased labrador from the 1980s?

Gift idea: something to watch or read in the evenings

A Game of Thrones box set won’t really cut it for the oligarch’s stocking - you’re going to need to liquidate some assets and buy them a big enough media organisation to make their own swords and sorcery epic. It could

BECAUSE QUALITY QUALITY MATTERS MATTERS BECAUSE

even feature a cameo by an illustrious figure from the board of shareholders. Owning newspapers and TV stations is actually very traditional for the super-rich, as it allows them to feel like they’re enlightening the populace whilst guaranteeing positive coverage of their various business interests, children and marriages, and of course muting criticism. The international reach of today’s media conglomerates helps the

spectacular. Statues are always a good start, preferably gigantic and/or golden, but you could equally fund a symphony, an orchestra and the venue to perform it in. Make sure you have the badger pit handy for musicians who play any bum notes.

Gift idea: a little place to call your own

Near-unlimited cash reserves and fabulous possessions are nice enough, but we live

“What do you get the man who has everything, and also owns the factory where most of it is made, and the bank that issues the credit card you’re buying it with?” oligarch smooth relationships with any governments who might plan something as silly as trying to regulate their enormous wealth. British newspapers are a solid gift, as are US film studios, but you could always go contemporary by purchasing a well-known website or even an app - assuming that you can find one that isn’t owned by somebody who became an equally demanding billionaire by virtue of designing it.

Gift idea: a nice bit of art to brighten up the place

In bygone eras the possession of fine art was a way to signal that the owner was cultured, sophisticated and a member of the elite class that could afford to keep artists one step away from starvation in exchange for flattering oil paintings or marble sculptures. Nowadays any of us can afford art, even if it’s simply a poster of dogs playing poker or a tea towel version of Van Gogh’s sunflowers. Thus for the oligarch only an original will do - as this offers the combination of bragging rights and the investment possibility of something worth tens of millions that can still be rolled up and hidden if you need to flee to another country. Oil paintings from dead masters are an obvious choice, although hard to obtain at short notice if you’re squeamish about hiring art thieves, but work by Damien Hirst and Tracy Emin is less portable and perhaps a bit common. The man of the moment is Banksy, and you needn’t worry about the irony of street art that criticises capitalism selling to people too rich to have walked in the street in decades: the superrich are above irony, artistic or otherwise. In fact, why not go all in and commission the creation of a new artwork about the oligarch themselves, preferable gaudy, tasteless and

in an uncertain world. It’s impossible to be sure that petty matters like jealousy (or starvation) won’t cause the little people to rise up against their friendly local oligarch.

Very rarely the government might even take their side, despite 24/7 propaganda from your newspaper and TV station. The only cast iron insurance policy is to own the government, and a decent proportion of the army, but even if you’re a multi-multibillionaire this is a big ask unless you were born into an appropriate dynasty. The very best gift is therefore the gift of a territory small enough where you can own everything right up to the borders - planks, banks and any tanks. Caribbean Islands are always popular, albeit vulnerable to bad weather and nearby revolutions, and small European or Asian states can be purchased on a timeshare basis if you’re willing to construct a few schools and factories and don’t insist on your oligarch’s face being on the money.

These do tend to be cheaper because they’re located in places that are a touch unstable, so the real blue chip gift has to be somewhere very small, judicially independent, but close to a larger and more stable government.

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UPFRONT

CHRISTMAS PAST: 10 WAYS THAT CHRISTMAS CHANGES AFTER KIDS Remember when you used to get bored of lie-ins and spent Christmas time inhaling Quality Street to fend off your hangover? *Wipes a tear from haggard face* Words Clare Bowie

1.The run up to Christmas used to be about sparkly shoes, LBD’s and multiple nights out, but now it’s more about assembling Nativity costumes from tea-towels and toilet rolls, while mentally calculating roast potato/parsnip ratios and making sure everyone actually has matching shoes on.

2. Presents: You used to worry about which Jo Malone candle you wanted the most or if you should go for the “Charlotte Tilbury Limited Edition Glowing Pretty Skin Palette” and now allyour money goes to Argos, Amazon and Smyths. Your entire “new dream-kitchen” budget is now spent on slow-rising squishies, lumps of plastic, lego and a family ticket to the Panto. *pops a tin of gin into handbag to make it through the matinee* 3.When you said you’d go out with your friends for a Christmas night out you thought it was pretty clear that you all meant in January or February, because none of you will ever be organised enough to book a table for Christmas dinner in October when you’re up to your ears in skeletons, killer clowns and pumpkins. #notgoingtohappen. Also, it’s a bit too loud in town at Christmas, taxis are like mythical unicorns, and seriously, does no-one wear warm clothes anymore, it’s December for crying out loud!

4. Christmas Eve used to be a big night out in town, but now you spend it silently installing batteries, artfully nibbling mince pies in a Santa-esque manner,building flat packed doll’s houses and running up and

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down the stairs approximately 47 times, whilst holding your breath and praying that you don’t meet a child en route. Plus, you will definitely forget something. Don’t worry, you’ll find it in a corner of the boot next April.

5. You had no idea that Christmas was so competitive between parents.

Which Santa are you visiting? Did you bake the teachers a batch of homemade “ginger bread people” with personalised inspirational messages written in icing?

Did you bond with your children when you made their individual advent calendars and tepee trees? Em, is giving your kids chocolate for breakfast during December not a thing anymore? #missedthatmemo 6. You used to exchange gifts with friends but now you don’t even have the time inclination to write a Christmas card. So, instead, you exchange horror stories about being extorted by L.O.L Surprises and the agony of removing slime from ALL of your carpets. You cheers to actually making it out in February for your “Christmas get together” and start a whatsapp group about your next night out which “has to be soon” (which means September).

7. You used to love a to-do list but now it’s all about the Santa list. You have to hover surreptitiously behind your children, taking sneaky pictures on your phone to record what they want. Then you have to spend the next 4 weeks reminding them what they wanted at the time of publication of the letter so they don’t get whimsical

and decide that they actually hate Our Generation camper Sweet Stop Ice Cream Trucks, 2 days before Christmas.

8. You used to spend Christmas morning relaxing, opening a few gifts, taking a leisurely shower and putting on all of your new clothes, body lotions and make-up before settling down to a dinner that someone else had made. Those were the best days of your life and you didn’t even realise! *swigs baileys from the bottle, removes potato peelings and chocolate coins from hair, whilst carrying a small child on hip and basting turkey* 9. Your insta-worthy Christmas tree used to be so nice; you had one with glass baubles and white lights as well as a skandi-branch theme in the hallway. Now, your biggest achievement will be when the tree stays up for more than 24 hours, or if any of the decorations near the bottom are not flung off before Christmas Eve. Also, who doesn’t love a life-sized illuminated singing snowman in their garden?

10. Your priorities are so different now.

To be totally honest, your favourite gift is the espresso coffee machine and you can’t help but think how extremely useful a small set of screw drivers would be for toy cars; and god knows, it would be handy to have a spare pair of nail clippers in your travel toiletry bag, along with that mini sewing kit. It’s been such a long day but New Year’s Eve will be easier. If only you could stay awake until midnight.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

•••• MODDEY MODDEY DHOO, WHERE ARE YOU? WE’VE GOT SOME BEEF WITH YOU NOW. C’MON MODDEY DHOO, WHERE ARE YOU? WE NEED A WORD WITH YOU NOW.

UPFRONT

MANN TAILS #13

Keisha is a seven-year-old Siberian Husky who has a good knowledge of basic commands but who is responding really well to further training. She’s intelligent and quick to learn, and so we would like her new owners to continue with her training.

I’M ROVER RERE.

SCOOBY DOO REFERENCES ASIDE, I DON’T THINK HE’S IN RIGHT NOW. MAYBE HE JUST COMES OUT AT NIGHT OR SOMETHING.

Her previous owners had a change in circumstances which meant that they could no longer keep Keisha, and so she is looking for a new home through no fault of her own. She is stunning, with one blue and one brown eye, and she’s very playful.

Keisha

Her natural exuberance means that she would be best suited to a home with older children, with new owners who appreciate her need to have plenty of physical exercise - she’s definitely not a couch potato.

NAH I’M JUST PULLING YOUR TAIL, OR LACK THERE OF. THIS STORY IS GONNA TAKE A BIT LONGER THAN 13 STRIPS, SO GUESS YOU’LL JUST HAVE TO BUY THE BOOK.

She also needs to be groomed regularly, but she doesn’t need regular baths to maintain her gleaming white coat. In fact, it’s actually much better for Huskies to keep bathing to a minimum. They have a double coat of hair, with the top being waterproof and the bottom insulating, and too much bathing can strip the top coat of its natural oils. It can also dry out the skin underneath.

SO THIS IS ESSENTIALLY ONE LONG ADVERTISMENT.

Please come and meet Keisha if you think you have the time to devote to her. If you have a dog already the Kennels team will help to co-ordinate his/her first few meetings with Keisha, and they will give you all the advice and support you need.

WHAT DID YOU EXPECT. BUT HEY, WE’LL BE IN IT TOO. MANN TAILS FEATURING TWO DOGS ONE BRAIN, THE FULL TAIL(S)

END..?

Wednesday, Elvira and Morticia

THANKS FOR READING. ADOBPT A PET AND HAVE FUN SPOTTING YOUR FRIENDS IN PAGE 84.

Wednesday (black and white), Elvira (tortoiseshell) and Morticia (black) are three young girls who have had a very unsettled start to life. They have already had two homes, with previous owners who could no longer keep cats, and so we would like their next one to be their last, ‘forever’ one. They are related and have always lived together, and so we would like to rehome them as a trio if we can.

They are affectionate both with each other and towards humans, and they are very entertaining to watch – they groom each other, play fight with each other, and sleep curled up in a ball together. And so if you are thinking of adopting a cat, and have room in your life and home for three times the pleasure, come and meet these lovely ladies.

Please remember, though, that a cat or a dog is for life and not just for Chritmas!

ManxSPCA • Ard Jerkyll, East Foxdale • Tel: 851672

www.manxspca.com

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UPFRONT

MISC

Just random things to amuse you.

Know your... Diamonds?

Diamond Ring Fact

1 The ancient Romans and Greeks believed

The first well-documented use of a diamond ring to signify engagement was by the Archduke Maximilian of Austria in imperial court of Vienna in 1477, upon his betrothal to Mary of Burgundy. This then influenced those of higher social class and of significant wealth to give diamond rings to their loved ones.

that diamonds were tears cried by the gods or splinters from falling stars, and Romans believed that Cupid’s arrows were tipped with diamonds (perhaps the earliest association between diamonds and romantic love).

2 Diamonds are billions of years old—in

some cases more than three billion years old.

3 Diamonds form about 100 miles below

ground and have been carried to the earth’s surface by deep volcanic eruptions.

4 Diamonds are made of a single element—

they’re nearly 100% carbon. Under the immense heat and pressure far below the earth’s surface, the carbon atoms bond in a unique way that results in diamonds’ beautiful and rare crystalline structure.

5 The word diamond derives from the Greek word “adamas,” which means invincible or indestructible.

6 Diamonds are the very hardest natural substance. The only thing that can scratch a diamond is another diamond.

7 Diamonds have been valued and coveted for thousands of years. There is evidence that diamonds were being collected and traded in India as early as the fourth

Quoted:

century BC. In the first century AD, the Roman naturalist Pliny is quoted as having said, “Diamond is the most valuable, not only of precious stones, but of all things in this world.”

8 Ancient Hindus used diamonds in the eyes of devotional statues, and believed that a diamond could protect its wearer from danger.

9 Many ancient cultures believed that diamonds gave the wearer strength and courage during battle, and some kings wore diamonds on their armor as they rode into battle.

10 During the Middle Ages diamonds were thought to have healing properties able to cure ailments ranging from fatigue to mental illness.

11 The countries that are the main sources of diamonds have changed over time. India was the world’s original source of diamonds, beginning in the 1400s when Indian diamonds began to be sold in Venice and other European trade centers. Then in the 1700s India’s diamond supplies declined and Brazil became the world’s major source of diamonds, until the late 1800s when a huge diamond reserve was discovered in South Africa. Today, diamonds are mined in many parts of the world, including Canada, Botswana, Namibia, and Russia.

Zsa Zsa Gabor Actress

“I never hated a man enough to give him his diamonds back.”

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Quoted:

Joke:

A guy bought his wife a beautiful diamond ring for her birthday.

After hearing about this extravagant gift, a friend of his said, “I thought she wanted one of those sporty, four wheel drive vehicles.”

“She did,” he replied. “But where am I going to find an imitation Jeep?”

Joan Rivers

Actress & comedian

“I don’t exercise. If God had wanted me to bend over, he would have put diamonds on the floor.”

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

SHINE BRIGHT LIKE THE ISLE OF MAN AT THIS TIME OF YEAR WE THINK BACK OVER THE PAST 12 MONTHS – NEW ACCOMPLISHMENTS, MEMORIES WE’VE MADE, CELEBRATING WITH NEW AND OLD FRIENDS – AS WE BEGIN TO LOOK FORWARD TO WHAT 2019 WILL BRING.

Motorsport

Each year the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company supports a huge variety of community events, charities and good causes. Celebrating the diamonds of our isle and the diversity in arts, culture, heritage, sport and motorsport.

breaking amount of charity donations collected on sailings throughout TT 2018. More than £20,000 was collected by onboard staff for the Rob Vine Fund, taking the total raised over the past 24 years to £275,000.

We take a look back on 2018 to some of the initiatives, projects and events supported by the Steam Packet Company, and why we should be celebrating the individuals and organisations that strive to make a difference in the special place we call home.

In summer the Company once again assisted Let’s Do Veterans by bringing over a group of former armed forces personnel to the island for the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Southern 100 International Road Races. The charity received free of charge travel for the six veterans, who have all suffered lifechanging injuries while serving in the line of duty.

Arts & Culture Arts and culture is thriving on the Isle of Man and the Steam Packet Company is pleased to support its development. This year it helped to bring over the Lempen Puppet Theatre Company which inspired local schoolchildren to be more creative and explorative through an interactive performance.

The Isle of Man is home to an assortment of talented sports stars and the Steam Packet Company is always open to offering its support where it can, helping gifted individuals as they strive to reach their potential. Local professional golfer Tom Gandy and pro cyclist Tom Mazzone have benefitted from the Company’s ongoing support throughout 2018 as they travelled from and to the island, competing in various tournaments and competitions. The Ramsey Rocket Conor Cummins has also been backed by the ferry firm once again.

Motorsport Every year thousands of racing fans flock to our island via ferry to experience the thrills of the TT, and the Steam Packet Company was delighted to announce a record-

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Community

Community In October, two friends from the Isle of Man, Hayley Curtis and Laura Mackie, took part in a charity skydive in Lancaster in aid of Breast Cancer Now. The Steam Packet Company was pleased to support the pair with the cost of travel to their courageous jump which raised more than £1,500 in vital funds for the breast cancer research charity.

The Company also sponsored this year’s Great Manx Shindig, helping to bring the sounds of Africa to the Isle of Man with the West Yorkshire community project ‘Drum Beat,’ which provided workshops over the weekend of the sell-out Manx festival.

It also assisted with Awakening - The Methodist Modern Art Collection, showcasing some of the most renowned religious art in Britain, while this December the Company has been named as a silver sponsor for the dazzling Christmas pantomime, Cinderella.

Sport

Sport

Ballacottier Primary School choir travelled to Wales in July to perform at Llangollen International Music Eisteddfod. The Steam Packet Company was pleased to support the pupils as they shined on an international stage, building confidence and experiencing different cultures.

Every year the Steam Packet Company, as part of its commitment to the Isle of Man, offers its support to a huge variety of initiatives, projects and events – helping our small island to thrive, flourish and shine.

To find out more, visit: www.steam-packet.com/information/news.

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UPFRONT

Cristina Breed: Human Age? 30 Likes? Positive people & holidays.

Dislikes? Negativity, jealousy, mean people.

If animal what would you be? A dolphin, they are fascinating, intelligent and playful.

Favourite food? Italian.

Where do you live? Onchan.

Where are you originally from?

Romania.

CRISTINA & VIVI

Where do you work? Director at TD Car Centre.

Do you have any more pets? No. Would you have any more pets?

Perhaps, Why not.

The best and worst thing about having a pet is? Best - the happiness and infinite love they give you.

Worst - leave them when you go on holidays, my heart breaks!

Interesting fact: Banging your head against a wall for one hour burns 150 calories lol!!

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Vivi Breed? Yorkie.

Age? 1.

Likes? Cuddling, playing fetch.

Dislikes? Naughty kids.

If human what would you be?

Heavy weight champion.

Why do you love your human?

She lets my sleep on her head and she spoils me.

If you had one wish what would you wish for? Cuddle and play with mummy 24/7.

Interesting fact: Mummy and Daddy came all the way to Poland to pick me up, we drove across 5 countries to get to my home.

Favourite food? Beef, chicken, apples.

Photo by Shan Fisher

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

THE WORLD HAS A NEW RECORDSETTING DIAMOND HERE ARE 6 THAT CAN RIVAL IT As the Pink Legacy diamond sells for $50million, Luke Rix-Standing reveals other wallet-busting prize gems.

Recently, a rare diamond was sold for a record price: known as the Pink Legacy, this gem has set the per-carat record for a pink diamond, selling for 50.3 million Swiss Francs (around $50 million or £38.5 million) after only five minutes of bidding at auction house Christie’s. The piece was bought by renowned jeweller Harry Winston, and re-named the Winston Pink Legacy.

Diamonds are always a la mode, and the Pink Legacy is the latest in a long line of extraordinary gems to empty the wallets of the wealthy. Here are more of the biggest and most beautiful diamonds ever to have set hearts a-fluttering.

1 2

3

2. The Incomparable Diamond A literal diamond in the rough, the aptly named Incomparable Diamond was discovered in 1989 by a young Congolese girl playing in a pile of rubble. The giant, internally flawless stone drew worldwide recognition for its deep amber colouring, and spent several years travelling the international museum circuit.

In 2013 it yielded its delights to Lebanese jewellers Mouawad, who mounted it, accompanied by 91 smaller white diamonds, into the most expensive necklace ever made.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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It emerged re-cut in London in time for the Great Exhibition of 1851, and was briefly property of an Ottoman Sultan before arriving in the US in 1911. Since 1958, it has been on display in the National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC, a subsidiary of the Smithsonian.

4. The Daria-i-noor Diamond Weighing in at 182 carats – colossal for a cut diamond – the Daria-i-noor dazzles and delights with it’s purity and pale pink gleam, one of the rarest naturally-occurring colourings. Long the property of the Iranian royal family, this coronation jewel survived the Iranian Revolution and sits on public display in the Central Bank of Iran in Tehran. Research suggests the stone may have been cut from a much larger, pinker diamond that studded the throne of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan – the creator of India’s Taj Mahal.

1. The Cullinan Diamond and the crown jewels The largest uncut diamond the world has ever seen, the Cullinan diamond was presented to Edward VII by the Transvaal government of South Africa in 1907, and quickly became the ultimate symbol of imperial majesty.

The 3,106-carat monolith was actually cut into ten different stones: The Cullinan I resides in the head of the crown sceptre, the Cullinan II in the base of the imperial crown, and Cullinans III and IV make up the Queen’s ceremonial brooch. These diamonds reside at the Tower of London under lock, key and the protection of ravens and Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters.

3. The Hope Diamond Stripped from the ground in 1666, this Forrest Gump of gemstones has born witness to an impressive swathe of human history. It spent years in the custody of the Kings of France, who marvelled at its pure blue sheen. After Louis XVI’s appointment with the guillotine, the gem was supposedly cursed, and was promptly looted from the royal storehouses.

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5. The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond Synonymous with beauty and glamour, Elizabeth Taylor loved diamonds almost as much as she loved getting married. Bought

by Richard Burton for his wife in 1968 – not to be confused with the Burton-Taylor Diamond the pair purchased a year later – the gemstone formerly known as the Krupp Diamond was Taylor’s favourite of all her vast collection.

Never one to leave gems lonely in a bank vault, she wore it as a ring, and it co-starred with her in many of her film appearances.

After Taylor’s death in 2011 the diamond was sold for nearly $9 million, setting a record per-carat price for a colourless diamond.

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6. The Dresden Green Diamond At 41 carats, it won’t be making any top ten lists for size, but the Dresden Green Diamond has charmed jewellery buffs across the globe with its uniquely rich green hue.

Its extraordinary colour comes from millennia of exposure to natural radioactive materials (don’t worry, it’s not contaminated), creating a natural marvel which has been on proud display in Dresden for over 200 years.

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UPFRONT

IT MUST BE CHRISTMAS!

BRITS SEARCHING FOR CHRISTMAS SONGS EARLY – AND THESE ARE THEIR FAVOURITES The search giant Google has revealed Britain’s ten most-searched Christmas songs, and its data suggests people start searching early.

Google data suggests Brits are already getting in the Christmas spirit, with searches for festive songs spiking sharply since Halloween.

The search giant said it had seen the start of the annual spike in interest for the term “Christmas songs” in October, and said Jingle Bells topped the list for searches in the United Kingdom.

According to Google, the 10 mostsearched Christmas songs since 2004 are as follows: 1. Jingle Bells (various) 2. Fairytale of New York (The Pogues featuring Kirsty McColl)

3. Last Christmas (Wham!)

4. All I Want For Christmas Is You (Mariah Carey) 5. White Christmas (Bing Crosby) 6. Silent Night (various) 7. Merry Christmas Everyone (Shakin’ Stevens) 8. Winter Wonderland (various) 9. Santa Baby (Eartha Kitt) 10. I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday (Wizzard) Google said it had seen an increased volume of search traffic for “Christmas” each year since 2004.

The company said it was difficult to pinpoint a date at which people typically start searching for Christmas songs, but data from its Google Trends dashboard suggests it started to increase slowly from late July this year.

SANTA BIKERS NEEDED FOR FESTIVE CHARITY RIDE-OUT! plan.com is proud to announce the charity fundraiser of the year – SANTA’S ON A BIKE. The company is inviting bikers from all corners of the Isle of Man (and further afield) to join them for a festive ride-out on Saturday 8 December.

All you need to do is get on your Santa costume, get on your bike and gather at the Grandstand for a festive ride out on 8 December.

The event, which has been running for a few years in the UK, is making its debut here on the island this year. www.santasonabike.im

COCA-COLA CHRISTMAS TRUCKS TO MAKE FEWER STOPS AMID SUGARY DRINKS BACKLASH The two lorries will visit 24 locations over the festive season, down from 38 last year.

Coca-Cola has scaled back its annual Christmas truck tour as a charity claimed resistance was growing to the company giving out free sugary drinks.

The tour will end in London on December 16 after stopping at 24 locations, down from 38 last year.

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The two 14-tonne lorries decorated with fairy lights and offering free 150ml cans of Coca-Cola, Zero Sugar and Diet Coke have been welcomed by councils and shopping centres since 1995.

But last year Public Health England issued guidance to local authorities warning about the impact seasonal marketing promotions can have on dietrelated diseases.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

In a futuristic laboratory tucked in a small town between two Swiss mountains, human remains are subject to temperatures hotter than lava, to pressures many thousands of times greater than those found at the deepest parts of the ocean and are chiselled, sliced and scratched until they are sold to people all over the world. This is the process of turning your deceased loved ones into diamonds.

ASHES TO ASHES, DUST TO… DIAMONDS? Words by: Joe Holland

Many of us choose to be cremated after we die, and the carbon stored in the remains can be used to create diamonds using in considerably less time than the billion years you would have to wait for a naturally formed one. They have been grown in laboratories since the 1950s and despite their clinical origins they are by no means fake or synthetic. Optically, physically and chemically identical to the diamonds that have been forged underground, ‘memorial diamonds’ can be made from cremation ashes within weeks at arriving at the lab.

The carbon in the ashes is isolated from any impurities and, using a High PressureHigh-Temperature machine, the carbon is converted into graphite inside a small ‘growth cell’. This growth cell contains a small amount of ‘starter diamond’ used to trigger the growth process of the memorial diamond. This starter diamond is infused with a metal alloy within the growth cell the finished diamond contains only the carbon from the ashes of the deceased. After withstanding temperatures of around 1300 degrees C and pressures of 870,000 psi, the rough diamond can be separated from the metal alloy, ready for cutting and shaping.

This is where the process becomes less about crystallography and more about the preferences of how the living choose to remember the dead. Depending on personal taste, the diamond can be cut into a variety of shapes or left uncut as it was when it was extracted from the HPHT machine. It can be set in rings, necklaces and earrings or displayed simply in a box.

Of course, turning cremation ashes into diamonds can be a very expensive process, but not necessarily out of the reach of everyone. For a small coloured diamond (0.03ct), you would expect to pay around £500, but for 2 larger, clear diamonds cut into hearts and set into a pair of BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

earrings you could be asked to pay several thousands of pounds. But, considering the costs of a funeral and burial: venue, officiate, coffin etc, perhaps a cremation coupled with a diamond you can keep forever, potentially passing it down to future generations may be a cost worth bearing.

There are several companies offering this unique form of remembrance and, rather than having gauche, over the top websites aimed at ‘high-end’ customers, their websites and social media pages are set out far more like a traditional funeral directors’, with the welcoming, respectful and peaceful atmosphere translated perfectly despite the different service being provided. A focus on the wishes of the both dead and the grieving is paramount. One company offers different product lines, with suitably

unobtrusive names like ‘Origin’, where a second carbon source like personal diaries or pictures are added to the ashes that make up the diamond, adding further layers of significance connecting the diamond to the bereaved customer.

The number of people opting to for cremation over burial is considerably higher than it was in the recent past, and the ability to turn our ashes into a tangible object that we can leave to the people we left behind is surely just a natural byproduct of that. But aside from the obvious fact that there’s money to be made turning people into jewellery for those who can afford the luxury, perhaps one reason there is an booming marketplace for memorial diamonds is that after you die, rather than rot into the ground, you can become something beautiful.

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UPFRONT

NEWS in NUMBERS 35 1 Posters are being displayed in licensed premises around the Island and distributed on social media channels in a bid to make people aware of a licensee’s powers and reduce the number of antisocial incidents. The posters feature black and yellow writing and emphasise the message that licensee-holders have the power to ask anyone to leave their premises, without giving a reason.

In summary, Section 35 of the Licensing Act (1995) provides a licensee the right: to refuse to serve customers without giving any reason; to refuse to admit any member of the public to licensed premises; and refuse to supply liquor to any person, if he considers it inadvisable to do so.

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With effect from April 1, 2019 anyone residing outside the Borough of Douglas will have access to all the library’s services for no membership charge, a facility previously extended to Douglas residents and residents of local authorities taking part in the shared services scheme. The new measure will see the £10 adult and £5 senior citizen annual subscription charge discontinued.

All those in full time education on the Island are set to receive a specially minted coin to mark the centenary of Armistice Day at the end of the First World War. They will each be given a distinctive 50 pence coin featuring red poppies, commissioned by the Treasury. Each coin will be presented in its own individual display case. The coin shows an image of the First World War soldier from the Douglas war memorial, with the words ‘Their name liveth for evermore’ and the dates ‘1914 1918’, beneath which are the Roman numerals ‘XI.XI.XI’ as a reminder of the final time and date of the War’s end. The edge of the coin is decorated with red poppies, with the image of the Queen on the obverse. Cupro-Nickel versions of these coins, without the red poppies, will be placed into general circulation.

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An oil and gas exploration licence has been awarded for part of the Isle of Man’s seabed. Crogga – an Isle of Man-based company set up by local residents with experience in the oil and gas sector – was awarded the licence following a bidding process at which two bids were received held between September and December 2017.

530,000

The construction project to replace Peel Harbour Road Bridge has started with an anticipated completion date of mid-March next year - a total of approximately 20 weeks.

The work is essential as the current hardwood timber bridge, which was built in 1938, has reached the end of its life. A rolling maintenance programme has been in place since the 1990s, but further deterioration means it must be replaced. After a comprehensive tender process the final capital cost is set at £530,000.

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7.85

Changes to the Isle of Man minimum wage rates came into effect on the 1st October 2018. The key changes include an increase to the main rate of the minimum wage and the removal of different rates for those aged 18 to 20 and 21 to 24, so that the main rate of the minimum wage will simply apply to all those aged 18 or over. The minimum wage for those aged 18 or over will become £7.85 an hour, representing an hourly increase of 35p for workers over 25 years, 65p for workers aged 21 to 24, and £1 for workers aged 18 to 20.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Where will 2019 take you?

Give an animal a home

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UPFRONT

OUR COMMUNITY

GIVE

THE MANX BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP HAVE JUST COMPLETED THEIR MOST SUCCESSFUL ISLE OF WOMAN CAMPAIGN YET! The final big event of this years campaign being a ladies luncheon organised by their Patron Sheila Dean who is Global CEO of Equiom raised a fantastic £20,000.

Pink Month. Over 200 bottles were sold and Fynoderee Distillery kindly donated £10 from each bottle sold to the Charity and the IOM Post Office posted them out for free.

For the last 5 years the Charity has turned the Island Pink to raise funds for the Manx Breast Unit. This year over 300 Pink Packs went out to businesses, Schools and Nurseries and they had a phenomenal response. The total raised amounted to a little over £100,000!.

They also held a Booby Bear coloring competition, for the children attending nurseries and schools. Mr Ian Davison kindly donated the 1st Prize which was a visit from Davison’s Ice Cream Van and a very special Pink Whippy! Douglas Corporation kindly turned their sunken Gardens Pink again this year as did the Tower of Refuge and Ramsey Swing Bridge.

Just some of the events held by the Charity during Pink October. Their annual Black Tie Ball which was sponsored by Crowe, Equiom and Zedra raised a phenomenal £34,000. A fantastic Pink Fyn train which was sponsored by Fynoderee Distillery and Tigi Hair. Guests had a special Pink Gin which had been distilled especially for the

This year the Charity held the Equiom Moonlight Walk in Douglas and the Crowe Peel Moonlight Walk . Both events were a fantastic success together attracting over 650 entrants. These events are also planned again for next year with hopefully a Ramsey

Moonlight Walk early spring.

Other events this year where ‘A Wheely Good Cause’ which was held at Onchan Stadium and the Rossborough Dress to Impress Fashion Show together with Tynwald Mills at the Abbey in Ballasalla.

The Charity which was registered in 2012 have to date raised over £2.7m. All money raised by them stays on the Island. The Charity have been in discussion with Nobles Hospital about how the money raised this month will be spent to help patients on Island.

Watch out for their new brother Charity which will be raising money for Diagnostic / Staging equipment for Prostate Cancer.

Again all money raised will stay on Island.

MUCH-LOVED LOCOMOTIVE RETURNS TO THE ISLAND WITH SUPPORT FROM THE STEAM PACKET COMPANY

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has helped bring Groudle Glen Railway’s star attraction back home after a complete restoration off-island.

Sea Lion, the railway’s oldest and only original locomotive, was discovered to need urgent repairs to her boiler at the end of the 2017 summer season. The damage was thought to be caused by the quality of the water supply, and although chemical treatments were added to lessen the corrosion issues, the condition worsened and the damage became irreversible.

The decision was made for the boiler to be sent to the UK for the repair work. It was hoped that Sea Lion would be back on track for this year’s Easter services, however

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further issues were later discovered and the locomotive had to be transported to the UK for a complete overhaul and repair works.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company was pleased to support Groudle Glen Railway by assisting with the cost of

transporting Sea Lion to and from the island.

After spending three months in North Bay Railway Engineering Services in Darlington, Sea Lion has returned back to the Isle of Man in pristine condition.

EVENTS

DR DAVID BULL’S BIRTHDAY PARTY HELD AT THE PRINCE ALBERT SUITE, EMPRESS HOTEL

A surprise birthday party for Dr David Bull who has worked for the NHS for 40 years was held on the 6th October. Dr David currently works at the Kensington group practice in Douglas as a Doctor and has done since 1985. The evening was celebrated with family, friends & colleagues past & present and the Health minister Hon David Ashford also attended.

Val Bull, wife to Dr David would like to say thanks to all that helped with the surprise, also singer Danielle Bridson and Gemma Lloyd-Jones photography for the wonderful photos.

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Photos by: Gemma Lloyd-Jones photography

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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EVENTS

MONITORS4KIDS BALL 2018

A charity ball in aid of the Monitors4Kids campaign raised more than ÂŁ20,000 to fund blood glucose monitors for type 1 diabetic children in the Isle of Man. Special guest for the evening was ex-England football player and type 1 diabetic Gary Mabbutt MBE. Manx pro-cyclist Sam Brand was also there in support of the parent-led campaign that is backed by the Manx Diabetic Group charity. Mart

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Photos by: Steve Babb (www.babbphotography.com)

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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EVENTS

THE WEDDING DAY OF ANISHA AND ANDREW JOHNSON

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Photos by: Shan Fisher (shansphoto.com)

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Ceremony: 18th August 2018 at Maughold Church Reception: Ballcooiley Estate, Ballaugh

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EVENTS

THE EVERYDAY HEROES ROCKIN’ OUR ISLAND The Heroes in the Community Awards returned to the Empress Hotel in November to recognise incredible local guys ‘n’ gals who do extraordinary things for the island’s community.

The awards also celebrated dedicated family members who have gone above and beyond for their relatives and youngsters who have shown true bravery in the face of adversity.

in the community awards

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Hosted by Manx Radio’s Chris Kinley and Emma Blackburn, this year’s gala ceremony had a rock ‘n’ roll theme, complete with chequered dance floor and boppin’ live entertainment.

Thanks to the generous support of sponsors, other local companies and attendees, the event also raised more the £10,000 for the Manx Radio Dream Catcher charity.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Heroes in the Community 2018 Winners nS kywind Group Child of Courage – Leon McEleney & Hayden Sweeney nA bsolute Scaffolding Heart of Gold – Helen Walmsley nA mbitions Recruitment Parent of the Year – Jo Fenton nR amsey Crookall Grandparent of the Year – Laura Lawson nM icrogaming PlayItForward Teacher of the Year – Kelly Charman, Bright Beginnings Nursery nW i-Manx Dedication to the Arts – Steve Brookes, The Studio Theatre nM anx Radio Dedication to Sport Under 18 - Sean Jackson nJ acksons Dedication to Sports Over 18 – George Peach, Southern 100 Club (accepted by Tim Glover picture left and Phil Edge centre) n I sle of Man Steam Packet Company Dedication to the Community - Julie Marshall n KPMG Dedication to Equality and Diversity - Adrian Untisz, The Community Farm

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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EVENTS

IOM EQUINE INAUGURAL PRIZE PRESENTATION

IOM Equine, a Facebook page, dedicated to the promotion of the local equine community, held their inaugural prize presentation sponsored by Evoke.im at the Best Western Hotel on Saturday 3rd November. The black tie event had just under 270 attendees – one of the largest social events regarding local sport to be held on the island this year. It was also the first event of its kind to be held on island within the equine community. It saw a coming together of the different equestrian disciplines for the evening. IOM Equine covers all equine events held on Island and reports on local riders of all disciplines competing off island. The presentation recognised local equestrians and their achievements throughout the year.

Organised by IOM Equine’s Director Amy Rothwell and Co-Admin Paul Hatton, they plan for this to be an annual event.

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Photos: Callum Staley (Cjs Photography)

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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EVENTS

AN IMPRESSIVE £20,000 RAISED AT ANNUAL CHARITY EVENT

More than 100 guests attended Equiom’s annual ladies lunch for Manx Breast Cancer Support Group (MBCSG) last month, raising a total of £20,000 for the charity.

The event, which was held at Portofino Restaurant in Douglas, featured an auction, luxury hamper prize draw and a raffle, presented by Equiom’s Global CEO Sheila Dean. More than 40 unique prizes were kindly donated by businesses and individuals both Islandbased and from afar.

Equiom’s Global CEO Sheila Dean, commented: ‘It was a fantastic event and I am so grateful to all of those who contributed prizes for both the raffle and the auction. Now in its fifth year, the ladies lunch is an anticipated event on everyone’s calendar and I am always overwhelmed by the generosity of our guests.

As patron of the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group, it really is incredible to see the difference fundraising makes to such a hardworking and inspiring charity. I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all of those who helped to make this event such a huge success. I am looking forward to next year already.’

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Photos by: Dollsfactory.net

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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UPFRONT

CONT...AN

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IMPRESSIVE £20,000 RAISED AT ANNUAL CHARITY EVENT

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

CULTURE

CULTURE NEWS

MANX-Y: SWEDISH ART COLLECTIVE BUILD HOMES FOR FAIRIES ACROSS ISLE OF MAN Isle of Man Residents have been left mystified recently after a series of tiny houses for fairies popped up across the Island. Taking to Facebook, locals have shared stunning images of the intricate houses – which world-renowned street artists Anonymouse MMX have now claimed responsibility for.

Measuring on average just 30cm high, the houses have been catching the attention of Manx locals since they appeared in October, with social media abuzz trying to work out who has created them.

Houses for the Little People have been found in four different spots on the Island, including...

Bradda Head A rugged headland that overlooks the beautiful Manx coastline. At the top stands Milner’s Tower, a monument built in 1871.

The house here is made from stone and has been designed to replicate the tower, and on looking through the window visitors can feast their eyes upon a tiny banquet table and chairs inside – making it truly fit for a royal.

Dhoon Glen 1 At the other side of the Island stands Dhoon Glen, one of the Island’s most dramatic glens and waterfalls. Here, a beautiful house delicately carved from wood has appeared. Complete with a comfy bed and even a miniature, intricately detailed, map of the Island, The Little Fellows that live here can enjoy stunning views of the waterfall.

Ballaglass Glen Lastly, a little Manx house has been found in Ballaglass Glen. A smaller version of the houses you’d find for humans on the Island, the Little Ones that live here can enjoy the peace and quiet of the Glen, with their house sitting next to a trickling stream.

Dhoon Glen 2 Another in Dhoon Glen, this time inside a majestic old tree. With brilliant roots covered in moss and mushrooms growing around the house, it looks truly magical.

In this home, the tiny windows have been made using stained glass where each pane is just 3cm in height – a breath-taking sight when the little lights inside are turned on.

Visit Isle of Man will be creating a trail map ready for visitors to find the houses for themselves from next spring, whilst those who want to plan their own folklore-based trip can visit www.visitisleofman.com to find out more.

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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1C ameron Skehan 2A ndrew Taylor Glen Mooar 3R osy Johnson Port Erin 4G emma Dimsdale ballaglass Geln 5D aniel Magee Douglas Bay-

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6P ort Erin Paddleboards - 12ft Shark 7M ichael F. Griffiths Maughold Lighthouse 8W illiam Galbraith Peel Castle 9A lan Denton - Archallaghan 10 Janette Phair 11 Clare Bettison

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CULTURE

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS …

If you’re looking for arty Christmas presents then there is a lot of choice this month. New creative hub The Engine House is showing work from two very different artists – Sally Black, who is known for her large scale detailed oil paintings, often natural history based, and Chrissie Moss, who works in inks, watercolour and pencil and is particularly well known for her Manxpetsinpencil illustrations.

The Engine House is situated in the old Canada Life building on Alexandra Road in Castletown, and this exhibition continues until 15 December (opening hours 11-3 Monday – Saturday).

your favourite work in the Peoples’ Vote category. Prizes will be awarded on 2 February and the exhibition continues until 9 February 2019.

At Tynwald Mills in St John’s, the Affordable Art Fair continues - and if you’re quick, you may still be able to buy a ticket in the Postcard Lottery for a framed postcard-sized work from a local artist, which at £20 tend to go very fast. Even if you miss that opportunity there are plenty of other art works for sale which will make ideal Christmas presents, or to just keep for yourself. The Isle Gallery is gradually

Words by Suzy Holland

rebranding as Isle Contemporary– a name which better illustrates the variety of artists and work in all mediums which the Gallery exhibits and sells – operating in conjunction with ArtReach Studios, which offers workshops for all ages in a variety of mediums. These workshops will continue in the upstairs space and will exist side-byside with the extended exhibition space – a true combination of art and art education.

The Affordable Art Fair is the first Isle Contemporary exhibition to make full use of the downstairs space and continues until mid-January.

In Port St Mary, Studio 42 is exhibiting work from perennial favourites Nancy Corkish and David Byrne. Their stunning yet gentle landscapes already grace many homes and public buildings around the Island, and further afield, and this is your opportunity to pick one up for yourself.

‘New Paintings and Holiday Memories’, by the local painters often described as the ‘unofficial King and Queen of Watercolour’, promises to be an absolute delight, and is open until Christmas.

This year’s Annual Art Competition, held at the Hodgson Loom Gallery in Laxey, has ‘Light’ as the theme. The exhibition opens on 12 December and there are always some hidden treasures there: the exhibition is open to all, professional, amateur or student, and often features entries from some of the Island’s best known artists, photographers and ceramicists. Most of the work is for sale, but even if you don’t find anything to buy, you can vote for

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

agenda lite n

ON THE AGENDA n DECEMBER 2019

BUISNESS NEWS - ISLAND NEWS

I S L E O F M A N B R A N D V O I C E - R L 3 6 0 P R E PA R E F O R ( E A R LY ) R E T I R E M E N T

MOVERS & SHAKERS - APPOINTMENTS

Business news

Lisa Motley, Matt Davies, Lynsey Smith, Amy Killip, Alex Catlow, Bayleigh Mitchell and Danny Foulis.

Browne Craine to support charity Granite Mann Challenge

B

rowne Craine & Co is excited to share that it will be supporting The Children’s Centre’s Annual Granite Mann Challenge next year. Taking place on Sunday 22nd September 2019 at Cringle, the Granite Mann Challenge is the only off road triathlon in the Isle of Man in which participants can take part in either as an individual or as a team.

The triathlon will include a 400 metre swim in the reservoir, followed by a 10 kilometre mountain bike ride using the trails around the plantation with the final element being a 5 kilometre scenic trail run using the tracks in the plantation.

Browne Craine wanted to get involved and support the event because it helps raise money for a fantastic local charity and its staff regularly take part in events which are organised throughout the year by The Children’s Centre. In September, a Browne Craine ladies team (Alex Catlow, Lynsey

Smith and Amy Killip) took part in the Granite Mann Challenge and were the first ladies team to cross the finish line.

“We’re so excited to be supporting the Granite Mann Challenge,” said Lynsey Smith, director at Browne Craine. “This year myself, Amy and Alex took part in the event and thoroughly enjoyed it. We had no expectations about what we’d take from the event but we were the first ladies team to finish! With the triathlon being off road, there is no other event like it. The event was fun and very well-organised so I’d encourage anyone who is thinking about taking part, whether it’s by themselves or as a team, to sign up and give it a go! It’s testing of course but you won’t regret it.

Next year we are taking part again and we’ve managed to encourage a few others to take part in it too. The Children’s Centre is a fantastic charity and we hope we can help them raise lots of money through this

event.”

The Children’s Centre and Browne Craine have agreed a three year sponsorship which will see Browne Craine supporting the event until at least 2021.

The charity has always been close to the hearts of Browne Craine; in 2016, director Craig Mitchell climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in aid of The Children’s Centre and raised over £6,500 for the charity.

“We’d like to thank Browne Craine for supporting the Granite Mann Challenge for the next three years and for all they’ve done for us to date,” said Lisa Motley, Fundraising Coordinator at The Children’s Centre. “The event has been a great success for the last few years and I hope we can continue to grow it. We want to encourage everyone at any ability to come and take part in this event and just enjoy themselves!”

To find out more about the event or to express interest in taking part in the Granite Mann Challenge 2019, please contact The Children’s Centre fundraising team: fundraising@thechildrenscentre.org.im.

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ON THE AGENDA

TransferTravel.com awarded prestigious TrustSeal by Sharing Economy UK

T

ransferTravel.com, the unwanted travel exchange site, has recently been recognised and endorsed with a TrustSeal by Sharing Economy UK. Sharing Economy UK sets out a standard of principles that promotes trust and transparency within sharing economy businesses, and underpins a sense of assurance for both providers and consumers of TransferTravel.com services.

The coveted TrustSeal sets TransferTravel.com alongside the vanguard of the sharing economy community; Air BnB, Deliveroo and GumTree are some of the previous recipients of the Seal.

The TrustSeal was developed by worldclass businesses and sharing economy experts, and is a respected accolade awarded to adhering businesses. Recipients of the TrustSeal must satisfy six broad principles of good sharing practice, which covers criteria such as security and data protection, transparent communications and pricing, and identity and credential verification.

Simon Powell, CEO and Founder at

TransferTravel.com, said: “We are delighted to have our services recognised with the TrustSeal. We work hard at TransferTravel. com to give our customers complete peace of mind when exchanging unwanted travel itineraries.

“The TrustSeal is confirmation that our practices and policies are morally and ethically sound. It is wonderful to be endorsed by Sharing Economy UK and have our credentials and rectitude approved by such a respected board.”

The accolade allows the company to display the merit on their digital properties and will surely encourage new and existing customers to exchange their unwanted

travel plans with TransferTravel.com above any of their competitors.

TransferTravel.com were also recently the headline partner at the ABI Travel Insurance Conference, which took place earlier this month on Tuesday 9th October at the Head Office of the Association of British Insurers in London’s Tower Hamlets area.

The conference addressed the changing habits of travellers and the role that insurance plays in protecting holidaymakers. It is a highlight of the British Insurer’s calendar. Simon represented TransferTravel.com as a panel speaker.

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Business news

STUDENTS TO SWAP CLASSROOM FOR CONSTRUCTION SITE

L

ocal students interested in a career in construction will have the opportunity to visit the exciting new Premier Inn construction site this month, thanks to Dandara.

The award-winning developer is running a series of guided tours of the site to showcase the fantastic opportunities and range of careers available within the Dandara Group.

Project manager Len Arnold will be leading the site tours for year 10 and 11 students as part of the Employability and Skills event at the Villa Marina, organised by the Department for Education, Sport and Culture.

He says it’s an ideal opportunity for students interested in construction.

‘It’s not often that students with an interest have the chance to see a working site in operation, particularly on a project of this kind,’ he explained.

‘Premier Inn is the UK’s largest hotel brand and the development is progressing well.

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‘I am sure students considering a career in the industry will be keen to get a first-hand, behind-the-scenes look at this development, experience what it’s like to be on an active site and learn more about the health and safety procedures and construction process.’

Dandara is building the hotel for the popular chain which has more than 780 hotels around the UK. The 85-bedroom hotel in Market Street in Douglas incorporates five floors of accommodation, a restaurant and bar, and is due for completion in Spring 2019.

Programme Manager for Construction at University College Isle of Man, Corelli Bentham, added: ‘This isn’t just for bricklaying students but a wide range of young people are likely to be interested, whether that be potential future architects, structural engineers, interior designers, plumbers, electricians, tilers, plasters and the like.

‘Although the visits are predominantly open to year 10 and 11 students, students

at UCM would also be welcome to visit the Premier Inn site, and anyone interested in joining one of the tours can register by emailing corelli.bentham@ucm.ac.im.’

ON THE AGENDA

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TEN EFFECTIVE WAYS TO PREPARE FOR (EARLY) RETIREMENT

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to quit work and devote your time solely to the things you love?

Of course you have, you’re only human.

For some people – let’s call them ‘the lucky ones’ – the point at which they are actually going to do this is fast approaching.

They’re about to retire early, or right on time, and they’re going to do all of those things they’ve been dreaming about for decades.

Or, are they?

There’s no question we’re all going to retire but what remains up for debate is how we’re going to occupy our time when that day finally comes. And it all boils down to the usual. Money.

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ON THE AGENDA

If you don’t make provision for early retirement, or indeed retirement at all, you’re setting yourself up for a fall. Instead of relaxing days around the pool or adrenalin fuelled skydiving trips, you may instead find yourself couch-bound, counting your pennies and watching daytime TV.

Essentially, now is the time to plan and save - here are 10 ways to get started: 1. DETERMINE WHAT KIND OF LIFESTYLE YOU WANT IN RETIREMENT.

This will obviously determine the kind of money your retirement will require.

Are you happy living the quiet life or are you going to go big and travel the world in a luxury yacht?

Plus you need to factor in contingency for the ‘just in case’ situation (unexpected medical bills, for example).

2. ANALYSE YOUR SPENDING/ QUESTION YOUR SPENDING DECISIONS.

You know the big overspends – if you pay for a luxury holiday twice a year and max out your credit card, then you know you’re probably not thinking too far into your financial future. That old saying ‘looking after the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves’ applies here too – do you really need that weekly takeaway?

4. INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF YOUR INCOME THAT YOU SAVE.

If you’re in debt now, how do you expect to save? High interest loans and credit cards are a killer but are often inevitable if, say, you want a car. The best advice is to work out a ‘quick and dirty’ repayment plan. Just get it off the books as soon as possible, then you can start looking to the future.

RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE

8. GET SERIOUS ABOUT LIFESTYLE CHANGES

5. START AN EMERGENCY FUND

To help avoid dipping into your ‘retirement wage’ set up a separate emergency fund. That way your finances are structured enough for you to have this pot of cash to use when, as they tend to do, the inconvenient life crises (crashed car, broken boiler) hit.

6. START A PROFITABLE SIDE VENTURE

3. TACKLE YOUR DEBT/PAY OFF HIGH-INTEREST DEBTS AS FAST AS YOU CAN.

Where possible, pay yourself first before paying the bills. Think of a certain portion of your monthly salary as a ‘retirement wage’. Make sure, though, that you don’t start dipping into it. Start thinking long-term and view it as stealing from your future you.

This one can be tricky – do you have time? Will it impinge on your job? – but, where you can, a nice little side earner can be a goldmine. You might be building your lucrative future career as a big social media star, but putting your wages from your part-time bar job into savings can be useful too.

7. SET UP A CONTINUAL INCOME SOURCE/CREATE A PASSIVE INCOME STREAM

Making money in your sleep - that has to be a goal doesn’t it? If you’re lucky enough to have a second home don’t let it sit there empty, rent it out and watch your bank balance thank you. A simpler version of this could be renting out a room in your house.

Do you need all the ‘stuff’ you have in your life? Do you need to collect vinyl records? Will your future you thank you for all those back issues of Kerrang magazine? No? Then go minimalist – suddenly excess will be an alien concept and an obvious by-product of that will be less spend/more saved.

9. ACCUMULATE SAVINGS BUT ALSO INVEST A SET AMOUNT REGULARLY

Setting aside a regular amount of money to save is vital but how about investing a regular amount of money and (hopefully) watching it grow? You may find you’re a whizz at playing the markets but most people will find they need a little help from the experts in this area, hence point 10.

10. MEET REGULARLY WITH A FINANCIAL ADVISER

This really is the key to all of the above.

A good financial adviser will help you go through your spending, make suggestions on where you can make savings and talk you through ideas and any investment plans you might want to consider. Like RL360, many companies providing investment products only do so through a financial adviser.

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movers & shakers

Standard Bank of South Africa appoints new head of Isle of Man branch

S

tandard Bank has appointed Sameera Areff as Head of Standard Bank of South Africa’s Isle of Man branch.

Sameera has moved to the Island with her family from Johannesburg, South Africa.

The Isle of Man is an important centre for Standard Bank’s Wealth International division, but it is also home to a branch of the Bank’s South African business.

Sameera and her team work with colleagues in South Africa to manage foreign currency funding for the Bank and its African operations, as well as facilitating the funding needs of Standard Bank Group clients.

Sameera said: “The Isle of Man is important to Standard Bank of South Africa as it provides the Bank with a well-regulated and globally recognised jurisdiction, together with the capability to access international funding and placement markets. The branch is able to operate with main international currencies, with the US Dollar as its base currency.”

On moving to the Isle of Man, Sameera said: “South Africa will always be home but we did want to experience life in another

country. When the opportunity came, I didn’t need much convincing as I had been travelling to the Island for the last 15 years on business. Living near the sea was always a desire of mine and now that I do, it is unbelievable!

“There are huge cultural and economic differences between South Africa and the Isle of Man and I’m so impressed by the quality of service, infrastructure and the respect people have for the law and other citizens. The Island is such a great place, with a good system that promotes economic participation for those who want to do something for themselves”.

“The hardest part of moving to another country is settling in. My family has embraced the change thanks to a great support network of friends and our fantastic relocation team. The people have been friendly and courteous and always talk about how we were barmy to leave behind the sunshine of South Africa. The Island offers lots to make up for that though and I have heard of the Manx saying that a rainy day is never a wasted day - hopefully my view will remain the same after living

through our first winter on the Island!”

Describing herself as a ‘foodie and baker at heart’, Sameera has been enjoying discovering the Island’s many coffee shops and restaurants since she arrived and is looking forward to a wonderful festive season and to immerse herself in the Island’s great heritage and beauty.

David Bushe named in top 100 leading fund selectors 2018

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HIreland International Wealth’s Head of Investments David Bushe has been named as one of the top 100 leading fund selectors in 2018 by Citywire’s Wealth Manager. This is the seventh annual Top 100 guide to the leading industry individuals in private client investment management.

A director of WHIreland’s international business since it was established in 2013, David’s career has taken him from private banking through to portfolio management and institutional asset management working around the world in international financial services such as Jersey, South Africa and Barbados.

Commenting on the announcement, David said it was an honour to have been selected as one of the industry’s leading lights.

“I am delighted to have been named as one of Citywire’s Top 100 Wealth Managers and the announcement is a reflection of the approach that we take at WHIreland International Wealth,” he said.

“I and the local investment team are passionate about investments and love what we do and our focus has always been to match portfolio construction to our clients’ investment aspirations and attitude towards risk.”

WHIreland International Wealth Managing Director Will Corrin added: “We are delighted that David has been recognised by the industry in this way and it demonstrates the calibre of the team that we have established here in the Isle of Man. This is a further endorsement of how quickly we have established ourselves as a respected provider of investment services on the Island.”

“As Citywire Wealth Manager acknowledged when announcing its Top 100, the industry is changing and nearly one third of the companies represented were featured for the first time, so it is vitally important that we continue to attract and retain the industry’s leading talent.”

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ON THE AGENDA

HSBC staff ‘graduate’ from future leadership programme

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group of eighteen banking professionals from across HSBC’s Channel Islands and Isle of Man offices have ‘graduated’ from the Bank’s dedicated leadership programme.

‘HSBC Accelerate’, now in its second year, is a six-month programme designed in partnership with Cranfield University, to identify top talent at the Bank, prepare future leaders and support their development.

The programme includes focused coaching, networking opportunities, plus group and individual learning sessions, all aimed at giving participants the tools and direction to progress their careers.

As well as helping them to build vital skills required for successful and inclusive leadership roles, the programme also gave participants an opportunity to work on real leadership projects with a number of the banks local Community Partners.

This year, those Community Partners were Every Child Our Future, Jersey Youth Service, Jersey Child Care Trust, the Youth Commission for Guernsey and Alderney, and Junior Achievement Isle of Man. Each charity receiving approximatley 100 hours of pro-bono professional support through the programme.

Commenting on the programmes success, Tracy Garrad, CEO, HSBC Channel Islands and Isle of Man, said: “I sincerely congratulate all those who took part in and completed our second Accelerate Programme at HSBC. Accelerate is a key initiative for retaining and nurturing local talent at the Bank, by giving our aspiring leaders a platform to challenge themselves and to focus their professional development in a myriad of ways. As a result, we are able to have a pipeline of really talented people ready to take on senior leadership opportunities

when they come along.”

“In addition, it is one of the Bank’s key objectives across the world to make a positive contribution to the communities where it is based. It’s wonderful that through our Accelerate Programme, we can also provide a considerable amount of professional support to local charities, which will have a long-lasting strategic impact for them.”

Partnering with Cranfield University those graduating were: Alistair Philp, Will Paine, David Greenwood, Marcelo Gazzi, Richard Cannard, Simon Lidbury, Deep Jobanputra, Kris Moors and Claire Lilley in Jersey; Jason Liddy, Stefan Hager, Rob Thomson, Ed Thomas, Janette Mignot and Sean Conlan in Guernsey; and Shirley Foley, Jim Woodall and Andrew Whittaker in the Isle of Man.

The Appleby Isle of Man Bursary Scheme Focusing on local talent The scheme provides financial assistance for those wishing to pursue a career in law.

For more details or to apply, please visit applebyglobal.com/careers.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

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movers & shakers

Sure appoints new head of sales in the Isle of Man

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ocal telecoms company Sure has appointed Dee McLoughlin as head of enterprise sales.

Dee is responsible for leading and managing Sure’s recently expanded business team of six account directors, looking after the company’s enterprise and SME customers.

Sure has enjoyed double digit growth via its investment in not only its team but also in new technologies and infrastructure, which enables the delivery of a wide and diverse product portfolio to its customers.

These services include: broadband, fixed voice lines, data centre, professional technical design and implementation, cloud computing, private circuits, telephone systems and security solutions to both corporate and public sector clients.

With ten years’ experience in business development and sales, Dee joins Sure with extensive knowledge of the Isle of Man business market, technology and sales.

“Sure has invested considerably in

the Isle of Man with the launch of its own fibre network and the range of business services it now provides on the island. It’s an exciting time to be joining the business as it continues to grow and drive real competition on the island,” said Dee. Jon McCulloch, group sales director, said: “We’re thrilled to have Dee lead the enterprise sales team. Her experience in sales management in the local market and her understanding of today’s technologies made Dee a great fit for our business and our customers. I’m looking forward to working closely with Dee in our constant drive to offer an exceptional customer experience, coupled with services that best meet our customers’ needs.”

Mike Phillips, chief executive of Sure Isle of Man, said: “I’m delighted that Dee has joined the Sure family to not only lead our enterprise sales team but also play an active and crucial role in supporting our customers and developing our business further.”

ON THE AGENDA

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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FAI RHAV EN A 4 BEDROOM DETACHED EXECUTIVE FAMILY HOME

This stylish 4 bedroomed detached executive family home occupies a private position in this highly sought-after location only a few minutes’ drive from the centre of Douglas.

Offering an excellent standard of contemporary accommodation throughout, Fairhaven has a generous number of reception rooms perfect for family entertaining and relaxing.

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Executive family home

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Located in a desirable development

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4 double bedrooms

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Spacious entrance hall with gallery landing

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Luxury modern fitted dining kitchen

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Cinema room

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Conservatory

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Landscaped front and rear gardens

LUCERNE COURT, DOUGLAS | PRICE £1.295m

VIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED VISIT: dandara.com OR CALL: 615000 BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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FEATURED PROPERTY

Here are some of the latest instructions from local agents...

£249,950 HARNEL, ROYAL DRIVE, ONCHAN Traditional mid-terrace house situated in a sought after location within walking distance of local shops, Port Jack Glen and douglas Promenade. The property has been renovated with modern fixtures/fittings and there are distant sea views.

The accommodation briefly comprises; lounge, stunning dining kitchen, two double bedrooms, attic hobbies room/occasional bedroom and there is a luxury family bathroom. Prior to the staircase being fitted in the first floor landing the property had a third bedroom which was taken out to accommodate the stairs.

To the front there is a newly laid lawn garden and at the rear there is an easy to maintain courtyard style garden wiuth access to the single garage.

LEARN MORE: 01624 667788

£284,000 32 EMPRESS APARTMENTS, DOUGLAS A superb spacious modern purpose built 4th floor apartment presented in immaculate condition and finished to an exacting standard.

Situated on a convenient much sought after location enjoying breathtaking views. The accommodation comprises a large light and airy open plan lounge/diner with stunning coastal views, a beautiful modern open plan kitchen (fitted to an extremely high standard), 2 double bedrooms (lovely modern master en-suite), a secure intercom system and private underground secure parking.

LEARN MORE: 01624 662820

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£995,000 SCARLETT HOUSE, 45 KNOCK RUSHEN, CASTLETOWN This exceptional detached large family home is presented in 'Show Room' condition and offers light, airy and spacious accommodation with top class fittings and finishings throughout. The property is a short level walk from all Castletown shops and amenities with public schools and airport a mere 5 minute drive away. The accommodation comprises 3 generous reception rooms, fully fitted kitchen, cloakroom and utility. Upstairs across two floors are 5 double bedrooms, master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe and ensuite bathroom. There are 2 further ensuites plus family shower room. Outside is a detached double garage with large paved parking area and a large enclosed lawned rear garden with flagged patio and raised decked area.

LEARN MORE: 01624 623778

£495,000 FORT WILLIAM, HEAD ROAD, DOUGLAS This superb town house has been fully re-furbished throughout yet retains many original features. The property is situated in an elevated position and benefits from magnificent views across Douglas Bay and the harbour. The accommodation is served by an efficient oil fired central heating system together with uPVC double glazed sliding sash windows.

A front garden laid to lawn with stunning views and steps lead down to a lockable gate leading onto South Quay. Enclosed rear yard with spiral staircase to Head Road. Access from the rear to the house and access to the utility room.

LEARN MORE: 01624 620606 ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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

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

HUGH LOGAN

Riba

manaGinG DiReCToR PRinCiPal aRChiTeCT

“Good design can and will

add value to your property.

”

— Hugh Logan

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

Principal & Founder, Hugh Logan Architects

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

A one hour initial consultation is free of charge.

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

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

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

THE OLD CHAPEL 32-34 MALEW STREET CASTLETOWN ISLE OF MAN IM9 1AF

Exclusion zone

HandyMann HugH Logan arcHitects

Bridge court

Phone 01624 825872

10 Bridge street

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

H L a r c H i t e c ts L i M i t e d D i r e c to r s g H Lo g a n / L M Lo g a n / r g B a r r s / e P CARPENTRY PAINTING & DECORATING i s L e o f M a n c o M Pa n y n o . 1 2 8 4 2 8 c TILING MAN & VAN Use of colour JET WASH PATIO CLEANING UPVC CLEANING On printed matter, red is preferred, and if not red, then

Size a s s o c i at e d o f f i c e i n a i g B u r t H , L i V e r P o o L r i B a c H a r t e r e d P r ac t i c e • Minimum size is 150 pixels (20mm width) • Preferred size is 300 pixels (40mm width)

black, but practices may use any colour – e.g. their own house colour. The ink for the preferred red is Pantone 032, or if printing out of four-colour process, please match using 90% magenta, 90% yellow. For the web, please use one of the ready-coloured gif files.

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

Call Paul for a quote :: T: 07624 388207 H OURLY RAT ES £1 5-£25

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8 WAYS TO HELP THE WILDLIFE IN YOUR GARDEN THIS WINTER

Winter is a time when wildlife needs an extra helping hand, to ensure that birds, hedgehogs and other visitors to the garden make it through the colder months.

The extreme weather, lack of food and changes in sheltering habits can all play a part and make this time of year tricky for the animals living outdoors - but how can you help them?

Here are eight ways to help the wildlife on your doorstep through the winter months...

1. Keep bird feeders and baths topped up

Many birds lose 10% of their body weight overnight in cold weather and expend a lot of energy flying to feeders, so you need to keep your bird feeders and baths topped up so they don't have a wasted journey.

Provide them with a variety of foods, from seed and suet to fruit, dried mealworms and grated cheese. Avoid anything salty like salted peanuts and lose the net strings that fat balls come in, as birds can get their feet and beaks stuck in them. Don't put out cooking fat or vegetable oil, which don't agree with birds.

Site feeders or nest boxes at a high level, to make them less accessible to cats. There are many seed mixes on the market, but avoid those which contain a lot of wheat. They appeal chiefly to pigeons.

Finches and tits go for sunflower seeds, while blackbirds and thrushes love fruit and berries including pyracanthas and cotoneasters. Blackbirds enjoy dried fruit, such as sultanas.

2. Be berry aware

Birds rely on berries and seeds to keep their food supply up during the winter months, so if you are using berries for Christmas decorations and have netted them for protection, leave at least some berries for the birds.

3. Rotten wood is good

After autumn pruning, don't dispose of all

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your rotten wood and bark, because these provide much needed shelter for many overwintering insects including ladybirds.

4. Feed the bees

Occasionally, bees will emerge from their winter hibernation on milder days. Treat them to a 50:50 sugar and water solution.

Certain kinds of bumblebee, including the buff-tailed bumblebee, are seen in winter gardens on sunny days. Choose a sunny spot for plants which are nectar-rich including the stinking hellebore and winterflowering heather.

5. Keep areas untidy

Don't worry too much about sweeping up all the leaves because they can provide shelter for a range of mammals and insects. Among the best hiding areas is under hedges, which should remain dry and relatively warm.

Pests including slugs and snails often hide under leaves or other garden debris, providing tasty morsels for birds, frogs and hedgehogs.

6. Don't let ponds freeze over

If you have fish, they need oxygen to survive - and when a pond freezes over it dramatically reduces oxygen content, so stick a tennis ball on the surface of your pond to stop it freezing.

If it does freeze, get a pan of boiling water and place the pan carefully on the ice, so that it gradually thaws to make a hole. Place old roof tiles and logs in sunny spots near

the pond to give shelter to frogs and toads.

7. Look after insects

While many insects hibernate in the winter, occasionally on sunny days some will emerge from their slumber in search of pollen. Good sources include ivy, which flowers in winter, and mahonia, which produces clusters of sweetly-scented zingy yellow flowers from November to March.

Butterflies and moths overwinter as pupae or caterpillars in long grass or at the base of plants, or even just below the soil, so keep your grass as long as you can stand and don't cut back all of your perennials, as other insects including spiders may take refuge in the hollow stems.

8. Help hedgehogs

In mild winters, hedgehogs can remain active in the garden through November and December. If hedgehogs are hibernating in your garden, just be aware that they may have found refuge in your compost heap, so be careful when turning it.

While their general diet consists of slugs, worms, beetles and caterpillars, in cold snaps the number of insects and pests will be much more scarce. Give hedgehogs extra food such as meat-based wet dog or cat food, hedgehog food or cat biscuits. They will also need a shallow dish of fresh water.

Don't give them milk, as they are lactoseintolerant.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

OAK PARK

N O W AVA I L A B L E I N P E E L

New release An exciting new range of 2 & 3 bedroom homes, designed exclusively for Oak Park in Peel.

2 bed homes from ÂŁ197,450 3 bed homes from ÂŁ237,950

Visit dandara.com or call 615000 for full details Sales office: Victoria St, Douglas. Open 7 Days.

discover

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. Computer Generated Images shown for indication purposes only.

APPETITE

Words by: Jamie at the Wine Cellar we stock their Crémant de Loire rosémade purely from Cabernet Franc which boasts freshness, fine bubbles and raspberry and blackcurrant flavours.

DIAMOND DEALS FOR CHRISTMAS WITH THIS MONTH’S THEME BEING “DIAMOND” I HAD TO GET CREATIVE IN CHOOSING MY SUBJECT MATTER SINCE INITIALLY, THE ONLY THINGS TO SPRING TO MIND WERE TARTRATE CRYSTALS AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS “WINE DIAMONDS”, AND CRYSTAL HEAD VODKA WHICH IS TRIPLE FILTERED THROUGH HERKIMER DIAMONDS. Ultimately, I landed on some of the diamonds in our range at The Wine Cellar (and there are plenty of them for Christmas); more specifically sparkling wines which rival Champagne. It’s not that long ago that Champagne was the go-to celebration drink, but as we all know the more accessible, slightly less dry more wallet-friendly Prosecco stepped into the limelight and has been taking centre stage ever since. The less fashionable Cava is much more akin to Champagne but has never enjoyed the same success as its’ Italian cousin. For fizz on a budget I would always recommend a high end sparkling wine over a low end Champagne, particularly if the producer is an extension of a Champagne house.

That’s where Crémant comes in; collectively France’s finest sparkling wines made outside the Champagne region in a number of areas, using a variety of grapes and the traditional method to achieve similar complexity.

feature any Burgundian grape varieties.

Burgundy (just south of Champagne) is famous for producing fine, still examples of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, two key contributors to Champagne and therefore Crémant also. The term replaced “Bourgogne Mousseux” which is now reserved for sparkling red Burgundy, whilst Crémant de Bourgogne refers to sparkling white and rosé.The traditional method in Burgundy is subject to stricter regulations than in Champagne. Southern Crémants can be full and soft and are good value alternatives to bigger styles of Champagne, whilst those from the north are lighter and crisper.

Maison Simonnet-Febvre is the only winery in Chablis that produces Crémant de Bourgogne. Their Crémant de Bourgogne Brut (available at The Wine Cellar) is round, soft and creamy, with nutty, apple, peach and cherry flavours and a biscuit finish.

Fine concentration and finesse really help this wine stand out amongst Champagne alternatives punching well above its weight.

Crémant de Loire, also created in 1975, can be white or roséand includes most of the middle Loire’s wide palette of grape varieties focusing on Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir. L’anglois Chateau is a Loire offshoot of Bollinger Champagne, benefitting from their expertise and high standards of quality without the price-tag – Bolly on a budget! Here at The Wine Cellar

It would be foolish to think that Prosecco represents Italy’s only foray into sparkling wine production as their own traditional method fizz from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Bianco is Franciacorta. Crafted in Brescia in the north Italian region of Lombardy, the name derives from the Middle Ages when monasteries were exempt from taxation. They were called “francae curtes” or “free courts”. Quality in the region is generally high with a real capacity for ageing. There is often a focus on organic and biodynamic viticulture which keeps sulphites to a minimum; supposedly reducing the risk of a hangover. Some can be sensitive over branding Franciacorta “Italian Champagne” believing that it should be lauded in its own right and does indeed possess its own unique identity. Either way this is a sophisticated step up from Prosecco.

Ferghettina was created in 1990 by Roberto Gatti, one of the region’s early pioneers.

He creates wines of exceptional finesse and individuality through a combination of skilful blending, meticulous attention to detail and extended bottle maturation, which is why we chose to showcase one of his in our range. “Milledi” is pure Chardonnay which results in a fresh, elegant, floral wine with complex brioche and citrus notes, textured mouthfeel and fine persistent mousse. The stunning square pyramidesque bottle is equally show-stopping and since it is impressively packaged for Christmas makes a superb gift.

So now that you know the tricks of the trade for selecting the best fizz we would love to help make any occasion you’re planning sparkle. And of course if it’s Champagne that you’re after we have a superb range to choose from – sadly unlike the meaning of “Franciacorta” we’re not exempt from taxes, but we do offer a discount on any mix of 12 or more bottles.

We have got some incredible deals coming up for Christmas. We also offer bespoke gifts tailored perfectly to your preferences and budget, whether this be a 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 or 12 bottle gift, all will be hand-selected, packaged and presented beautifully for you – delivered island wide, as required. We’d love to see you in store to help you send the perfect gifts. Merry Christmas from The Wine Cellar!

Created in 1975 Crémant de Bourgogne can

THE WINE CELLAR • THE MILESTONE • PEEL ROAD • DOUGLAS • IM1 5ED TELEPHONE: 01624 611793 • EMAIL: sales@thewinecellar.im

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Recipes

APPETITE

Eggnog is the greatest thing to divide people this Christmas: Here’s how to make your own...

Ingredients: (Serves 2) n 700ml whole milk n 200ml double cream n 1 vanilla bean pod, split and seeds removed n 2 cinnamon sticks n 1tsp freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for garnish n 5 cardamom pods n 6 Heritage Breeds Copper Marans eggs, separated n 150g cup golden sugar

n 100ml dark bourbon n Handful of crushed pistachios, hazelnuts and almonds for the garnish Method: 1. In a saucepan bring the milk, cream, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom to the boil over a medium heat. Once boiling take off the heat.

2. In a seperate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until thick.

3. Gently pour in the milk mixture and whisk until combined.

4. Add in the bourbon (at this stage, the mixture will keep in the fridge for three days).

5. Before serving, beat the egg whites in a bowl until soft peaks form.

6. Gently fold into the eggnog mixture.

7. Pour into two glasses, garnish with nuts and enjoy.

Make cookie dough You might be over biscuits at the moment (yes, even ones with cheese), but in a week or so, your sweet tooth might be back, and then some cookie dough will come in handy. Whip up your favourite cookie dough recipe, stuffed with chopped chunks of any Advent calendar chocolate or After Eights you have left, and roll your dough into a log shape. Pop it in the freezer (you can even slice it into rounds, so your cookies are already formed), and next time you really get a sugar craving, these will be ready and waiting to be brought to life in a hot oven.

What to do with all that leftover Christmas chocolate CAN’T FACE ANOTHER CHOCOLATE COIN? HERE’S HOW TO USE THEM UP. BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Do a big batch of rocky road You can freeze it, store it for later, give it to the kids – and it’ll use up leftover chocolate as well as chocolate biscuits. All you need is butter, golden syrup, crushed biscuits and the dregs from your selection pack and you’ll be sorted. Top them with roughlychopped Christmas nuts for bonus points.

Drink it You might be sick of eating chocolate,

but what about drinking it? For a really decadent hot chocolate, grate your best leftover dark chocolate bar into a pan with milk, heat through until molten and fully blended, pour into a mug, add whipped cream and drink. A nip of something stronger wouldn’t go amiss either.

If all else fails, all that chocolate will probably keep until Easter anyway.

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APPETITE

WINE TASTING EVENING AT THE WINE CELLAR Photos: Dollsfactory.net

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

APPETITE

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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5 TRAVEL

SHORT EUROPEAN STAYS TO BLOW THE WINTER BLUES AWAY

Stargaze from a converted snow groomer, listen to stories around a bonfire, or hike through Ibizan orange groves.

Long winter months are sometimes difficult to endure, but the promise of mini getaways can always relieve the pain. And if ski holidays or Christmas markets don’t appeal, there are still plenty of ways to plan short European stays.

Whether you fancy hiking in the Balearic islands, or hunting northern lights from a remote Norwegian cabin, the options are endless. These are some of the season’s best picks.

A sunny surprise Where: Ibiza

Popular summer season destinations in the Mediterranean are now opening their doors for winter, when mild temperatures increase the opportunities for hiking and active pursuits.

In Ibiza, thermometers hover around 15C at this time of year, crowds have disappeared, and the island ticks along at a very different pace.

Set within 10 acres of orange groves on a former family finca, Atzaro Agroturismo showcases the quieter side of this Balearic party giant. Launched for the cooler months, a new collection of cycling and walking packages encourage guests to explore the countryside.

Forage for medicinal wild herbs, discover indigenous plants and hear about the island’s history from local guides. The property has also recently introduced a Scandi-inspired garden sauna pod – so even if it does get chilly, there’s still some guaranteed heat.

How: A three-night nature walking package costs €660pp (around £575, plus tax), including B&B accommodation, use of spa facilities, yoga and wellness classes, plus three guided nature walks.

Visit atzaro.com.

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TRAVEL

Detoxing in a beer bath Where: Istria, Croatia

Only a hop over the Adriatic sea, Croatia commands a similar culinary prowess to Italy – yet its food scene is still underappreciated by outsiders. Istria’s olive oil has received worldwide acclaim and it’s the only place in the world where both top quality white and black truffle varieties can be found together.

A healthy craft beer scene is also emerging, and one brewery has even gone so far as to launch the country’s first beer spa. Located in Buje, the San Servolo Resort & Beer Spa

invites guests to relax in a beer-filled tub while helping themselves to pints from nearby taps.

Stay overnight in smart accommodation and dine at the resort’s restaurant, where menu highlights include truffles and beef from the region’s long-horned Boskarin cattle – along with dishes marinated in beer.

How: Double rooms from £95 with breakfast.

Visit sanservoloresort.com/beer-spa.

Chugging on a snow train Where: Finnish Lapland

You can hunt them by foot, car or cruise ship – but have you ever heard of searching for northern lights by train?

Polar storytelling sessions Where: Alta, Norway

Traditionally, Norwegians living above the Arctic Circle would while away long, dark winter evenings by sharing entertaining tales and roasting meats on barbecues.

Get a snapshot of the Lappish cabin lifestyle by joining a storytelling excursion from Alta. Travel to a remote location, far away from light pollution, and sit around a blazing fire listening to myths and local legends. With any luck, the aurora borealis may turn up, giving a magical twist to any narrative.

How: A three-night stay in a cabin with breakfast and a snowshoeing trip starts from £775pp (two sharing). Flights extra.

Visit magneticnorthtravel.com.

Pulled along by a snowmobile, the Snow Train trundles through wilderness areas surrounding Apukka Resort in northern Finland, keeping guests cosy while they look out for magical lights.

Stopping off at a traditional Finnish Kota for grilled sausages and hot drinks, the evening continues with a scientific explanation of the aurora and – if nature plays game – an education on how best to photograph displays.

Spend the first night in an ice cabin, wrapped in thermal sleeping bags, and then switch to a stay in an Aurora Wagon, dropped off by a driver in a remote location.

Further activities include a husky safari, reindeer ride and the opportunity to watch sunrise from a spot specially selected by a local expert.

Visit theaurorazone.com

Romance on a mountain summit

Where: La Plagne, France

Imagine falling asleep on top of a snowy mountain, so high it feels almost possible to reach up and touch the moon.

Intrepid guests at French alpine resort La Plagne have the opportunity to give it a go by staying in a converted Snow Groomer, driven up to the 2,400 metre-high Arpette summit and parked for the night.

The functional vehicle has been transformed into a luxury pad designed for two, with a queen-sized bed, spa bath, large flat-screen TV, stereo, and coffee machine.

Champagne and fresh macarons are also BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

How: A four-night trip with half-board accommodation (including one night in an Ice Cabin – subject to availability – and one night in an Aurora Wagon) costs from £1,311pp. Also includes flights from London, transfers, cold weather clothing and expert guides. Departures from January 2–March 24, 2019.

included – along with a complimentary ‘Lovebox’ featuring an erotic board game, feather and massage oil.

Panoramic windows perfectly frame the night sky, although with so many distractions inside, there may not be enough time to admire the views.

How: The one-night Over the Moon package costs €320 (about £280) for two people, and is available from early January 2019 until the end of April 2019.

Visit skipass-laplagne.com or la-plagne. com.

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FASHION

PARTY FASHION Lola Embellished Envelope Clutch, Accessorize, £37 It’s party season, so it’s time to inject some festive cheer into your wardrobe. Think bold prints, sequins and, love them or hate them Christmas jumpers. Whether you opt for a festive favourite or something with a subtle sparkle, make it your most stylish Yuletide yet with our top picks from the high street.

GIRLS Crinkle Velvet Co-ord, Topshop, £39-£88

Cleopatra Statement Earrings, Accessorize, £15

Juliet Sequin Jacket, Monsoon, £99

Black Embellished Sleeve Jumpsuit, Dorothy Perkins, £39

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Cream Fluffy Santa Baby Christmas Jumper, New Look, £30 ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FASHION

Dark Green Big Sack Slogan Jumper, New Look, £19.99

Red Hipster Santa Jumper, New Look, £19.99

MANX MADE SHAVING CREAM After many months of preparation, the Manx made Sweeney Todd Shaving Cream project is now complete and on sale at Sweeney Todd Gents Hairdressers.

The project to produce a Manx made shaving cream started about 2 years ago when Sweeney Todd was looking for a product to complement the Sweeney Todd Shaving Brushes which are sold in the shop and online. As the Brush is handmade on the Isle of Man it got Sweeney Todd thinking, would it be possible to find a shaving cream which was totally made in the Island? The answer was Yes.

BOYS Charcoal Pattern Crew Neck Jumper, Burton, £28

Keen to play a part in the reduction of single use plastic, unlike a number of alternative shaving creams on the market, the Sweeney Todd shaving cream comes in an aluminium container which can be recycled.

Customers can also return their empty tins to receive 50p saving off their next Sweeney Todd shaving cream purchase.

Adding to the aim of using as many local businesses in the formation of this product, even the labels are locally sourced thanks to Bruce Hooper of Hooper’s Foil Printers which is based in Peel.

The Sweeney Todd Shaving Cream in now available in store at Sweeney Todd, Villa Marina Arcade and online at: www.sweeneytodd-iom.com

Navy Fair Isle Christmas Jumper, Burton, £25

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ST. GEORGE’S AFC HOST CHILDREN’S FOOTBALL CAMP WITH PROFESSIONAL EVERTON COACHES. For avid sports fans, Douglas-based football team St George’s AFC will be no stranger.

The club will be 100 years old next year and during its history it has built up an impressive list of honours, attracting many of the island’s top players for a number of generations. Recently St Georges hosted the Everton FC-run charity, Everton in the Community, for a week-long children’s football camp, providing first-class professional training to young Manx players.

Everton’s professional football coaches visited the Isle of Man with a camp designed to give children the opportunity to receive training from some of the best professional coaches in the UK. Children were able to experience football tricks and training on behalf of the famous club, and it’s hoped the academy will become an annual event as St George’s AFC looks to develop the football abilities of young people on the island.

Everton in the Community are one of the UK’s leading sporting charities and they aim to use the power of sport to motivate, educate and inspire people in local communities.

TASK UK, who sponsor St Georges AFC, have given additional support to the academy in the hope that it will regenerate the importance of keeping children active, as well as further enhance the island’s love for sport.

St George’s Club Treasurer, Andrew Bass, said “St George’s were delighted to host the recent EITC Soccer Academy in

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association with TASK UK. It was the ideal opportunity for the club, in their centenary year, to showcase their excellent facilities and cater for young players from all over the island. The Everton coaches did an exceptional job and we look forward to welcoming them back for a larger academy next year. We would like to thank our amazing sponsors TASK UK and associate sponsors Manx Independent Carriers, The Claremont Hotel and Ocean Motor Village for making this community event such a huge success.”

St George’s AFC have themselves been a very successful sports team. Competing in the Isle of Man Football League, winning the Manx FA, and being crowned Premier League champions in 2008; the club also boasts an under-17 team and are continuing to support children’s sport by running the EITC football camp.

Everton in the Community have hosted Soccer Schools for a number of years and EITC’s Soccer Camp Coordinator, Sean Robertson said, “On behalf of Everton in the Community, I would like to thank St George’s AFC and TASK UK for giving us the opportunity to be part of the club’s 100 year celebration. Myself and the coaches really enjoyed working with the children on the island and we hope to have created some great memories as well as improving their footballing abilities. We are looking forward to building on what we have started in the future”.

The popularity of the event was apparent as dozens of young people from across the island signed up, proving it to be another significant move in the development of Isle of Man sport.

Everton in the Community run active projects and campaigns throughout the year, and these projects have seen activities running with Alder Hey hospital, the Liverpool children’s hospital, and disability BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

development campaigns. Their charitable sporting efforts in recent years have allowed them to make a lasting impact on the city of Liverpool whilst creating a memorable experience for children who are involved, and provided them with the opportunity to improve their skills.

TASK UK Managing Director, Jamie Hayes, said “TASK UK is extremely proud to have sponsored this event. We wanted to get involved in order to help give the island’s children a chance to receive professional coaching with fantastic facilities, provided by one of the island’s most successful football teams. Oasis Catering, St. George’s AFC, Everton in the Community and TASK UK all came together to put on a great week, which everyone thoroughly enjoyed.” TASK are an island-based outsourcing company, known for their expertise as business support professionals, specialising in customer services, mobile answering services, virtual personal assistance, and administrative support.

TASK UK have sponsored St George’s in their sporting endeavours but have been proud to offer additional sponsorship of this charitable event which proved popular and was able to highlight the Isle of Man as a central hub of sporting activity.

It’s hoped the football camp will push more youngsters to pursue sporting activities as St George’s also have an under-17s team which aims to have more children involved in sport in the Isle of Man from a younger age. The football camp took place at St George’s Glencrutchery Road campus and, like other soccer schools run by Everton in the Community, it was a great opportunity for talent spotting and offering young people the chance to develop their skills under professional leadership.

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TECHNOLOGY

Make every conversation count this Christmas Have you ever tried in vain to have a mobile phone conversation at a Christmas or New Year’s party and found the call drowned out by Slade’s Merry Christmas Everybody or the sound of popping champagne corks?

Christmas is a time for friends and family, but sometimes it’s not possible for everyone to get together to celebrate.

Whether it’s keeping in touch with parents or grandparents, aunts or uncles, or friends from school or university, phone calls can help everyone share the festive season with their loved ones, wherever they are in the world.

More than any other time in the year, getting the clearest and best quality calls is more important than ever.

That’s why Manx Telecom Pay Monthly Mobile customers are registering for MT clearSound - a ground-breaking product which makes phone calls crisper and clearer.

MT clearSound links an online hearing assessment to your mobile phone so that for the first time you can really make your mobile calls personal to you.

In minutes you can build an individual profile that delivers clearer conversations tailored to how you hear different sounds.

Seamless technology on the Manx Telecom mobile network applies your profile to your mobile immediately. No special equipment is needed and MT clearSound works on any mobile phone.

A UK launch is planned for 2019 and in the longer-term global growth opportunities beckon – but right now it’s only available to Manx Telecom Pay Monthly mobile customers and it’s FREE! So this Christmas if you’re speaking to relatives or friends around the world, not only will it be easier to hear them, you can also proudly tell them that you’re using technology developed right here in the Isle of Man as part of a global first.

MT clearSound has been researched, trialled and developed on the Island by Manx Telecom – working in partnership with Goshawk Communications which is part of the Manx Telecom group - and is backed by leading professionals.

Its effectiveness has been proven in several trials – in a trial carried out this year 90% of the volunteers who took part agreed that speech was clearer and easier to hear when using MT clearSound.

Interested?

Go to mt.im/clearsound to find out more and register.

Not a Manx Telecom Pay Monthly customer but want to know more about MT clearSound?

Visit our Strand Street shop or call our Customer Experience Team on 624624.

Get MT clearSound in minutes 1

2

3

Go to mt.im/clearsound and create your personal profile or visit our shop on Strand Street, Douglas

Measure how you hear different sounds on your mobile phone

Choose between a standard profile and your MT clearSound profile

4 Hear the difference in conversation clarity straight away

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Christmas is…

mobile call clarity, made personal to you it’s FREE, register now at manxtelecom.com/clearsound

crisper, clearer calls BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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HARDWARE

MORE ‘SILVER CYCLISTS’

GETTING ON THEIR BIKE IN 2019 Older people are buying more bikes than ever before, heralding the rise of “silver cyclists”. The trend is being driven by men and women over the age of 55 who are cycling for pleasure or to stay fit and healthy. People such as actress Goldie Hawn, TV personalities Lorraine Kelly and Fern Britton, and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn are among those inspiring an increase in cycling and it’s reported more people are getting back on their bikes but this time it’s an e-bike.

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The Iconic Lundi 26

1

Moustache handlebar!

The legendary Moustache handlebar ensures a natural position for your hands for even more comfort on long rides.

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So why consider an e-bike?

Electric bikes offer all the benefits of regular bicycle riding – exercise, cardiovascular, and the mental health benefits of getting out in the world and being physical. Everything you can imagine is beneficial with regular bikes is also true for e-bikes, because in their essence, e-bikes are bicycles.

The benefits go beyond just regular cycling benefits however, because e-bikes help people get back into riding again. A lot of people who get into e-bikes rode bikes in the past and they love being physical, yet they’re getting a little older, and maybe have some arthritis or have had a knee or hip replacement. A lot of older people still want to be stay active but are worried that they won’t be able to make it back just pedaling. Or they want to keep up with a spouse or family members who enjoy riding, but they’re concerned that they won’t be able to keep up. Having the extra help of an electric bike is amazing and changes people’s lives.

Riding More Often With decreased impact on joints, you’re able to walk away after a long ride on an electric bike without the pain and soreness you’ll find with a standard bike. That naturally makes going for a ride much more enticing, because you know you’ll get the exercise you need without the painful side effects that typically follow. When you’re able to avoid that pain, you’re more likely to pick up your e-bike to go for a ride.

As you would expect, the more you ride, the more you can improve your health.

The assistance from the onboard motor will also make it easier than ever to go farther on your rides. Taking on steep inclines is no longer a task to dread, as you won’t have to strain yourself nearly as much to reach the top. Because you’re in control of when the motor assists you, this gives you the freedom to customize your riding experience and further improve your fitness.

Need advice?

One of the first things someone who is considering an e-bike should do is think about how they would use it. Is it for cruising around town or going off-road? Do they want to be able to carry cargo? And then choose between form factors — do they want to a step-through frame, do they want a fat tyre model, do they want it to be folding so they can stow it in the back of the car?

Staff at Riley’s Garden Centre can answer your questions about e-bikes, and you can even have a ride on a recommended BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

2

Practical Open frame for easy step through.

Rear rack with integrated QL3 mounts to attach Moustache Ortlieb panniers in one click.

The frame lock under the seatstays allows securing your bike for quick stops.

1ST-2ND / 8TH9TH / 15TH-16TH 11-3PM

3

Ultra natural, quiet and energy saving New Bosch Active Plus system, very natural, compact lightweight and friction-less. Its low consumption provides a generous autonomy.

Samedi 28

Friday 28 Moustache model. Moustache is a structured collection with 12 families to cover all the different riding needs: urban, all road, road, mountain bike and kids’ bikes, so you can find the right Moustache for you - and get on your bike - again!

Riley’s Garden Centre, Cooil Road, Braddan OPEN DAILY 8:00AM - 5:30PM SUNDAY 10:00AM - 5:00PM T: 01624 616116 | E:info@rileys.co.im | www.rileys.co.im

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SHINY GADGETS

SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A DIAMOND - SOME OF THE WORLDS WORST DIAMOND ENCRUSTED PHONES The Million-Dollar Cellphone Looking more like a medieval relic than a phone, the so-called “million dollar cellphone,” by Goldvish, is so heavily coated in the things that it hardly looks like technology at all. If it were crafted as a trinket for a meso-american king to hurl into a lake, at least it might have slowly unraveled under the pressure of centuries of deep water, returning the stones to the earth.

As it is, however, we know that this revolting carbon banana is out there,

somewhere, existing. If the only thing it has to cope with is air, it might well outlive humanity itself, so densely is it shielded.

Do you want this to be all that the aliens find amid the radioactive decay, thousands of years hence? Do you?

Destroy it now, before it has a chance to diminish the intergalactic caliber of Earth’s future ruins.

VERTU SIGNATURE BLACK & WHITE DIAMONDS Resembling an art deco dildo, the Vertu’s trashy exterior conceals a phone so ordinary a Motorola executive teleported from the mid-1990s might wonder if it was next year’s Startac.

“Featuring” 644 white diamonds and 428 black diamonds for a grand total of 1,072 diamonds, this Vertu costs something north of $80,000. But not at resale.

DISHONORABLE MENTION: NOKIA N95

Nokia’s N95 is not at all crap. It is excellent. Encrusted in a thick snot of cultured diamonds and given a $24,000 price tag, however, even the most capable and well-made technology loses its shine, even as it gains its sparkle. The incongruity of the addition is a reminder of its purposelessness.

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Diamonds are not forever. Given enough time, they revert to graphite. Diamonds are not rare, either: they are abundant, and lab-made rocks can’t be distinguished from natural examples without the help of specialized equipment. The apparent value of this valueless stone is all in our heads — it is expensive because the cartel that controls its sale, DeBeers, says so.

In other words, *don’t spill bullshit in your geek. *The tech industry creates quite enough of its own.

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PHONE HOME

APPLE IPHONE XR The iPhone XR is a phone you’ll want everyone to see! Praised for its gorgeous colour finishes (yellow, coral, blue, product red, white and black), it could be seen as the fashion-forward model of this year’s iPhones.

this phone’s price range.

Size-wise, it sits in between the new XS and XS Max, with a 6.1 inch display instead of the 5.8 inch and 6.5 inch screens on the other two, respectively. The new display on the iPhone XR is the most advanced LCD in the industry. An innovative backlight design allows the screen to stretch into the corners. The result is an all-screen design that still fits comfortably in your hand.

The battery life in the XR is formidable.

Apple states you should expect to get up to 25 hours talk time, 15 hours web use, 16 hours video playback and top up to 50 per cent charge in 30 minutes. With its glass back you now also have the option to charge wirelessly.

The iPhone XR looks a lot like the iPhone 8 from the back with its single-camera lens, but turn it over and you get the full iPhone X treatment- there’s a notch, no home button, and an edge-to-edge screen for the most modern iOS experience you can get at

Face ID is quick and accurate, and you can do silly things like use 3D Snapchat masks and Apple’s Animoji and Memoji, which require the face-tracking camera.

Overall, the iPhone XR is a solid choice if you want what flagship iPhones offer, without the flagship price.

The Apple iPhone XR 64GB is available as part of a Christmas bundle with an Apple iPad 9.7 32GB Wi-Fi only from £70 per month at Manx Telecom.

BIG GADGETS

A TV TO MAKE YOU GO - WOW Samsung 8K QLED TV Discover a new standard of resolution with the Samsung QLED 8K TV. Combining 8K resolution with intelligent upscaling, everything you watch has a new lease of life.

Experience deeper realism that makes you feel closer to the action than ever before and enjoy every scene as it was supposed to be enjoyed.

standard employed by many Hollywood studios. This feature allows the Q900FN to produce four times more pixels than a 4K UHD TV and 16 times more pixels than a full HD TV. Q HDR 8K, powered by HDR10+ technology, optimizes the TV’s brightness levels and delivers the visual experience intended by creators.

To achieve 8K-quality images, the Samsung Q900FN features Real 8K Resolution and is capable of 4,000 nit peak brightness, a

The Samsung 8K QLED TV is available at Colebourn Home Entertainment on Victoria St, T: 673482. www.colebourn.com

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THE

5

iPhone XS The largest-ever display on an iPhone makes Apple’s flagship a must-have gift this Christmas.

The face-recognition software has been improved and the dual camera takes some of the best snaps on the market. Perfect for capturing work Christmas party snaps of your colleagues embarrassing themselves!

S OF E N O PH MAS T S I R CH

iPhone XR Brighten up your Christmas and pick the colour that suits you with the latest iPhone. The XR keeps some of the best bits of its older cousin the XS but adds a bit of variety in its look as it is available in black, white, blue, coral, yellow, and red (as a PRODUCT(RED) collaboration).

Christmas is a time for giving and if you’re thinking of gifting someone a new phone Sure is here to help with a guide to the season’s must-have handsets. If you switch to Sure this Christmas we’ll pay up to £300 of your early termination fees with MT and you could get a half-price handset for the first 12 months. There are also no up-front charges on any of our pay monthly deals, we automatically reduce your bill when your handset is paid off and you can pay off your plan at any time to upgrade to the latest model. So what are you waiting for?

Pop in and see our friendly shop staff in Douglas, Ramsey or Port Erin or check out our website – www.sure.com– to get the best deals on the island’s best mobile network.

Sony XZ3 An amazing screen capable of playing 4K video is the main selling point of Sony’s flagship model. The free Sony speaker worth £100 that comes with it when you buy from Sure is the icing on the (Christmas) cake. www.sure.com–

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Samsung S9 Vibrant colours on an OLED screen, that famous curved screen and fast wireless charging all make the S9 the most popular Android flagship in the world. This Christmas it comes with a free Veho speaker worth £60 when you buy with Sure, perfect for blaring out ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’ again (and again and again…).

Huawei P20 Pro The rising star of the smartphone world is undoubtedly Huawei, which builds good-looking phones with generous storage space and RAM for fast performance. The P20 Pro is its top-of-the-range handset and boasts a triple-camera setup for amazing photos and a huge battery for a longerlasting experience.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

01624 673482 HOME ENTERTAINMENT

www.colebourn.com sales@colebourn.com

57 - 61 Victoria Street Douglas IM1 2RP

NIGHTLIFE

PAPP’D AT THE COURTHOUSE

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ARE YOU IN? /GALLERYIOM

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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NIGHTLIFE

ARE YOU IN? OUMIE WHITE’S 25TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

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/GALLERYIOM

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AVIATION DISPUTE RESOLUTION FAMILY REGULATORY SHIPPING TRUST & PRIVATE CLIENT

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