July 2018 | the ORGANIC issue

Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no. 76 | July 2018 | the [ORGANIC] issue

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UPFRONT

CONTENTS 42 Relative Values 44 Masterpixel 46 Drinking at Work!

58 The iPhone is Growing Up

UPFRONT

5 6 What's On 9 The Great Outdoors 10 Feature - The Last Straw Edito

FEATURE UPFRONT

UPFRONT

FEATURE

Get naked and live in a tree

People who can’t be bothered doing anything to preserve the planet often get upset that environmental campaigns try and make them feel guilty. This is a silly thing to get upset about, like sharing a bed with somebody and expecting them not to say something when you insist on peeing in it, but there’s a grain of logic there.

The problem with giving much thought to environmental problems is that you’re likely to become depressed at how little you can personally do about them. As an enthusiastic citizen of a wasteful society, I suspect that cutting out straws alone won’t make the slightest dent in my carbon footprint. I’m not sure I even know where to start.

I have an old university friend, who for legal reasons I’ll call Crusty Bob, who earned his reputation as a veteran and fearless environmental campaigner. He has occupied oil platforms, chained himself to trees, been arrested by the Russians and stalked whaling boats. The last time I spoke to him he was living in a squat and cycling to protests, powered by a vegan diet and a slow-burning rage against mainstream society.

WORDS Leroy Hudson Russ Atkinson ILLUSTRATION WORDS Leroy Hudson

ILLUSTRATION Russ Atkinson

If you’re alive and online you’ve undoubtedly seen the social media If you’re alive and online you’vewaste undoubtedly the social media and ocean, the up in that endsseen the plastic to reduce campaign campaign totoreduce the plasticdrinking waste that ends up in the ocean, and straws. ban disposable specifically specifically to ban disposable drinking straws. greener people indulge in or even rely on. the Earth, if only we’d ban the straws It tugs at our heartstrings with emotive of water bodies scenes It tugsof at the ournear-limitless heartstrings with emotive and in each of this planet, most cover that scenes of the near-limitless bodies of water species the human cranny and of nookmost watery that cover this planet, and in each some of deposit managed somehow has watery nook and crannytothe human species its hasfilth. somehow managed to deposit some of its filth.

There’s a turtle with a straw up its nose; a whale bud; a cotton ridingwith seahorse aThere’s a turtle a straw up its nose; We are microbeads. in luxurious covered a seahorse riding a cotton bud; a whale of those teenagers equivalent planet’s the covered in luxurious microbeads.

We are at up theirofbarbecue didn’t clean who the planet’s equivalent those teenagers the at andupapparently beach, Fenella who didn’t clean their barbecue one of the straw isthe plastic disposable Fenella beach, anddrink apparently save could Surely offenders. worst disposable plastic drinkwestraw is one of the worst offenders. Surely we could save

tomorrow? the Earth, if only we’d ban the straws tomorrow?

Needless to say, the answer is no. A proper environmentalist would say I’ve chosen Needless to say, the answer is no. A proper a deliberately silly example, and I won’t environmentalist would say I’ve chosen argue, because I’ve done so on purpose. a deliberately silly example, and I won’t The plastic drinking straw is in reality argue, because I’ve done so on purpose. unlikely to be a major contributor to marine The plastic drinking straw is in reality plastic waste. It probably isn’t even in the unlikely to be a major contributor to marine top 100. It doesn’t mean we can start plastic waste. It probably isn’t even in the chucking them about like confetti, but we top 100. It doesn’t mean we can start do need to make more of an effort to locate chucking them about like confetti, but we these stripy devils in a hierarchy of the do need to make more of an effort to locate many, many wasteful products that even these stripy devils in a hierarchy of the many, many wasteful products that even

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We should probably ditch the petrol greener people indulge in or even rely on. engine, and disposable nappies, and We should probably ditch the petrol artificial fibres, but the problem is that all of engine, and disposable nappies, and these things are a lot more useful to our artificial fibres, but the problem is that all of lifestyles than plastic straws. It’s harder to these things are a lot more useful to our think about how you’d cope without cement lifestyles than plastic straws. It’s harder to or cheap beef than it is to share a snappy think about how you’d cope without cement video about waste in the ocean. We can all or cheap beef than it is to share a snappy agree that plastic straws aren’t great but video about waste in the ocean. We can all none of us get an A grade in the agree that plastic straws aren’t great but sustainability exam just because we clicked none of us get an A grade in the ‘like’ and didn’t personally wrap a walrus in sustainability exam just because we clicked a bin bag on the weekend. ‘like’ and didn’t personally wrap a walrus in a bin bag on the weekend.

Crusty Bob is an anarcho-syndicalist, adhering to a niche variety of practical socialism that doesn’t leave much room for compromise. He believes that there is literally no other option that will permit the survival of our planetary environment other than the complete dismantling of global capitalism and a return to living in small tribes. He wouldn’t use a plastic drinking straw, but he’d also feel bad about using a private motor vehicle, wearing leather, owning a smartphone, or even having children. As I know he’s done at least two of that short list I can assume he spends a lot of time wracked with guilt, no matter how many videos he shares on the computer he’d probably prefer not to own.

Hank Scorpio: environmental saviour?

Bob is at one end of the scale, but the other isn’t populated by people who pretend

environmental problems aren’t real, because those people are liars or idiots. It’s people who definitely agree that the human impact on our planet is a problem, but think that the route out of it is the responsibility of other people, or just smarter consumption.

The best contemporary example is celebrity rocket man Elon Musk who (although he doesn’t like taxation) thinks we can use his taxpayer-subsidised rockets to escape the one planet known to be perfectly adapted for life. The same utopian view of technology runs deep in many of his Silicon Valley contemporaries. Like all good Californian citizens they respect the environment, and would definitely frown on you for jamming a straw in an otter’s bottom, but would nonetheless like you not to feel guilty about buying a new computer every twelve months. My computer came with a lovely desktop image of a pristine wilderness, and I’m happy its makers raise awareness of environmental issues, but to see the scale of the disconnect all you need to do is compare photos of the place the computer was designed with some photos of where it was built. I like new computers and space exploration as much as the next nerd but I’m not convinced we can have the low-impact technology campus without the grimy Chinese wasteland, and one is growing faster than the other.

I fought the straw and the straw won

Articles like this occur with great regularity in the quality newspapers and follow a predictable pattern. The writer establishes a real-life ethical conflict, cites some extreme responses and ties it up with some loosely hopeful solutions that imply

PLACES

52

“If you got this far you’re probably doing a fair bit more than sharing videos on social media - you probably separate your waste, avoid excessive packaging and definitely, absolutely haven’t poured polystyrene on a family of dolphins. You can sleep soundly at night, right?” the reader should feel okay if they situate themselves somewhere in the middle. If you got this far you’re probably doing a fair bit more than sharing videos on social media - you probably separate your waste, avoid excessive packaging and definitely, absolutely haven’t poured polystyrene on a family of dolphins. You can sleep soundly at night, right?

EVENTS

FEATURE

The Isle of Man has had its fair share of festivals over the years, with many still going strong - Dark Horse, Mannifest, the Garden Party, Deep South and countless Manx music and cultural festivals, to name but a few. And the TT is arguably a music festival in its own right, having attracted huge names over the years, including Ray Davies, Meatloaf, Van Morrison and Lou Reed.

12 Could You Be A Foster Carer 14 News in Numbers 16 10 Stages of Going on Holiday 18 GIVE 22

As we dive headlong into the summer months, when festival season really gets into full swing, Isle of Man-headquartered international life company RL360 decided to take a look at 10 of the most famous festivals held across the globe. #festivalseason

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TOP

MUSIC FESTIVALS AROUND THE WORLD 1

COACHELLA There are probably more celebrities at Coachella than members of the general public these days, such is the festival’s reputation for being ‘the place to be’.

After reaching the dizzying heights of Beyonce’s jaw-dropping headline set this year, can it be long before the Californian institution finds it impossible to outdo itself any further? There are 590,000plus music lovers who hope not. See you next April.

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REDFEST DXB Chart-toppers like Rita Ora, Demi Lovato, Bastille and Iggy Azalea have played this festival which dominates Dubai for one weekend each year in February. But it’s not just music, there are interesting street food vendors and amazing art installations to keep revellers occupied between sets at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre.

EVENTS

PHOTOS BY: AMANDA NICHOLSON - WWW.AJN.PHOTOGRAPHY

SUNSHINE AND RECORDS AT THE TT GRANDSTAND FOR RL360 GUESTS

The RL360 Superstock was particularly exciting and close run this year. The race saw the top three riders – Peter Hickman (Smiths Racing BMW), Michael Dunlop (MD Racing BMW) and Dean Harrison (Silicone Engineering Kawasaki) - swap positions throughout the 4-lap race.

Hickman scored a stunning new lap record

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MAWAZINE Around 2.65 million Africans show the world how to party at Morocco’s Mawazine Festival. Held in Rabat in May each year, it began as a celebration of Moroccan culture and arts, before morphing more into a tribute to African music. These days, big names in African music such as Amadou and Mariam share the limelight with other international acts such as Christina Aguilera and Justin Timberlake.

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GLASTONBURY It’s a British institution. This 5-day musical extravaganza has been going for an amazing 47 years now and shows no sign of dipping in popularity. Festival goers buy their tickets months before they know who’ll be headlining, whinge that it’s all too commercial when the acts are announced and then spend days revelling in the mud/ scorching sunshine having the time of their lives. Tickets are a whopping £228 but in the region of 135,000 people part with that so they can spend a few glorious days at Worthy Farm. Festival director Michael Eavis is almost more famous than the acts these days.

DONAUINSELFEST The key to the huge numbers (around 3 million) attending this annual festival is the fact it is free. Plus it is held in Vienna - on an island in the middle of the Danube River – a city which nurtured the talent of Mozart and is steeped in stunning musical history. Donauinselfest is the biggest festival in the world. Perhaps it’s without the easily recognisable names of the other inclusions on this list but that doesn’t necessarily indicate a difference in the quality of the music on offer.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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SZIGET Sziget is held in Budapest, Hungary, and has its roots in political upheaval and student unrest. Things are a little different today, however, as nearly half a million people gather together to enjoy music from pop acts like Muse, Sia, Rhianna and Sigur Ros. It lasts a week and attracts festival goers from across Western Europe and around the world, as well as the locals.

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60 Sun Protection 62 Eye Care

“It was a fantastic day from start to finish,” said RL360 Marketing Director Simon Barwell. “Our guests were extremely well looked after by event staff and really enjoyed getting up close to the riders on the grid and the startline before the racing.

It’s an amazing experience.

“And, of course, a day of beautiful sunshine helped!”

EDITORIAL

APPETITE

23

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Beth & Adam’s Wedding Day

‘’So then we thought about catering”, says Kylie. “We wanted to do something simple, based around one food. We hit on the idea of making pizzas in a wood-fired oven.

There was something primitive about cooking with fire that sparked excitement in both of us, so we did some research and decided that this was definitely the route we wanted to go down. We also knew from the start that using local produce was going to be an integral part of our business”.

n their choice of name alone, Kylie Rollins and Tom Rowe displayed the killer combination of flair and savvy that has been instrumental in the rapid rise of their business.

In the beginning, the name aroused curiosity. What was – or who were – The Secret Pizza Company? It sounded like a mystery you wanted to solve, particularly if pizza was the reward. It wasn’t long before Tom and Kylie’s secret was out, and now, with the immense popularity of their Castletown restaurant, the name has a delicious irony.

28 Art3 32 Upload 34 Culture News

But the story really begins with a van.

“It was an impulse purchase on eBay”, Tom explains. “A Daihatsu Hijet van in Liverpool. With literally just a minute to go, I sent a screenshot to Kylie and she said ‘go for it!’. We went across on the boat that weekend to collect it”. The couple’s initial idea was to run a mobile bar but they found that the Isle of Man’s licensing laws were not conducive to getting this plan off the ground.

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36 39 Movers & Shakers 40 Opinion Feature

HARDWARE

74 Goodwood Festival of Speed 76 Gadgets

opinion

navigating the minefield

Connolly. The pair saw a clear gap between what technology firms were selling, and how much of it their client bases grasped.

Animation seemed like a fitting solution: minimal, eye-catching, and tailored to the needs of the client. Animated video content can easily be shared and promoted on social media, and make a splash on website landing pages. That led to Healy and Connolly’s venture, Animation Explainers.

‘We bought the rights for the domain animationexplainers.com, and we were off from there’, explains Dylan. ‘We started spinning ideas during the evenings and at weekends, built the website and rang around potential clients in our spare time.

Before we knew it we were making contacts at the forefront of the cryptocurrency sector’. Being able to create the product using only a laptop, cloud sharing and video conferencing apps leant itself to a budget-friendly operation. But as business grew, so did the kit they had access to.

Dylan is no longer sheepish admitting early attempts saw them ‘recording all the voiceovers on an iPhone under a towel in his car seat’.

Still a two-man operation, they are now producing regular content for a handful of companies in Dublin and beyond, with particular interest in the minefield of blockchain, Bitcoin and Ethereum, which are becoming household names on and around Athol Street. It’s bringing formerly niche knowledge to the masses. But how do the duo, balancing their venture with full-time jobs, manage to stay ahead of the curve themselves? ‘It can be overwhelming’, Dylan admits, ‘You have to keep track of developments in Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and price fluctuations through as many news sources as you can. But it’s the craziness which drives us: the challenge of saying everything which needs to be said in 90 seconds or less’. But, he added, it isn’t as difficult as you might think: ‘as long as you have a good internet connection’.

Having now tasted success in Dublin, the entrepreneurs are hoping to expand their market. There has been recent interest from Taiwan and America, and Dylan dreams of bringing it back to Douglas.

The motivation remains the same: getting elaborate and often tricky concepts across without turning the modern reader, to whom time is precious, off. And if you’ve made it this far through this article, thank you for staying. You can go and read something else now.

Dylan Healy

Aaron Connolly

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agenda

ON THE AGENDA

OPINION

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Peter Kwiecinski Clare Payne Amanda Nicholson Shan Fisher Neil Wilson - Gibraltar 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.

PAPARAZZI

80 Are you in?

This is modern consumption: people want content short, simple, and loaded with moving pictures to coo at.

Words by: Alex Bell

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70 The Manx Rams 72 AFC Event

Business News

PHOTOGRAPHY

“When we decided to do Secret Pizza, we had no long-term plan. But then we spent all our spare time going to events and met so many amazing people in catering – people like us, who started with an idea they believed in – and that made us realise that, yes, we want to go for this and make a success of it. And what I’ve discovered is, the more you do things, if you’re willing to put in the effort to make people happy, they say ‘yes’ a lot! And so the more you realise is possible. It snowballs”.

ACTIVE

AGENDA lite

Blockchain, bitcoin and beyond:

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Emma Cooke Russ Atikinson Alex Probst

Kylie continues, “Both our dads and Tom’s stepdad run their own businesses, so that’s the spirit we’ve grown up with: if you want to do something, you’ve got to make it happen yourself. When I was studying for my accountancy exams, I was so stressed, but I got through it, and that made me think: what else can I achieve, if I really put my heart and soul into it?

The success of The Secret Pizza Company is a tale with nothing but good ingredients: a determined, hardworking partnership; an historic, quirky building waiting for a new lease of life; an openminded local authority; a hungry public; and a supportive local bank.

Clare Bowie Leroy Wallace Alex Bell Suzy Holland Robert Shrimsley Anne Berry Rhi Evans DESIGN STUDIO

Tom is a builder by trade, while Kylie is (still) an accountant with Pokerstars.

Neither had any experience in mobile catering – or creating artisan pizzas, from scratch, come to that – but what they both shared was drive and enthusiasm in spades. “We were always saying ‘we’re so busy and never have time to relax’”, laughs Kylie, “but whenever things calmed down, we always seemed to find something else to do”. “I definitely thrive off doing new, interesting things”, agrees Tom.

I

CULTURE

Highview Road, Douglas, Isle of Man IM2 5BH Tel: 01624 619540 www.gallery.co.im

CONTRIBUTORS

64 Recipes 66 The Secret Pizza Company

Following the race, RL360 guests were treated to an appearance by Hickman in the hospitality marquee.

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APPETITE

of 134.403mph in the final lap which propelled the Burton upon Trent rider to take the chequered flag and his maiden TT win. Dunlop and Harrison were second and third on the podium, respectively.

sn’t it strange how this hyperconnected, utopian futurepresent we appear to be living in can make us feel so… Disconnected?

From the crack of dawn to late in the evening, bedtime and beyond, we are bombarded with unmelodious streams of information via smartphone, tablet, and laptop screen, and our poor brains are becoming fatigued. Be honest with yourself.

How many times in the last day alone have you started reading something interesting on the web - be it a news article, blog post, or slightly-too-personal Facebook update from a friend you don’t really like - managed a measly few paragraphs, and clicked onto something more interesting?

You’re not alone. Research by US magazine Slate found that users typically spent just fifteen seconds looking at an online article; around half of readers didn’t look far enough down the page to warrant scrolling; and, tellingly, of the few who remained awake past that point, 80% only consumed the rich content (that’s photos and videos) and overlooked the text. This is modern consumption: people want content short, simple, and loaded with moving pictures to coo at.

In certain sectors, this presents a conundrum. Cryptocurrency has taken the world by storm; not least in the Isle of Man, where it enjoys rapid growth alongside traditional industries, as well as the support of policymakers (see also: fintech, greentech, biomed, and various other portmanteaus so innovative that the words still generate a threatening red squiggle on my computer’s word processor). But as these new, highly technical industries flourish, how can businesses attract interest and investors if Joe Public doesn’t understand what is going on? There’s an extremely fine line between underselling your core message, and unpacking your operations in nuanced layman’s terms.

Dylan Healy knows that more than most. The 24-year-old marketing graduate, who grew up in Douglas, moved to Dublin a year ago to pursue an internship with a US digital agency. One thing he noticed were the economic similarities between home and the Irish capital, where cryptocurrency et al seem similarly poised to become serious rivals to the likes of eGaming and financial services.

The internship introduced him to a wide range of clients, many of whom shared concerns about bringing their products to a wider audience still unaware of the industry’s revolutionary potential. It also introduced him to business partner Aaron

T: 01624 619540 sales@gallery.co.im

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APPETITE

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ADVERTISING SALES

GOOD VIBES FESTIVA This month’s Good Vibes Festival in Gohtong Jaya, Malaysia, will welcome headliners Lorde and alt-J to its modern resort setting, built in the scenic hills above Kuala Lumpur. The festival is the biggest held anywhere in the region and sees international acts mix with Malaysian musicians on the eclectic bill.

AUSTIN CITY LIMITS While SXSW has arguably become better known worldwide over the years, Austin City Limits, or ACL as it’s better known in its Texan home town, has continued to grow. ACL runs over a couple of weekends in late September/ early October in the city’s Zilker Park, attracting a crowd of in the region of 450,000 and headliners like Bob Dylan, Radiohead and the Foo Fighters.

PUBLISHER

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

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WOODSTOCK (POLAND) Not the famous one from the sixties with Bob Dylan and all the stoned naked people with hippy hair who grew up to be accountants. No, while Woodstock (Poland) is named after the 1969 version and does feature a little folk music, the line-up is largely rock, pop and metal.

Headliners such as the Prodigy play to more than 1 million people in August each year in Kostrzyn nad Odra. Incidentally, Prodigy frontman Keith Flint, can usually be found at the IoM TT each year with his own motorcycle racing team.

FASHION & BEAUTY

RL 360 Guest TT Event

EVENTS

RL360 has been title sponsor of the Superstock TT since 2002 and each year takes the opportunity to invite key stakeholders to the event to experience the spectacle of racing on the Mountain Course.

TRAVEL

4

ROCK IN RIO If you’re looking for a glamorous festival, look no further than Rio de Janiero, Brazil. It’s held in September every second year and attracts a massive 700,000 people. Made particularly famous by Iron Maiden’s live album Rock in Rio – see the seminal “Scream for me Rio!” moment – the festival’s glittering list of alumni include Queen, Elton John, Guns n’Roses and Metallica

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A group of 30 RL360 staff and guests enjoyed a day at the TT Grandstand Hospitality Marquee on the Monday of Race Week.

WHO WE ARE

56 Go Green...

58 Top 10 World Music Festivals 11

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Feature Properties

TRAVEL

Well, the problem with this issue is that the truth isn’t somewhere in the middle.

My friend Crusty Bob is much closer to being right - global civilisation is almost certainly doomed unless we make a series of changes that amount to something much more dramatic than enjoying Coca-Cola without a plastic straw. I did promise you that thinking about the environment was depressing, but humanity has overcome many depressing problems, so fatalism isn’t a valid excuse not to make the best of a bad situation. Like most people, I’d find the Crusty Bob lifestyle very hard to emulate, but I do think that the area where we can learn from his approach is that thinking about the impact of consumption and waste is something we need to get used to doing all of the time. If you want to cut out plastic straws then go ahead, but the gesture is worth very little unless you’re prepared to follow it up by thinking about how you’d make a few more difficult changes to your lifestyle. Future generations will thank you, especially if they are trying to bargain with our sea-dwelling overlords for mercy. I can’t predict if the mutant walruses of the year 6000 will have social media videos about us, but keep the possibility in mind next time you’re tempted to leave your Bag For Life under the kitchen sink.

TRAVEL

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Gallery is published eleven times a year as a fresh yet discerning guide to all that happens on the Island and beyond.

Not too arty farty superior or too serious, written by you and enjoyed by people everywhere.

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Recycle.

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

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

edito #76

Sometimes, it’s hard to be organic

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Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no. 76 | July 2018 | the [ORGANIC] issue

#76

the ORGANIC issue BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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F

unny isn’t it? The whole point of living organically is that it’s supposed to represent simplicity; a more natural way of eating, living, being; and yet, it seems to require a tremendous amount of effort and energy to achieve it. Eating organic “plant powered” food is expensive; those misshapen peppers and mucky potatoes cost a pretty penny! Trying to let relationships evolve naturally and organically is practically impossible with all the over-thinking, over-analysing and overcompensating, that we all enjoy so much. Parents who are brave enough to try unconventional parenting in a “go with the flow, let kids be kids, wear strange clothes and make their own mistakes” kind of way, are ridiculed for actively enforcing a sense of difference which can lead to their offspring being labelled as “oddballs” wrapped in organic cotton.

Yes, life is hard in the organic pesticide-free lane but no good fight was ever easily won! If, on the other hand you prefer your food thoroughly processed and steeped in chemicals, your clothes made from the finest polyester and all your opinions covered in conformity and moulded by social media, then that’s fine too. Here at Gallery, we love all you weirdos in equal measures, organically responsible or alarmingly apathetic. We operate a fully inclusive policy and the truth is, we really don’t care what you think on the broader issues, ethical concerns or political persuasions, as long as you still enjoy flicking through our sustainably wonderful magazine, then we can all be friends.

So grab a glass of organic ginger flavoured kombucha (See! No judgement here) or a filthy glass of fully sugared up coke and drink-in our July edition. Enjoy your summer plans, whether you’re planning an eco-friendly retreat, a club Med special, a day out at the Douglas Carnival or an afternoon smelling the roses at the Isle of Man Flower Festival, just sit back, relax and enjoy the global warming. Come on, everyone needs a day off from worrying about the big stuff, right?

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COVER CREDIT

Hairstyling: Abbie Hunt Model: Rachel Gregson

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Makeup: Heather Maddrell Photography: Shan Fisher

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UPFRONT

WHAT’S ON now – 07.07.2018

ISLE OF MAN FLOWER FESTIVAL

//ISLAND-WIDE// Held annually during the Island’s national week, the flower festival takes place at nearly 20 venues across the Island. This year’s theme is ‘A Manx Year’ and flower arrangers, floral artists, professional and amateur will once again produce stunning displays in churches and public buildings across the Island.

09.07 – 12.07.2018

SOUTHERN 100 ROAD RACES

//BILLOWN COURSE// Many future British and World Champions have ‘cut their teeth’ around the 4.25-mile Billown Course since this meeting began in 1955. Four action packed days, followed an open air Prize Presentation in Castletown Square which adds a special finish to what has become known as ‘the friendly races’. See the website for the best places to watch, and for road closure information. www.southern100.com

www.flowerfest.im

now – 31 July 2018

INNER SPACE – MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE //STUDIO 42, PORT ST MARY// Fans of Julie Denton – or as she now is, Dr Julie Denton – will be delighted by this exhibition of her glass works. Some of them formed the basis of her recent PhD thesis, ‘Inner Space: The development of repeatable techniques to integrate flame-worked inclusions into and onto the sandcast glass form for artists’, and represent an art form which is rarely seen on the Island. www.facebook.com/studio42

now – 29.07.2018

DARE THE MOON

//THE ISLE GALLERY, TYNWALD MILLS// Artreach Studios at the Isle Gallery hosts this much anticipated new solo exhibition ‘Dare the Moon’ from Bruno Cavellec which is a return to his first love, painting, but in these new works he has moved on from what he describes as his own pain, with a more comforting balance between dark and light. www.facebook.com/theislegallery | www.facebook.com/BrunoCavellecArt/

now – end July

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//SAYLE GALLERY DOUGLAS// A rare opportunity to works from the Arts Council Loan Collection hung together in one place, including works by Picasso, Craigie Aitchison, Damien Hirst, David Hockney, Anthony Gormley and many more. This exbition celebrates 25 years of the Loan Collection which was set up in 1993 by local artists David Fletcher and Eileen Schaer, whose own work is also featured with other local artists including Brian Kneale, Ian Coulson and Michael Sandle. www.facebook.com/saylegallery

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14.07.2018

CELTIC GATHERING ISLE OF MAN 2018

//PEEL// Brought to you by Yn Chruinnaght – ‘the gathering in Manx’ – welcomes performers from all across the Celtic world in its 40th anniversary year. This is a real celebration, presenting, amongst others the award-winning Manx, Scottish and Irish band Ímar with award-winning Manx harper Mera Royle (11 July), Irish and Scottish band Las with the Manx gypsy jazz of Clash Vooar (12 July), Welsh band, No Good Boyo with the great Manx family trio The Lawrences (13 July) and on Saturday 14 July : renowned Irish band Altan with inter-Celtic super-trio Keggin, Smith, Stitt.

Plus family ceilis, a Celtic nation parade

ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIPS FELL RACE – THE KATE BURGE SEA-SUMMIT FELL RACE

and outdoor entertainment with early festival lunchtime gigs at Noa Bakehouse in Douglas on 9 & 10 July.

A festival pass is available online only at £55 for all four concerts and entrance to the family ceili after the concerts on Friday and Saturday. www.ynchruinnaght.com

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//LAXEY to SNAEFELL// The 4th Sea-to-Summit race will now count to the English Championships and over 400 runners, including the best from the UK, are expected to take part. The route starts with a hand in the sea off Laxey beach and finishes on the summit of Snaefell. From the lowest point to the highest; 14.5km with an ascent of 1200m – nearly 4000ft, the course is a real test of physical and mental ability but it’s not just a race, it’s an event with food, beer and live music at the summit. www.facebook.com/katesrace

14.07.2018

ALL THINGS STRAWBERRY!

//OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA, QUEEN’S PROMENADE, RAMSEY// The Annual Strawberrry Fair takes place in Ramsey from 12 noon to 4.30pm and is a wonderful family afternoon out including scrumptious strawberry cream teas and towering knickerbocker glory sundaes.

Raffle, stalls, activities and competitions for all ages, with a large marquee should the weather be unkind. Children under 8 years of age can be entered into the competitions for Strawberry Prince of Princess – all they need to do is be dressed in a strawberry themed outfit, the more imaginative, the better.

Free entry – all proceeds to charity.

£38 per month

£23

iPad 32GB + Apple HomePod + Apple AirPods

Powerbeats 3 + FitBit Ionic

per month

call 624 624 see in-store visit manxtelecom.com/summer

Further information from Gail FletcherCooke on 812014 or 423112

15.07.2018

DOUGLAS CARNIVAL

//LOCH PROMENADE, DOUGLAS// Douglas Carnival will once again be showcasing throngs of floats, bands, dance groups, decorated vehicles, along with many other participants and performers on Douglas Promenade on Sunday 15th July 2018.

Sponsored by Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. www.douglascarnival.im

speeds are dependent on chosen tariffs. Terms and conditions apply. See manxtelecom.com/summer for details.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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WHAT’S ON

16.07 – mid August

THE EYES OF THE HOUSE AND OTHER PICTURES

//HODGSON LOOM GALLERY, LAXEY// An exhibition of watercolours from Isle of Man exile David Swinton. David is wellknown on the Island for his wood carving and sculptures, his stamp designs for Isle of Man Post Office and his illuminated illustrations, but this body of work includes paintings he’s worked on over the last 18 years, and which he says he’s “enjoyed painting more than any other recent works”. These paintings are full of rich detail, and it’s worth a trip to Laxey to see not only what he paints, but how he works.

which runs 36 miles across the Island linking the historic centres of Rushen Abbey, Peel Cathedral and Maughold.

The experience offers a chance to take time out for reflection, absorbing local heritage along the way: celtic keeills (early chapels), carved crosses and holy wells. The terrain varies from sheltered glen to scenic clifftop; from rugged moorland to dramatic waterfalls and walkers can choose to do as little as half a day or the whole route. More information from www.pilgrimageisleofman.im/

www.darkhorsemusic.im

21.07.2018

//RUSHEN ABBEY, PEEL CATHEDRAL & MAUGHOLD// A four-day walk along the Triskelion Way, the Isle of Man’s Pilgrimage Trail

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//PEEL// A long standing annual gathering of old boats, maritime culture, boatbuilding and entertainment in the Island’s traditional fishing town. www.peeltraditionalboat.org

www.southernshow.org

//RAMSEY// The Ramsey Carnival starts at 2pm at Ramsey Swimming Pool, continues through Mooragh Park before finishing at the Rugby club with prizes for best float and best costumes provided by the town commissioners. There is still time to enter your float (application forms from jacquik@ manx.net) but walking entries just need to turn up on the day.

Main sponsor Farmers Combine is providing all the kids rides for free and AFD Software is providing help with additional costs.

MANX HERITAGE TRANSPORT FESTIVAL

PILGRIMAGE WALK ALONG THE TRISKELION WAY

PEEL TRADITIONAL BOAT WEEKEND

RAMSEY CARNIVAL

25.07-29.07.201

20.07 – 23.07/2018

27.07 – 29.07.2018

//GREAT MEADOW ESTATE, CASTLETOWN// The agricultural and rural industries of the Island remain the core theme of this show, with the very best examples of lifestock, equine, canine, poultry and small animals on display. Entry is from 10am to 6pm both days, £5 (£3 on Sunday) for adults, £1 (free on Sunday) to under 16s.

DARK HORSE MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL

Adult Weekend Ticket - £55 (including camping)

www.visitisleofman.com/whats-on

SOUTHERN DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL SHOW

20.07 – 22.07.2018

The surrounding fields (as well as housing the campsites) will be alive with local food producers, artists, teachers and musicians sharing what they do.

programme.

28.07 – 29.07.2018

www.facebook.com/ HodgsonLoomGallery/

//SILLY MOOS CAMPSITE, RAMSEY// Three days of music, camping and good company, along with activities, workshops and stalls for the mind, body, soul, eardrums and taste buds. Headline acts include Krafty Kuts plus legendary Jurassic 5 MC Chali 2NA, The Carny Villains, Grinny Grandad, Foxtrap (formerly Baltic States) and local favourites HanFX/ JorDMC and Buncha Skankas amongst others.

JULY

//ISLAND WIDE// Enjoy five action – and nostalgia packed days travel on the Isle of Man Railways unrivalled network of heritage railways. From Vintage Bus Tours of closed lines, Unusual Tram and Trailer combinations, Sunset Dinners at Snaefell and Photography Tours this year’s festival features the retun to service of the legendary Manx Northern Locomotive, ‘Caledonia’ which was built for hauling the heavy mineral trains between Ramsey Harbour and Foxdale Mines.

The Trammers, Groudle Glen Railway, Jurby Transport Museum and various speakers all form part of the 2018 festival

29.07.2018

BLUES & ROOTS – GRANT DERMODY AND JOHN MILLER

//THE CENTENARY CENTRE, PEEL// Local man ‘Blue’ John Gregory presents two of his biggest musical heroes, harmonica player/singer Grant Dermody and guitar player/singer John Miller – all the way from Washington State, USA to the Isle of Man before they cross to Gloucester to teach at the Blues Week there. This Peel gig is just one of two in the British Isles – and is an opportunity not to be missed.

Tickets are £15 (£12 concessions) and are available from Shakti Man in Ramsey and Celtic Gold in Peel. Full price tickets are also available online at www.etickets.im/ bjm ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

DISCOVER THE GREAT OUTDOORS THIS SUMMER

torches, food and more, and drive on board ready for the perfect getaway. When the ferry berths you can drive straight to your destination – no need to waste precious holiday time shopping for supplies.

DO YOU FIND YOURSELF DAYDREAMING OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS, SITTING BY THE CAMPFIRE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND SLEEPING UNDER THE STARS? THEN IT’S TIME TO START PLANNING YOUR NEXT OUTDOOR GETAWAY. Whether it’s hiking, cycling, kayaking, exploring or simply relaxing - there are so many different adventures just waiting to be had in the UK and Ireland this summer.

It is easy to embark on an action-packed camping trip when you travel with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. Here’s just a few reasons why ferry travel is perfect for an outdoor break.

1. There are no luggage fees Just pack the car with everything you need, including tents, blow up beds, pillows, sleeping bags, spare blankets, chairs, toys,

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

2. It’s easy to reach your chosen destination The beauty of the UK and Ireland’s National Parks, countryside and beaches can be hard to resist. But some of the best camping spots are out in the sticks; easy to find in your own car but tricky if travelling by public transport.

4. You can pack more into your trip Bring your car and enjoy the freedom of taking a last-minute detour or pit stop, take in the sights and sounds at your own pace and don’t be afraid to stop and explore if you spot something exciting along the way.

Load up your car, sail across the water and drive into the distance for an unforgettable getaway.

Start planning your summer adventure at www.steam-packet.com today!

Plus, bringing your car on the journey is part of the fun too.

3. Spend more time with your loved ones Start as you mean to go on!

As you sail to your chosen port you can sit back and relax with family and friends.

With a range of comfortable seating available in a choice of lounges on board Ben-my-Chree and Manannan, you will be fully rested and raring to go when it’s time to head onto your next destination.

There’s lots to do on board so why not enjoy your time together, play a game, grab a bite to eat or have a wander on the outside deck to see what wildlife you can spot?

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FEATURE UPFRONT

FEATURE

WORDS Leroy Hudson Russ Atkinson ILLUSTRATION WORDS Leroy Hudson

ILLUSTRATION Russ Atkinson

If you’re alive and online you’ve undoubtedly seen the social media If you’re alive and online you’vewaste undoubtedly the social media and ocean, the up in that endsseen the plastic to reduce campaign campaign to reduce the plastic waste that ends up in the ocean, and specifically to ban disposable drinking straws. specifically to ban disposable drinking straws. greener people indulge in or even rely on. the Earth, if only we’d ban the straws It tugs at our heartstrings with emotive of water bodies scenes It tugsof at the ournear-limitless heartstrings with emotive and in each planet, this of most cover that scenes of the near-limitless bodies of water species the human cranny and of nookmost watery that cover this planet, and in each some of deposit to managed somehow has watery nook and cranny the human species its hasfilth. somehow managed to deposit some of its filth.

There’s a turtle with a straw up its nose; a whale bud; a cotton ridingwith seahorse aThere’s a turtle a straw up its nose; We are microbeads. luxurious in covered a seahorse riding a cotton bud; a whale of those teenagers equivalent planet’s the covered in luxurious microbeads.

We are at up theirofbarbecue didn’t clean who the planet’s equivalent those teenagers the at andupapparently beach, Fenella who didn’t clean their barbecue one of the straw isthe plastic disposable Fenella beach, anddrink apparently save could Surely offenders. worst disposable plastic drinkwestraw is one of the worst offenders. Surely we could save

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tomorrow? the Earth, if only we’d ban the straws tomorrow?

Needless to say, the answer is no. A proper environmentalist would say I’ve chosen Needless to say, the answer is no. A proper a deliberately silly example, and I won’t environmentalist would say I’ve chosen argue, because I’ve done so on purpose. a deliberately silly example, and I won’t The plastic drinking straw is in reality argue, because I’ve done so on purpose. unlikely to be a major contributor to marine The plastic drinking straw is in reality plastic waste. It probably isn’t even in the unlikely to be a major contributor to marine top 100. It doesn’t mean we can start plastic waste. It probably isn’t even in the chucking them about like confetti, but we top 100. It doesn’t mean we can start do need to make more of an effort to locate chucking them about like confetti, but we these stripy devils in a hierarchy of the do need to make more of an effort to locate many, many wasteful products that even these stripy devils in a hierarchy of the many, many wasteful products that even

We should probably ditch the petrol greener people indulge in or even rely on. engine, and disposable nappies, and We should probably ditch the petrol artificial fibres, but the problem is that all of engine, and disposable nappies, and these things are a lot more useful to our artificial fibres, but the problem is that all of lifestyles than plastic straws. It’s harder to these things are a lot more useful to our think about how you’d cope without cement lifestyles than plastic straws. It’s harder to or cheap beef than it is to share a snappy think about how you’d cope without cement video about waste in the ocean. We can all or cheap beef than it is to share a snappy agree that plastic straws aren’t great but video about waste in the ocean. We can all none of us get an A grade in the agree that plastic straws aren’t great but sustainability exam just because we clicked none of us get an A grade in the ‘like’ and didn’t personally wrap a walrus in sustainability exam just because we clicked a bin bag on the weekend. ‘like’ and didn’t personally wrap a walrus in a bin bag on the weekend.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

Get naked and live in a tree

People who can’t be bothered doing anything to preserve the planet often get upset that environmental campaigns try and make them feel guilty. This is a silly thing to get upset about, like sharing a bed with somebody and expecting them not to say something when you insist on peeing in it, but there’s a grain of logic there.

The problem with giving much thought to environmental problems is that you’re likely to become depressed at how little you can personally do about them. As an enthusiastic citizen of a wasteful society, I suspect that cutting out straws alone won’t make the slightest dent in my carbon footprint. I’m not sure I even know where to start.

I have an old university friend, who for legal reasons I’ll call Crusty Bob, who earned his reputation as a veteran and fearless environmental campaigner. He has occupied oil platforms, chained himself to trees, been arrested by the Russians and stalked whaling boats. The last time I spoke to him he was living in a squat and cycling to protests, powered by a vegan diet and a slow-burning rage against mainstream society.

Crusty Bob is an anarcho-syndicalist, adhering to a niche variety of practical socialism that doesn’t leave much room for compromise. He believes that there is literally no other option that will permit the survival of our planetary environment other than the complete dismantling of global capitalism and a return to living in small tribes. He wouldn’t use a plastic drinking straw, but he’d also feel bad about using a private motor vehicle, wearing leather, owning a smartphone, or even having children. As I know he’s done at least two of that short list I can assume he spends a lot of time wracked with guilt, no matter how many videos he shares on the computer he’d probably prefer not to own.

Hank Scorpio: environmental saviour?

Bob is at one end of the scale, but the other isn’t populated by people who pretend

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“If you got this far you’re probably doing a fair bit more than sharing videos on social media - you probably separate your waste, avoid excessive packaging and definitely, absolutely haven’t poured polystyrene on a family of dolphins. You can sleep soundly at night, right?” environmental problems aren’t real, because those people are liars or idiots. It’s people who definitely agree that the human impact on our planet is a problem, but think that the route out of it is the responsibility of other people, or just smarter consumption.

The best contemporary example is celebrity rocket man Elon Musk who (although he doesn’t like taxation) thinks we can use his taxpayer-subsidised rockets to escape the one planet known to be perfectly adapted for life. The same utopian view of technology runs deep in many of his Silicon Valley contemporaries. Like all good Californian citizens they respect the environment, and would definitely frown on you for jamming a straw in an otter’s bottom, but would nonetheless like you not to feel guilty about buying a new computer every twelve months. My computer came with a lovely desktop image of a pristine wilderness, and I’m happy its makers raise awareness of environmental issues, but to see the scale of the disconnect all you need to do is compare photos of the place the computer was designed with some photos of where it was built. I like new computers and space exploration as much as the next nerd but I’m not convinced we can have the low-impact technology campus without the grimy Chinese wasteland, and one is growing faster than the other.

I fought the straw and the straw won

Articles like this occur with great regularity in the quality newspapers and follow a predictable pattern. The writer establishes a real-life ethical conflict, cites some extreme responses and ties it up with some loosely hopeful solutions that imply

the reader should feel okay if they situate themselves somewhere in the middle. If you got this far you’re probably doing a fair bit more than sharing videos on social media - you probably separate your waste, avoid excessive packaging and definitely, absolutely haven’t poured polystyrene on a family of dolphins. You can sleep soundly at night, right?

Well, the problem with this issue is that the truth isn’t somewhere in the middle.

My friend Crusty Bob is much closer to being right - global civilisation is almost certainly doomed unless we make a series of changes that amount to something much more dramatic than enjoying Coca-Cola without a plastic straw. I did promise you that thinking about the environment was depressing, but humanity has overcome many depressing problems, so fatalism isn’t a valid excuse not to make the best of a bad situation. Like most people, I’d find the Crusty Bob lifestyle very hard to emulate, but I do think that the area where we can learn from his approach is that thinking about the impact of consumption and waste is something we need to get used to doing all of the time. If you want to cut out plastic straws then go ahead, but the gesture is worth very little unless you’re prepared to follow it up by thinking about how you’d make a few more difficult changes to your lifestyle. Future generations will thank you, especially if they are trying to bargain with our sea-dwelling overlords for mercy. I can’t predict if the mutant walruses of the year 6000 will have social media videos about us, but keep the possibility in mind next time you’re tempted to leave your Bag For Life under the kitchen sink.

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UPFRONT

COMMUNITY

Family Placement Services’ Family Placement Support Workers Tiz Jones (left) and Sarah Fargher (right) at the Strand Centre in Douglas – one of venues where events were held during Foster Care Fortnight.

COULD YOU BECOME A FOSTER CARER AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO A CHILD’S LIFE?

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Could you make a difference to a child’s life by becoming a foster carer? That’s the question being posed by Family Placement Services, the organisation which is currently running a campaign to find more foster families for children in care here on the Island

past two weeks but also via interest in our fps.co.im website. However, there are bound to be people interested in fostering who were not able to attend one of the events, so we would like to hear from them too in the next few weeks and extend an open invitation for them to get in touch with us.”

The initiative got off to a good start with an encouraging response to events held during Foster Care Fortnight, which took place between May 14th to 27th. Vera Hadwen, Service Manager at Family Placement Services, says that they are still keen for prospective foster carers to come forward. She said: “We had a great response to the events we held during Foster Care Fortnight and have seen a significant increase in interest in fostering – not only by meeting people at events during the

During Foster Care Fortnight the average number of fps.co.im website views increased by nearly 400%. Of course, deciding to become a foster carer is a big decision, and the Family Placement Services team give everyone who expresses an interest the time and space they need to make that decision. Those who have recently decided to apply to become foster carers will soon begin the next steps in the accreditation and training process.

Prospective foster carers need a range of skills and personal qualities, including patience, the ability to listen, being a team player, a sense of humour and much more besides. During Foster Care Fortnight the Family Placement Services team held events in Douglas at Noa Bakehouse, Victoria Road Shoprite, Starbucks, Strand Centre, Tesco, and the Family Placement Services HQ at Bourne House, Woodbourne Road. Events were also held at Tynwald Mills and Peel Shoprite.

Anyone who is interested in fostering, but who wasn’t able to attend one of the Foster Care Fortnight events, can contact Family Placement Services by phoning 01624 610000 or sending a message via fps.co.im which is packed with useful information about fostering.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Discover the Emerald Isle this summer

Explore impressive scenery at the Cliffs of Moher, discover the Titanic Experience or road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way. Make the most of Ireland and enjoy the best of Dublin and Belfast, plus everything in between, by sailing into one city and home from the other. Pack everything you need in the car and get ready for a great getaway.

CAR + 2 ADULTS

Take your vehicle No luggage fees

ÂŁ102* each way

Convenient ports

NO LUGGAGE FEES

Stretch your legs

from

Pack more in - sail by ferry.

Book now at STEAM-PACKET.COM Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. A combination of ports should be considered. *Valid for travel from 13/06/2018 – 03/09/2018. Journeys must be completed within five days - day of outward sailing counts as day one. Return sailing must commence on or before day five.

UPFRONT

in NUMBERS NEWS

20 Douglas Borough Council’s new public toilets on Queen’s Promenade are now open. The project, to remove and landscape over the old underground toilets and install the above-ground two-cubicle unit, represents a £104,000 investment by the council. The charge for use of the toilets remains at 20p.

19 1

A new mini-bus service offering Island patients convenient transport between home and hospital will take to the roads from 1 July. The Patient Transport Services has been awarded by the Department of Health and Social Care to Bus Vannin. The service had previously been provided by the Red Cross.

Crosby Terrace Post Office situated in Laureston Terrace, Douglas, will close for business at the end of August. Sub Postmaster Jack Coop has tendered his resignation to retire after almost 19 years of running the post office.

did you know in 2017...

35,082

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During 2017 the average house price in the Isle of Man stood at £262,688 and the average flat was £151,296. 39% of applicants for house purchase assistance were under 25 years of age.

In December 2017, the number of people in employment stood at 35,082 in 51,493 jobs. There were also 7,581 people who were self-employed.

2,575 driving tests were taken during the year, with an average pass rate of 45% for men and 39% for women.

960

960 tonnes of glass were recycled after being collected at Bring Banks in the Isle of Man last year.

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2,575

7,990

In 2017, a total of 7,990 passports were issued on the Island.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

FOREIGN EXCHANGE

Give an animal a home

ONE LESS THING TO WORRY ABOUT THIS SUMMER...

Start relaxing now with foreign currency from Isle of Man Post Office – the most convenient way to get your holiday money!

Whatever currency you need, order in branch or online and get next day delivery for free.

Euros and US Dollars now instantly available in: Port Erin, Peel, Laxey, Douglas, Ramsey and Post Office Headquarters.

iompost.com/forex

UPFRONT

FEATURE

ds Wor

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Clare

ie

Bow

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

1.The countdown: You’ve spent months thinking about it, taking care of all the passport, flight, hire- car, currency admin, buying approximately 15 bottles of sunscreen and 21 new outfits (even though you know you’ll end up rotating the same four) and the countdown has begun; “only two weeks to go” is your new (annoying and moronic) mantra.

red?? It’s a lot to handle for your tiny mind. It’s not helped when everyone else seems to have an instant all over tan and you still look blotchy and temporarily blinded from sunscreen and why oh why do the mosquitos like your blood so much and btw how loud are those crickets? This is just so relaxing...

2. The unravel: The thing is, everything was ticking along nicely, but now that you know you only have 336 hours until you leave, the wheels get looser and you start to fray at the edges....

Your anger issues are now officially off the scale.

Seriously though, why are the people at work so annoying? You could handle their whinging in May and even June but now is not the time, so, back off with your snivelling HR emails and accounts requests! You start to realise that you really, really, NEED this holiday.

7. Keep schtum: Evidently, some of your friends may not be familiar with new fangled notions of UV rays and skin cancer and feel it would be wrong to go home without looking like Rudolf, but it’s probably best to just let them baste it out rather than sunburn- shame them. After all, “going for the burn” and getting a good peel going is the trademark of a successful holiday in their book. They also firmly believe that “eating is cheating” during all day drinking sessions and may generally embarrass you so much that you start to wish you could just go back to work. #notfuninthesun

3. Zero Tolerance: It gets worse as the days go on... You pop to the supermarket after work and there’s always one person in the queue exhibiting the following kinds of behaviour: n They have adopted a “tops off” policy despite the fact that the shop is air conditioned n They have not washed in a week n They are hovering at an unacceptable distance; do they actually want to sit on your shoulder?? n They are checking out your basket (not a euphemism) and probably judging you and your excessive wine and sunscreen addiction n They are TALKING to you when you are clearly a person of zero tolerance!

4. Finally! The day has come when you and your mates/family/randomers can escape the madness and start some serious scheduled-in relaxing. Your thoughts on day one: Yes, you’re a varied group but what could possibly go wrong? The whatsapp holiday group chat was all kinds of hilarious and you know this trip is going to be the perfect mix of relaxing and partying. Fun in the sun, here we come!

Your thoughts on day ten: Oh dear God, why do they have to breathe this loudly though?

5. Don’t be a martyr: If you’re going to enjoy this holiday you have to try and establish some mental ground rules in your head. Remind yourself not to moan about always being the one to get the drinks, bring in the towels etc. just be upfront at the start and agree everyone tidies up their own crap. No big deal, right? I mean, it’s not like they would leave all their glasses on the table overnight (every night) and expect someone to gather them up, wash them, dry them and put them away is it??? Hypothetically speaking...

6 .It’s all so different: You’re finally here, but why do you have that nagging homesick feeling? It’s just that it really is very hot, your hair has gone proper Monica-humid-style, the time difference is confusing and why does it have to get so dark in like an instant? One minute you nip to the loo and emerge 5 minutes later in a veil of darkness, it’s overwhelming! Also, what milk are you actually buying? Is green milk blue here and what is the BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

8. Be Nice: You may need to rehearse what to say in a desperate attempt to try to swallow your passive aggressive stream of consciousness: “Is it ok if I just quickly use the shower first tonight hon?” (since you take 45 minutes, use all the hot water, make a massive squeeze dent in my molton brown blossoming honeysuckle and white tea shower gel and don’t think that I haven’t noticed my Bioaqua nourishing nutrition essential oil conditioner hasn’t got suspiciously low either missy!!). The effort required to be so “on form”, tolerant and nice all the time is totally exhausting.

Why do people have to talk so much?? *weeps into sangria* 9.Eating habits: Brace yourself, there’s always one who takes FOREVER to get ready. Was she always this self obsessed? By the time you do get out you’re all aggressively hungry and end up having to eat in the classy restaurant with the pictures outside. “Thin brown holiday steak please, and if you could just round up a skinny cat to come and join us, that would be great, and by the way, what’s the deal with the never-cleaning-your-toilets policy?? Bet you don’t put that image on the picture board!” Retch much?

10. Compromise: Probably best to accept that the whole trip will have to be about compromise as you all have differing notions of what a holiday means. Making a few ground rules or taking it in turns to do shopping is one thing but drawing up a “kitty spreadsheet” based on accumulated expenditure and laminating a cleaning rota is quite another. Relaxing with a book and not a mojito does not make your friend a bad person.

Consistently “forgetting” to buy the drinks, assuming the sunscreen is communal, never washing dishes or repeatedly borrowing your clothes, do, on the other hand make your friend a bad person. Happy Holidays x

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UPFRONT

GIVE OLD MUTUAL INTERNATIONAL REWARDS PUPILS FOR MONEY SKILLS Pupils from King William’s College and Ramsey Grammar School won prizes in this year’s Old Mutual International Money Skills for Schools Week.

The annual scheme, first held in 2015, is designed to equip young people on the Island with the skills and knowledge they need to make informed decisions about a wide range of issues regarding money.

Last month [MAY] MyBnk financial experts, supported by school teachers and more than 60 volunteers from Old Mutual International, visited Castle Rushen, Queen Elizabeth II, and St Ninian’s high schools, Ramsey Grammar School, and King William’s College. Using interactive games, quizzes and activities, they brought money matters to life so that pupils could learn about a wide range of money matters including budgeting, borrowing, saving, understanding pay slips, and other aspects of personal finances and living independently.

Pupils also had a chance to win prizes in a competition which tested the knowledge they had gained. First prize – the latest Apple iPad – was awarded to 13-yearold King William’s College pupil Julian Callister. Runners-up prizes of £100 and £50

Wendy Ranft-Gerber with, Maeve Wilson, Julian Callister and Sinead Curphey

vouchers for any brand of their choice were presented to 13-year-old King William’s College pupil, Maeve Wilson, and Ramsey Grammar School pupil, Sinead Curphey, also aged 13.

Wendy Ranft-Gerber, Communications Business Partner at Old Mutual International, presented the prizes to the winners at the company’s headquarters at

King Edward Bay House, Onchan. She said: “Many congratulations to the winners on their achievement, and thank you to all of the school pupils and teaching staff who supported the scheme this year. We must also thank our partners at MyBnk as well as the Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, Graham Cregeen MHK, for his generous support.”

BOS SUPPORTS BREAST CANCER FUNDRAISING EFFORTS

Charity fundraiser Ann-Marie Clucas has smashed her target of money raised for the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group by well over £3000.

“A very close friend of my mums was diagnosed with breast cancer late last year. This is an awful disease and any fund raising can make a difference,” she said.

The Team Leader at Douglas-based BOS Limited clinched her second finish in the Parish Walk to bring her current total to £3,680.

She also organised a charity fitness day at the Warehouse Fitness Ladies Gym in Douglas on 5th May 2018, which saw more than 45 women take part in exercise classes throughout the day.

A keen fitness fan, Ann-Marie began her ongoing quest to raise money for local breast cancer support after learning that a friend had developed the disease.

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The event itself raised £1,253.00 which was then boosted by Ann-Marie’s employer BOS Limited.

Ann-Marie said: “I’m very lucky to have the sponsorship backing of my employer BOS Limited who have been kind enough to match my fundraising pound for pound.

BOS Limited Director Edward Games said: “We are very proud of the amount of hard work and effort that Ann-Marie puts into her fundraising activities for this very important cause, so it goes without saying that we want to help her as much we possibly can.”

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

MANX LOTTERY TRUST SUPPORTS BEACH BUDDIES ISLE OF MAN Beach Buddies is helping to renovate a shoreline building, with help from Manx Lottery Trust.

The building, ‘The Bone Mill’, is located on Brewery Bay opposite The Shore Hotel in Gansey. It is owned by the Gawne family of Kentraugh who have kindly given Beach Buddies a lease and also contributed to the first phase of the

renovation of the building.

It will be used as a southern hub for the charity, who will invite groups such as schools, Guides, Scouts and sports clubs for educational workshops, meet volunteers for beach cleaning events and store equipment such as bin bags, gloves and litter pickers.

Beach Buddies, founded by Bill Dale in 2006, runs beach cleaning events every weekend of the year, alternating between the north and south of the Island. Bill, alongside more than 9,000 other volunteers, is dedicated to putting the Isle of Man on the map for having the cleanest beaches in Europe. www.mlt.org.im | www.beachbuddies.net

Manx Lottery Trust Secretary Trevor Butler, Chairman Sarah Kelly, Treasurer Jan Blake with Bill Dale from Beach Buddies.

BOOKS GALORE PROVIDE WRITE STUFF FOR NOBLE’S PATIENTS Patients at Noble’s Hospital will be offered extra comforts during their stay, thanks to a double donation from Isle of Man based Zurich International.

Staff at the firm’s newly-opened headquarters in Isle of Man Business Park donated a consignment of books for readers of all ages and tastes, to stock the hospital’s popular library trolley. A cheque for £1,250 for the Patients’ Comfort Trust was presented to volunteers and staff when they collected the books – the proceeds of staff donations for dress-down days, which are matched by the company.

Zurich International Global Community Champion Ruth Adamson said: It’s great that we have been able to tie in our monthly dress-down collection, which is made up from staff donations with £ for £ matching, with our recent Zurich Group World Book BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Day campaign. Our staff in the Isle of Man generously donated 250 books in excellent condition, among the 6,150 books donated across the Zurich Group, which can now benefit patients at Noble’s Hospital.’

Aalish Bridson, Zurich International IOM charity coordinator presents the cheque to Bev Wilson and Jan Gaskill

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••••

UPFRONT

HEY, WHAT’S THE HOLD UP HERE?! WE’VE MADE IT ALL THE WAY TO THE QUARTER BRIDGE. GET MOVING!

MANN TAILS #8

I CAN’T, I... I JUST DON’T GET IT!

We have animals given to us for rehoming for all sorts of reasons - an owner’s death, divorce or house move, for example.

We never judge an owner and we’re simply grateful that they have brought their pet to us for a second chance, but we are saddened when an owner brings us their cat because they are expecting a baby.

... ...

WHAT IS WITH PEOPLE AT THIS ROUNDABOUT?!

JUST-

WHO HAS RIGHT OF WAY HERE? NO ONE IS MOVING. IT’S ALL JUST SO AWKWARD.

There are many myths around babies and cats, the most common one being that a cat may smother a sleeping child. Statistically this is incredibly rare, and it’s easy to take precautions such as using a cot net, or simply keeping a cat locked out of the nursery. There is a lot of research to suggest that a baby brought up with pets has a better immune system and less respiratory issues later in life.

Alfie

Alfie’s previous owners were worried that he wouldn’t be safe around a new baby, and so here he is – looking for a new family. He is the most affectionate and gregarious cat you could wish to meet, and he loves people, other cats and he’d probably adjust well to a friendly dog. He’s only nine months old and so he’ll need a new home where he will be given lots of attention and play time.

GO ALREADY!!!

Timmy

A house move is the reason why little Timmy the Chihuahua was gifted in to us, having spent all of his eleven years with one family.

He is very sprightly and energetic, and in good health, with a big personality inside such a tiny body. He will need a quiet retirement home, with no young children, so that he can resume his role as the perfect companion. A nice warm lap, interspersed with some gentle walks, is all he is asking for.

Small dogs tend to find new homes very quickly, and so we encourage anyone who would like to adopt one to complete a Homefinder Questionnaire, available on the Adoption pages of the ManxSPCA website, so that we can keep their details on a waiting list.

ManxSPCA • Ard Jerkyll, East Foxdale • Tel: 851672

www.manxspca.com

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

SUNSHINE AND RECORDS AT THE TT GRANDSTAND FOR RL360 GUESTS A group of 30 RL360 staff and guests enjoyed a day at the TT Grandstand Hospitality Marquee on the Monday of Race Week.

RL360 has been title sponsor of the Superstock TT since 2002 and each year takes the opportunity to invite key stakeholders to the event to experience the spectacle of racing on the Mountain Course.

The RL360 Superstock was particularly exciting and close run this year. The race saw the top three riders – Peter Hickman (Smiths Racing BMW), Michael Dunlop (MD Racing BMW) and Dean Harrison (Silicone Engineering Kawasaki) - swap positions throughout the 4-lap race.

Hickman scored a stunning new lap record

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EVENTS

PHOTOS BY: AMANDA NICHOLSON - WWW.AJN.PHOTOGRAPHY

of 134.403mph in the final lap which propelled the Burton upon Trent rider to take the chequered flag and his maiden TT win. Dunlop and Harrison were second and third on the podium, respectively.

Following the race, RL360 guests were treated to an appearance by Hickman in the hospitality marquee.

“It was a fantastic day from start to finish,” said RL360 Marketing Director Simon Barwell. “Our guests were extremely well looked after by event staff and really enjoyed getting up close to the riders on the grid and the startline before the racing. It’s an amazing experience.

“And, of course, a day of beautiful sunshine helped!”

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EVENTS

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THE WEDDING OF BETH GEORGIOU AND ADAM HOWARTH, MARRIED ON THE 5TH MAY 2018 AT ST NINIAN CHURCH, DOUGLAS.

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Reception: The Douglas Ruby Club Photos by: Shan Fisher

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It’s the little things that make life big...

Newborn / Baby / Family www.shansphoto.com | photo@shansphoto.com | 07624 418031

CULTURE

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CULTURE

In what has been dubbed ‘Culture Month’ by Year of Our Island 2018, it’s appropriate that no fewer than three major art exhibitions are now on in Laxey, Douglas and St Johns – and all worth a visit.

Words by: Suzy Holland Images: IOM Arts Council, David Swinton & Bruno Cavellec

At the Sayle Gallery, their ‘culture month’ exhibition is a rare opportunity to see much, but not all, of the Arts Council Loan Collection hung together in one place. To most of us this collection is all but invisible: individual works hung in school corridors, government offices, the prison and elsewhere and definitely not advertised or promoted in anyway, so it might be a surprise to know that it includes work by such household names as David Hockney, Anthony Gormley, Peter Blake, Damien Hirst and even a Picasso.

The collection was launched in 1994 at the Manx Museum and twenty five years on this is replicated and updated in an appropriately titled exhibition, ‘25’.

In the early 1990s, artist Eileen Schaer and her late husband David Fletcher persuaded

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the IOM Arts Council that students and local art lovers deserved the opportunity to see exemplary contemporary art close up and they trawled galleries and collections across the UK, with a limited budget but extraordinary vision. Nowadays it’s hard to remember the time when you couldn’t just google an artist and see their works on your phone, but back then David Fletcher, not only an artist himself but also a teacher at IOM College knew that however extensive the college’s library was, looking at reproductions in art books is very much a second-best option. As the years went on, works by leading Isle of Man artists were added to the collection, and in ‘25’ the Sayle Gallery will exhibit just part of this loan collection, with the likes of Julien Opie and Patrick Caulfield rubbing shoulders – metaphorically of course – with Michael Sandle, Brian Kneale, Ian Coulson, and with the works of Schaer and Fletcher themselves.

It’s a rare privilege to see into an artist’s soul, but that is exactly what you get at the Isle Gallery’s exhibition of new work from Bruno Cavellec. After a foray into digital art for his 2016 exhibition, ‘Dare the Moon’ is a return to his first love, painting, and to Bruno’s intensely biographical introspective work. But now he has moved on from what Bruno describes as his own pain, with a more comforting, and comfortable, balance between dark and light.

Continue...

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if, like me, you’re a fan of Bruno’s darker works don’t worry - you’ll still find much to love in ‘Dare the Moon’ which is on at the Isle Gallery until 29 July.

Meanwhile, at the Hodgson Loom Gallery in Laxey, curator Julia Ashby Smyth has pulled off something of a coup – an exhibition of watercolours from Isle of Man ‘exile’ David Swinton. Now retired, this celebrated artist, wood carver and sculptor left the Island some years ago to work as an artist in residence around the South East of England, but not before carving the falcon plaque at the Isle of Man Bank on Athol Street, creating and casting the bronze Marina at the Villa, several sets of postage stamps for Isle of Man Post Office, and an illuminated map of Kerrowgarrow Farm which has been accepted into the Manx Museum collection and which will go on show there shortly.

“I’ve long been influenced by the work of German romantic painter Caspar David Friedrich for whom mood was paramount,” says Bruno, “and although landscapes play a huge part in his work, and mine, I don’t see myself as a traditional landscape painter. All my work comes from within and in ‘Dare the Moon’ I feel that I’m really connecting with my true nature with a return to my childhood tendency to be lost in my own thoughts, or as the French say ‘être dans la lune’ - being ‘in the moon’.”

You could spend years investigating the symbolism of the moon in various religious and philosophical texts, but many interpretations see it as intrinsically female. Followers of Bruno’s art will know that in his earlier paintings, the figures are exclusively male but now in some of his works for ‘Dare the Moon’ Bruno has painted female figures, caught in the moon’s light or its shadows, and although there are still some male figures, it’s the women who are taking centre stage. But

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‘The Eyes of the House and other pictures’ opens at the Hodgson Loom Gallery on 16 July and continues until mid-August, and is an exhibition of David’s latest body of work – watercolours which he says he’s “enjoyed painting more than any other recent works”. ‘The Eyes of the House…’ includes paintings David has worked on over the last eighteen years, of subjects found close to his home in Peterborough, in the Isle of Man and in Crete and Spain and although his paintings are usually broader in scale, these are full of rich detail and are worthy of close examination. Also included in the exhibition is a panel showing David’s watercolour techniques which will be of interest to any art student or painter as well as those who simply want to see how he moves from initial tonal sketches to the finished work.

So there you have it: for art lovers everywhere, July really is ‘Culture Month’ – and these three exhibitions are part of that celebration. Whether you want to see original art from artists you never get see, watercolours from a master or want a peak into a local artist’s exploration of his own soul, ‘25’, ‘The Eyes of the House…’ and ‘Dare the Moon’ are not to be missed.

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CULTURE NEWS MAYOR OF DOUGLAS UNVEILS BLUE PLAQUE IN MEMORY OF MURRAY LAMBDEN

On Friday June 22 the Mayor of Douglas Jon Joughin unveiled a blue plaque on Loch Promenade in memory of race walker Murray Lambden.

He was joined at the short ceremony by Mr Lambden's widow, Marie.

Ahead of the unveiling, which took place the evening before the 2018 Parish Walk, an event in which Mr Lambden was a leading figure for many years, the Mayor said that the council did not erect blue plaques without serious consideration of the impact the person the plaque commemorates has had on Douglas and the Isle of Man. The only two previous recipients have been Archibald Knox and the Bee Gees.

He went on to speak of how Mr Lambden's loss had been felt widely across the island by the many people whose lives crossed with his as family and friends, and through his committed work with the island’s athletic community and his support for charity, particularly autism Initiatives.

He continued: 'Murray was a dedicated sportsman who achieved international status at race walking, representing the Isle of Man in the Commonwealth Games in Brisbane in 1982 and also Great Britain on BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

a number of occasions. He won the Parish Walk in 1978; the End to End Walk in 1981 and was runner-up in the British 100km Road Walk Championships in the same year. He held Manx race walking records over all distances from 3kms to 50kms. At the time of his death he held Isle of Man records for various distances in 45, 50 and 55 year age groups.

'Murray was also a sports administrator. He set up, funded and maintained the Manx Athletics website www.manxathletics.com, developed the live streaming website for the Parish Walk and was a central figure in the Manx Harriers Club.

'His websites are so special they have been preserved by the British Library.

'Murray was an inspiration to many Manx sportspeople, leading by example and assisting in the promotion and improvement of Manx sportsmen and women, giving them the opportunity to compete against athletes on the international stage.

'Away from sports, Murray was a driving force for the improvement of services for people with autism and Asperger’s and was instrumental with Marie in having

legislation re-drafted as a result of which the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service was introduced and Autism Initiatives established in the island.

'He campaigned vigorously for Douglas promenade walkway to remain free from horse trams and parked cars, to be enjoyed to the full by pedestrians. Murray adored the beauty of the Isle of Man, and was a photographer of both sporting events and the Manx landscape. Money raised from his photographs has benefited several island charities. He could be seen with his camera at most athletics events and was pivotal in producing photographic coverage for the Parish Walk and in bringing the event into the digital age and recording a complete record of Manx athletics.

'This blue plaque has therefore been located close to the Parish Walk finish line in recognition of Murray’s success in and love for the event.'

In her reply Mrs Lambden expressed her thanks to Douglas Borough Council for arranging and installing the plaque on the wall of the northernmost of the Marine Gardens. 'It couldn't be in a better place,' she said.

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UPFRONT CULTURE

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CULTURE NEWS Talented Isle of Man performer Georgia Maddocks has completed her final group showcase at the London School of Musical Theatre (LSMT).

TALENTED MANX PERFORMER THRIVING AT LONDON SCHOOL OF MUSICAL THEATRE

In the final showcase, which gives musical theatre students an opportunity to perform publicly together in a London Theatre and put into action what they have learned over the past year, Georgia and her group performed ‘Lock up your Daughters’, a musical based on an 18th century comedy.

Georgia commented: ‘The group showcase was a great experience which I have taken away so much from. The show mirrored the demand experienced by professionals in a West End show, from the auditions to the wardrobe fittings, so I feel very prepared for the future.

‘To work alongside such talented performers and be coached by truly inspirational teachers and industry experts has been incredible, and I couldn’t wish for a better start to my musical theatre career.

‘I am so grateful to be given this opportunity and I can’t thank Stuart and the team at Auxesia enough. Not only have they provided me with financial assistance to help meet the costs of the course and living in London, but their advice and guidance over the past nine months has been invaluable.’

Next up at LSMT Georgia will perform her final individual showcase in front of Theatre Agents. This is an opportunity for the students to build their portfolio and where they hope to be talent spotted for West End shows.

Stuart Colligon, Director at Auxesia, said: ‘We are so impressed with Georgia and how well she is doing at LSMT. It’s a reflection of our appetite for helping business leaders

to succeed - offering just the right amount of support and guidance to help them grow and flourish - we are passionate about helping talented individuals to reach their potential.

‘It continues to be a pleasure to help Georgia, she has so much natural talent and we have no doubt her ambition of having a long and successful career in musical theatre is well within her reach.’

The 20-year-old from Douglas was one of just 42 students selected from more than 750 applicants, to win a place on the oneyear Musical Theatre Course.

To find out more about the local firm and the work that it does, visit: www. adifferentwayofthinking.com.

NEW CHILDREN’S BOOK FROM LOAGHTAN BOOKS The second in the popular series of children’s books featuring the trams of the Manx Electric Railway is now available.

Stick to Safety stars Pam the Paddlebox who thinks that red is rubbish. She used to be green but had been repainted red and didn’t like it at all. When Pam broke the rules trying to be different she got everything muddled and trailer Tina had to help make things safe again.

Aimed at children aged around 6 to 8, the book is written by Sara Goodwins and illustrated in full colour. It retails at £5.95 and is available from bookshops and gift shops around the island. www.loaghtanbooks.com

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BUISNESS NEWS -

B R O W N E C R A I N E I N T E R N AT I O N A L C O N F E R E N C E

ISLE OF MAN BRAND VOICE -

TECHNOLOGY -

MASTERPIXEL MEDIA

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Business news

Back row L to R: Chris Gledhill (PDMS), Simon Nicholas (KPMG), Sir Richard Gozney, Mike Phillips (Sure). Front row L:R Ivan Sapunov (Bridge summer intern), Roberta Castle (Continent 8), Katie Nicholson (Bridge Manager), Voirrey Barron (Manx Marketing Exchange)

Bridge celebrates its second birthday and a visit from the Lieutenant Governor, Sir Richard Gozney

B

ridge, the Isle of Man’s angel investor network and business accelerator, recently hosted a private event to celebrate its second birthday and entrepreneurship on the Isle of Man. The evening event held at the Bath & Bottle at the end of May, which saw his Excellency Sir Richard Gozney in attendance, was organised with the aim of bringing together almost 100 guests including investors, entrepreneurs and senior members of the business community, who have worked with or supported Bridge since its formation in May 2016.

Since launch, Bridge has met with over 140 start-ups and entrepreneurs, 53% of these represent the Tech and Biomed/ Health sectors and 60% have received free mentoring and assistance from Bridge’s sponsors and team of volunteer mentors.

Bridge not only provides free mentoring, networking opportunities and pitch events, it also shares viable business opportunities with its long list of registered Bridge investors.

Bridge Chairman, Simon Nicholas of KPMG, commented: “Bridge has had a very busy two years and we’ve met a wide range of businesses from a variety of sectors, many of which have received support and investment from registered investors, as a result of our involvement. Bridge also works closely

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Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney talks to sponsors and guests

with its corporate sponsors, who have donated a combined £112,500 to support Bridge (a not for profit) with operational costs. They’ve also donated more than 420 hours of mentoring for start-ups and entrepreneurs in the past two years which is invaluable in helping start-ups become ‘investor-ready’ and develop their business models, to improve their chance of success.

In fact, of the start-ups introduced to the Bridge investor network, 19% have received local investment funding, which compares favourably to the UK figures”.

The Lieutenant Governor, Sir Richard Gozney added:

“It is great to see Bridge reaching its second birthday; they’re going from strength to strength. Bridge does an excellent job in the business community by bringing together entrepreneurs and potential investors through its many networking events. They are helping to promote the Isle of Man and to grow the Manx economy longer term”.

To find out more about Bridge please visit www.bridge.co.im

ON THE AGENDA

Browne Craine to host International Conference on the Island Browne Craine & Co is set to host the TAG Alliances’ UK and Ireland Regional Conference between 13th - 15th July on the Isle of Man.

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AG Alliances is an alliance of independent legal and accountancy firms from around the world. Having joined over 10 years ago, Browne Craine is proud to be a long standing accountancy member representing the Isle of Man. Members are carefully selected for membership based on professional competence, commitment to client service, reputation within the business community, and recommendations from existing members. Through TAG Alliances, Browne Craine has the global reach to serve clients wherever the growth of their business takes them.

Earlier this year, Browne Craine Director Basil Bielich was invited to join TAG Alliances’ Advisory Board of Directors. Browne Craine were then invited to host the TAG Alliances’ Annual UK and Ireland Regional Conference this summer on the Isle of Man. The purpose of the conference is to bring together members from the UK and Ireland to see whether there are any opportunities to do business together and raise awareness of what the Isle of Man has to offer in the wider business community.

The conference will be action packed with various events planned during the weekend.

“I’m delighted that Browne Craine is hosting this year’s UK and Ireland Regional Conference,” said Basil. “It will be a weekend of interesting discussions and there will be time for plenty of networking in the best places to showcase the Isle of Man to our visitors. Browne Craine has been involved with TAG Alliances for a long time so I’m thrilled that the Isle of Man is going to host the next conference. Being part of the TAG Alliances means that, despite operating only from the Isle of Man, we have a wealth of reliable contacts worldwide who can help our clients when needed.

BUSINESS NEWS

I’d like to thank DQ, Peregrine Corporate Services, the Department for Enterprise and The International Stock Exchange for their participation in the weekend. We look forward to welcoming all our guests to the Island and wish them an enjoyable stay here.”

“Firstly I’d like to thank Browne Craine for organising the conference,” said Richard Attisha, President of TAG Alliances. “We haven’t held a conference on the Island before, although I have visited a few times.

The Isle of Man is a vital jurisdiction for the world’s financial markets and economies.

I’m looking forward to seeing the Island properly and catching up with our Isle of Man members, Browne Craine, Peregrine Corporate Services and DQ Advocates.”

If you would like to find out more about Browne Craine or TAG Alliances, please go to: www.brownecraine.com or call 01624 629369.

Basil Bielich Browne Craine Director

“I’m delighted that Browne Craine is hosting this year’s UK and Ireland Regional Conference”

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Business news

ISLE OF MAN POST OFFICE’S FIVE-YEAR STRATEGY

I IOMBN members “Digest Brexit” at ISLEXPO

T

he Isle of Man Business Network (“IOMBN”) was pleased to be involved once again with the Island’s third ISLEXPO conference in May, hosting an early breakfast event for 139 delegates “Digesting Brexit”. While the rest of the British Isles may be suffering from Brexit fatigue, the Isle of Man holds a unique position in Europe, one that keeps the Island cool, calm and (mostly) collected during this time of uncertainty. Sponsored

by The International Stock Exchange (“TISE”), the event was aimed to explore Brexit and what effect it will have on the Isle of Man’s future.

The event was opened by Minister Skelly and was hosted by Yuri Bender.

Yuri is a high profile journalist who has written many pieces about the Isle of Man and was well suited to chair the Brexit panel. Joining Yuri on the panel were Della Fletcher (Cabinet Office), Carl Hawker (Department for Enterprise), David Hester (Swagelok), Sandra Skuszka (KPMG) and Carolyn Gelling (TISE) who all seemed positive about Brexit and the impact it will have on the Island.

During the discussions, the panel highlighted how good the Isle of Man is at “small and niche” markets and specialised business and that as an Island, we should continue to be well placed for this after Brexit.

“One of the key themes to emerge from the session was that the Isle of Man has developed an ecosystem which allows growth companies to thrive,” said Carolyn Gelling, Head of the Isle of Man Office of TISE. “Businesses need to be able to call upon a range of support services to enable them to develop, not least financing options ranging from angel investors through to access to the capital markets in the form of TISE. Combine this with the certainty afforded by the island’s long-term position as a financial services jurisdiction which is already a third country in relation to the European Union and the Isle of Man is very well positioned. However,

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it is important that we continue to work collectively to build on our successes and innovate so that we can take advantage of opportunities, which may come in niche sectors and allow us to support growing local businesses, as well as those from further afield, such as the UK.” Other elements which businesses need to help them grow include access to markets, technology and a skilled workforce.

There was a feeling from both delegates and the panel that the Island should look at growing the working age population but felt that Brexit will make this more difficult.

However, as the Island already has lots of people who work here who have moved from further afield than Europe, it is hoped that this won’t massively impact the Island.

With the recent changes to work permits and the immigration system we should also now be better placed to attract new people to the Island.

The panel were also keen to stress that there is a lot of work going on in the background at the Cabinet Office and in the Government on Brexit.

“Brexit is a subject that we continue to talk about and can sometimes offer times of uncertainty,” said Dearbhla Doyle, Vice-Chairman at the IOMBN. “It was interesting listening to the panel’s views about the subject and was pleasing to hear that they were all very optimistic about the Island’s future and the opportunities the Island might have. I’d like to thank Yuri and each of the panellists for taking their time out to speak to our delegates and express their thoughts, and of course to TISE for sponsoring the event.”

sle of Man Post Office (IOMPO) is committed to looking at ways in which it can best secure prosperity and has developed a new five-year strategy to address a number of widespread industry challenges that the business is facing.

IOMPO has seen significant decline in its traditional areas; in the last 10 years the number of letters has reduced by 47%, evidencing people don’t post as much with the emergence of emails, text messages, mobile phone apps, video messaging etc.

While over the counter transactions are declining as customers choose to do their business via online services (transactions have fallen by 7% per year on average over the last three years). The cost of IOMPO’s pension scheme is also increasing and is not sustainable in its current form and therefore needs to be addressed. The strategy is required to help sustain the business in the long term as a modern, self-funding Post Office fit for the future and has been developed in line with the business’s vision, mission and values and contributes to key themes for the Programme of Government and SAVE initiatives.

The overall strategy looks at each of the four divisional areas of the business: Letters and Parcels, Sub-Post Office Network, Integrated Mailing Solutions (IMS) and Stamps and Coins. It aims to streamline processes and develop new ways of working through the use of technology across many of its services while continuing to provide high levels of customer service.

As part of the overall strategy review for the Letters and Parcels and Sub-Post Office Network divisions, IOMPO will shortly be launching a public consultation, open to Isle of Man residents and businesses, to seek their feedback on how best to make its letters, parcel deliveries and post office services in the community more sustainable and affordable. This is against the backdrop of falling letter volumes and fewer people using sub-post offices.

These services are currently significantly subsidised by other commercial activities.

IOMPO wants all users of postal services to have the opportunity to help shape decisions and future enhancements to these important community aspects of IOMPO.

ON THE AGENDA

movers & shakers

Digital tech drives Manx Telecom’s corporate sales recruitment

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commitment to enabling clients to seize the opportunities created by digital technology is continuing to drive Manx Telecom’s corporate sales recruitment.

Jen Turner is the latest addition, joining the company as a Corporate Account Manager.

She will work with a strong team dedicated to matching corporate clients with products and services in the company’s comprehensive business solutions portfolio.

Andrew Honour congratulated Jen on her appointment and added: ‘We’re investing in people and technology to help our corporate customers reap the benefits of the latest technology. Jen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and is a great addition to our Corporate Sales team.’

Jen joins Manx Telecom from Viking Office Systems where she was a Client Manager for six years.

With previous roles off-island at British Telecom and Ascom Wireless Solutions spanning nearly 10 years, Jen brings with her a varied wealth of knowledge in communication technology and account management. She said: ‘I am really looking forward to bringing something new to my existing contacts, as well as developing new relationships.

This role will allow me to bring my extensive experience in the communications industry to my customers, old and new.’

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

WWW.NEDBANKPRIVATEWEALTH.COM

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

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

company review

Blockchain, bitcoin and beyond:

navigating the minefield Words by: Alex Bell

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ON THE AGENDA

I

sn’t it strange how this hyperconnected, utopian futurepresent we appear to be living in can make us feel so… Disconnected?

From the crack of dawn to late in the evening, bedtime and beyond, we are bombarded with unmelodious streams of information via smartphone, tablet, and laptop screen, and our poor brains are becoming fatigued. Be honest with yourself.

How many times in the last day alone have you started reading something interesting on the web - be it a news article, blog post, or slightly-too-personal Facebook update from a friend you don’t really like - managed a measly few paragraphs, and clicked onto something more interesting?

You’re not alone. Research by US magazine Slate found that users typically spent just fifteen seconds looking at an online article; around half of readers didn’t look far enough down the page to warrant scrolling; and, tellingly, of the few who remained awake past that point, 80% only consumed the rich content (that’s photos and videos) and overlooked the text. This is modern consumption: people want content short, simple, and loaded with moving pictures to coo at.

In certain sectors, this presents a conundrum. Cryptocurrency has taken the world by storm; not least in the Isle of Man, where it enjoys rapid growth alongside traditional industries, as well as the support of policymakers (see also: fintech, greentech, biomed, and various other portmanteaus so innovative that the words still generate a threatening red squiggle on my computer’s word processor). But as these new, highly technical industries flourish, how can businesses attract interest and investors if Joe Public doesn’t understand what is going on? There’s an extremely fine line between underselling your core message, and unpacking your operations in nuanced layman’s terms.

Dylan Healy knows that more than most. The 24-year-old marketing graduate, who grew up in Douglas, moved to Dublin a year ago to pursue an internship with a US digital agency. One thing he noticed were the economic similarities between home and the Irish capital, where cryptocurrency et al seem similarly poised to become serious rivals to the likes of eGaming and financial services.

The internship introduced him to a wide range of clients, many of whom shared concerns about bringing their products to a wider audience still unaware of the industry’s revolutionary potential. It also introduced him to business partner Aaron

REVIEW

Connolly. The pair saw a clear gap between what technology firms were selling, and how much of it their client bases grasped.

Animation seemed like a fitting solution: minimal, eye-catching, and tailored to the needs of the client. Animated video content can easily be shared and promoted on social media, and make a splash on website landing pages. That led to Healy and Connolly’s venture, Animation Explainers.

‘We bought the rights for the domain animationexplainers.com, and we were off from there’, explains Dylan. ‘We started spinning ideas during the evenings and at weekends, built the website and rang around potential clients in our spare time.

Before we knew it we were making contacts at the forefront of the cryptocurrency sector’. Being able to create the product using only a laptop, cloud sharing and video conferencing apps leant itself to a budget-friendly operation. But as business grew, so did the kit they had access to.

Dylan is no longer sheepish admitting early attempts saw them ‘recording all the voiceovers on an iPhone under a towel in his car seat’.

Still a two-man operation, they are now producing regular content for a handful of companies in Dublin and beyond, with particular interest in the minefield of blockchain, Bitcoin and Ethereum, which are becoming household names on and around Athol Street. It’s bringing formerly niche knowledge to the masses. But how do the duo, balancing their venture with full-time jobs, manage to stay ahead of the curve themselves? ‘It can be overwhelming’, Dylan admits, ‘You have to keep track of developments in Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and price fluctuations through as many news sources as you can. But it’s the craziness which drives us: the challenge of saying everything which needs to be said in 90 seconds or less’. But, he added, it isn’t as difficult as you might think: ‘as long as you have a good internet connection’.

Having now tasted success in Dublin, the entrepreneurs are hoping to expand their market. There has been recent interest from Taiwan and America, and Dylan dreams of bringing it back to Douglas.

The motivation remains the same: getting elaborate and often tricky concepts across without turning the modern reader, to whom time is precious, off. And if you’ve made it this far through this article, thank you for staying. You can go and read something else now.

Dylan Healy

Aaron Connolly

This is modern consumption: people want content short, simple, and loaded with moving pictures to coo at.

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relative values

Relative Values

42

Monica Dixie

Glenn Cassidy

Monica is Tax Director at Equiom Solutions. She joined the business in 2016 as a Senior Tax Consultant and was promoted to Tax Director in 2018. Monica’s main focus is on tax risk management for Equiom and its clients. She also delivers support in relation to international developments including the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), the Common Reporting Standard (CRS), Base Erosion and Profit Sharing (BEPS) and the more recent HM Revenue and Customs initiatives. She is a Chartered Accountant and a Chartered Tax Adviser.

Glenn Cassidy is a Senior Tax Consultant at Equiom Solutions.

He joined Equiom in 2013 following the acquisition of West Corporation Limited. With more than 20 years’ experience in accountancy and tax consultancy, Glenn advises non-resident landlords and private individuals on UK taxes relating to residential properties and advises clients regarding enquiries and investigations raised by HMRC and the Isle of Man Tax Division. Glenn is a Chartered Certified Accountant and a Chartered Tax Adviser.

agenda

ON THE AGENDA

Monica Dixie

Glenn Cassidy

Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil/ Paraguay

Favourite place in the world

The Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland

Purple

Favourite colour

Blue

Otter

Favourite animal

Horses on the Isle of Man horse trams as this is where you will find me with my 8 year old son most weekends

Chocolate, I grew up next to the Cadbury factory

Favourite smell

Freshly cut grass

With the family at the beach

Favourite way to spend a weekend

Having a relaxing meal and watching a movie with the family

Laxey, it has it all, sand and rocks for scrambling on

Favourite Isle of Man beach

Port Erin

Steak

Favourite food

Cheesecake

Why restrict it to one?!

Favourite ice cream flavour

Maud’s Pooh Bear, it’s a Northern Irish thing!

Pisco sour

Favourite drink

Ice cold bottle of Peroni

L’enclume in Cartmel

Favourite restaurant

A Café on Duke Street – the Chinese food is fantastic, and you will not find a friendlier welcome

Spending time with my family

Favourite pastime

Walking or watching movies

Netball, I hated it at school but took it up as an adult and loved it

Favourite sport

Cycling

A Few Good Men

Favourite film

Snatch, I think it’s a very funny and clever gangster film

Winnie the Pooh and also the House at Pooh Corner by A.A. Milne

Favourite book

Red Notice by Bill Browder

Seaside Rendezvous by Queen

Favourite song

Diesel Power by Prodigy

Any member of my family

Favourite person

Fortunately, I have many, but top of my list would be any member of my family

Michelin Star dinners, it is like theatre and food wrapped up together

Favourite things to splurge on

Watches

Watching snooker at the Crucible with my partner, Kevin

Favourite memory

The birth of my son

RELATIVE VALUES

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brand voice - masterpixel media

MASTERPIXEL MEDIA

The 2018 TT Races – when blistering sunshine paved the way for blistering on-track performances from the stars of the event.

There is no doubt that the fantastic weather helped to make this year’s races one of the most exciting ever with incredible performances from riders and teams throughout the week – not least for Connor Cummins and the Masterpixel Padgett’s Motorcycles Team.

This year saw Padgett’s join forces with title sponsors Masterpixel Media for a second time at the Isle of Man TT Races.

Photos by: Sam Games (Masterpixel Media), Tony Lloyd-Davies, Mark Falconer

Manx star Conor Cummins’ second in the Superbike and third in the Senior race meant that the Masterpixel Padgett’s Motorcycles team managed to achieve podium finishes in both Superbike races, making them the only team to do so this year. That in itself is an incredible indictment of the hard work the team puts in to its preparations for the iconic event.

Director of Masterpixel Media, Kit Nelson said: “I’ve worked with Clive Padgett and the team for a number of years now and I have always been impressed, not only by their professionalism and brilliant performances in racing, but also with

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ON THE AGENDA

how friendly and closely knit the team is. Padgett’s Motorcycles have proven themselves time and time again with multiple TT podium finishes, including Ian Hutchinson’s unprecedented five wins in a week in 2010. From a sponsor’s point of view they really are the perfect team to work with.”

In the 600 class, the Padgett’s bikes took the honours for being the fastest through both speed traps.

Conor Cummins stunned everyone by pulling out all the stops to achieve as many personal bests as was possible; recording PBs for standing start laps in each class, fastest ever lap in each class as well as overall race time for each class.

Lee Johnston on the 600 Supersport machine rode strongly to finish a hard fought 8th in race one and an even more impressive 7th in race two.

The welcome addition of Ian Hutchinson to the Supersport team, despite only having had the cage off his injured leg less than one month before the event, amazed everyone with a 16th place in the first Supersport race and a fantastic 11th in race two. Hutchy recorded a very impressive fastest lap of 124mph on the final lap. All things being equal, the signs are there for a proper return to form and great results for the Bingley Bullet at the 2019 event.

Sadly missed on the island this year was Bruce Anstey who is currently half way through his cancer treatment. The team received masses of well-wishes to pass on from fans, with everyone desperate to see the Flying Kiwi back in action.

Buoyed by their success at the TT, the team now move on to the Ulster GP, followed by a return to the Isle of Man for the Classic TT in August.

Masterpixel Media Following their high-profile sponsorship of Padgett’s Motorcycles in this year’s Isle of Man TT Races, Douglas-based Masterpixel Media are excited to be moving into a new era, with plans for business expansion over the coming months.

Masterpixel Media are a brand marketing company whose vision and approach to their work is more akin to a fully-integrated marketing department. The company specialises in creating and developing marketing messages and managing these

across various multimedia platforms.

The company’s extensive in-house skills allow clients to receive high-quality, inside out marketing solutions – from brand creation to sustained delivery of a marketing message which hits targets and delivers results.

Masterpixel’s versatile and experienced team boasts a wide variety of skills, including Creative Design, Web Design, PR, Social Media, Videography, Digital Marketing & SEO and Gaming. The latter of which will play an increasingly important part in the company’s future going forward.

To find out more about Masterpixel Media and how they can help your company, visit masterpixelmedia.com

BRAND VOICE

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opinion

When drinking at

work is a good thing New research proves ancient Persians right — alcohol can help us solve problems Words by: Pilita Clark (FT)

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ot that long ago I had lunch with a man from a big tech company and a woman in the magazine business who both said something remarkable when the waiter asked if we wanted to see the wine list: “Yes, please.�

It was so long since I had seen anyone drink anything more exciting than fizzy water at a work lunch that it took me a second to process the idea and another before I blurted out that, what the hell, I would have a glass too.

I strolled back to the office feeling rather pleased with myself, until I sat

ON THE AGENDA

down to write an email about an annoying PR man that I nearly fired off to the man himself by mistake.

Yet last week I came across some numbers that suggest there is something to be said for working when slightly drunk.

A US experiment reported in Harvard Business Review showed that when 20 young men drank enough vodka cranberry cocktails to push their blood alcohol levels close to the legal limit of 0.08, they solved a bunch of word puzzles better and faster than 20 other blokes who stayed sober.

The puzzles did not sound like anything I would ever deal with at work. (Think of a word that relates to “duck”, “dollar” and “fold”. Answer: “bill”.) But according to one of the researchers behind the test, Andrew Jarosz, the results backed up the idea that being mildly sloshed makes one more creative because it dulls the ability to focus.

The thought that there might be anything good to say about being tipsy at work sounded so at odds with the modern office that I phoned Mr Jarosz to see if he thought there were any jobs — including mine — that would benefit from more lunchtime negronis.

Sadly, he did not. “Every job to a degree requires focus,” he said. And although every job also has moments where losing that focus could be helpful, “most of the time you don’t want to be drinking at work”.

But is it possible that sobriety has gone too far? I have found myself wondering this when my boss invites a bigwig in for a boardroom lunch, where a glass of decent wine is almost always on offer. I can’t remember the last time I saw anyone touch it.

I can remember, vividly, accepting a glass myself at the first of these lunches I went to and watching with deepening alarm as every other person around the table politely refused and asked for water.

The situation was worse than I thought.

I have since seen a study showing that OPINION

“Every job to a degree requires focus”

people who simply hold an alcoholic drink in their hand are deemed less intelligent than those without one, a phenomenon the researchers called “imbibing idiot bias”.

Clearly they had not heard about Mr Jarosz and his vodka cranberries, let alone the fact that many of us started work in offices where drinking was routine. Nor had the colleagues under 30 I spoke to the other day to see what they made of the idea that quaffing in the office could have its pluses.

Eyes boggled. Mouths dropped open.

Everyone, male and female, thought the whole thing would make them feel “uncomfortable”, “awkward”, or just rubbish at their job.

I do not blame them, considering what can go wrong when one is squiffy, especially in Britain.

Not so long ago, a London trader on a bender after a weekend golf trip managed to send the price of oil to an eight-month high after buying 7m barrels of crude in the middle of the night. A few years later, a woman who had been drinking heavily stole a passenger ferry in Devon where a court later heard she had smashed into other vessels “like a pinball machine” as she made her escape shouting “I’m Jack Sparrow”.

None of this is good, obviously. Yet in the course of researching this article, I asked a well-read man what he made of 21st-century sobriety. He immediately said: “The Persians!”

It turns out the Greek historian Herodotus once wrote that when the ancient Persians had to make an important decision, they would make a choice when drunk and if it still seemed a good idea the next day when they were sober, they would go with it.

This would never work today, I know.

But can I be the only one who would be pleased to see it tried? agenda

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technology

N

ot many companies advise customers to use their most popular products less. Yet Craig Federighi, Apple’s head of software engineering, spoke in a hushed voice in California recently about how use of the iPhone had turned into “such a habit that we might not even recognise how distracted we’ve become”.

Even fewer of them suggest ways of taking a break when their market has run out of growth, as smartphone unit sales have done. Eleven years after the iPhone’s launch, global sales of the devices fell slightly in 2017 and IDC, the research group, expects another fall this year. It does not seem the ideal time to list the product’s evils.

Apple is not too worried. Any company that devotes so much of a two-hour presentation to playing with MeMoji cartoon avatars, demonstrating an app that mimics a two-way radio and showing an augmented reality Lego set cannot feel in existential danger. “You’re going to love those aerial screensavers!” Tim Cook, Apple’s chief executive, exclaimed to app developers.

It is evidence of the adage that we tend to overestimate the effects of any technology in the short run but underestimate them in the long run.

About 3.6bn people — half of the world’s population — now have access to the internet. Flat sales of smartphones are a sign not of malaise but of their speed of adoption.

Smartphones took just a decade to reach the top of the S curve — the classic

The iPhone is only just starting to grow up

Flat sales of smartphones mask a third industrial revolution yet to reach its peak Words by: John Gapper (FT)

diffusion pattern in which slow initial growth is followed by rapid take-up as word spreads and then a slowdown. But even when people are rushing out to buy the new technology, it is often too early to understand all of its potential: that realisation only comes after industries and societies adjust fully.

Continue...

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Go Sure.

Go better.

0

£

New phone plans No upfront charges to pay Upgrade your phone whenever you like

FA IR PHO N PLA E N DEA LS

upfront

iPhone X

42

£

per month FOR 24 MTHS*

Your bill automatically reduces when your phone is paid off

Then just add one of our new airtime plans Apple iPhone X 64GB

There’s a better way and that’s with Sure.

Our new mobile plans offer you a fairer deal, excellent customer service and the island’s fastest network†.

So what are you waiting for? *Airtime plan required in addition to phone plan. Terms and conditions apply, see www.sure.com. †Source: Systemics Group Q4 2017, The Isle of Man’s best network.

sure.com

technology

Continue

The era of widespread adoption — when the technology no longer attracts as much excitement, and attention turns to the next gadget (in this case watches, home speakers and drones) — is when things really start to happen. This was true of electricity and the rearrangement of 20th-century factories around multiple power outlets, rather than steam-driven shafts. The mobile phone has entered such a phase.

The clearest sign is the amount of attention people devote to their phones, as Mary Meeker, a partner at the venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, pointed out at the Code Conference in California. Her annual summary of internet trends is a ritual of Silicon Valley boosterism, but she displayed plenty of evidence that flat sales mask other forms of growth.

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“You’re going to love those aerial screensavers!”

Tim Cook Apple’s chief executive, exclaimed to app developers.

The average person now spends 3.3 hours per day with digital media on his or her mobile phone — 10 times the typical duration in 2008, when iPhones were the latest toys. Total usage, including time on desktops and other connected devices, now adds up to nearly six hours, which rivals time spent asleep. Forty five per cent of US teenagers reported in a recent Pew survey that they were online “almost constantly”.

Hence the launch of Apple’s Screen Time app to enable its users to control their iPhone addictions and also Mr Federighi’s happy air while announcing it — a little less time spent on Twitter and Instagram will not hurt his company. There will always be an Uber ride to be rated, a FaceTime group chat to join, a MeMoji to send to friends instead.

Apple’s playthings are now built on much more sophisticated technology than a few years ago. The company casually unveiled a set of tools to allow 20m software developers in 77 countries to exploit machine learning for image recognition in their apps — a nascent form of artificial intelligence when the first iPhone was launched by Steve Jobs.

Smartphones started out as minicomputers linked to narrowband wireless lines but now include a stack of technologies from high-speed broadband to global positioning, graphics chips and sensors. The device that has emerged at the top of the S curve is only distantly related to the original.

This has created an explosion, not only of apps but of industrial applications. They include the 20 per cent of Chinese retail sales that is accounted for by ecommerce, much of it mobile, to apps such as Waze, which combines mapping with drivers’ reports of traffic patterns. It creates what Ms Meeker calls “a lot of usage and a lot of usefulness” — as well as abuses.

Robert Gordon, the US economist, casts doubt on the impact of the computer and communications revolution compared with the “second industrial revolution” from 1870 to 1900, which included electricity, the combustion engine and piped water.

The computer revolution is notoriously hard to find in productivity statistics, as the economist Robert Solow once quipped.

Prof Gordon dates the climax of the computer revolution to the 1990s dotcom bubble, which ignores the smartphone altogether. I would not be so fast. Tech companies, which reached 33 per cent of the value of US publicly traded companies in the MSCI index in the bubble month of March 2000, are back up to 25 per cent, and Microsoft recently acquired GitHub, the online software service, for $7.5bn.

Apple played games with developers, but the technology it has invented has still to show its full impact. Do not switch off just yet.

ON THE AGENDA

Sunnymeade Court Quines Hill, Port Soderick - ÂŁ925,000

A handsome gated modern family home, providing spacious accommodation in a highly sought after area. This property is finished to a high specification and located in a quiet private enclave of properties of similar standing. This convenient and sought after Port Soderick address is only a five minute drive from Douglas Town Centre, yet still within easy reach of the airport and private schools.

T: 01624 623778 E: douglas@chrystals.co.im

This sumptuous home comprises an impressive double height reception hall, family living room with log burner, large dining room, study area, guest wc, dining kitchen with AGA, separate utility, large integral garage, family bathroom and 4 spacious bedrooms (some coastal views), all with en-suite bathrooms. Outside welltended gardens and patio surround with parking for 5 cars complete the property. n Situated in the private enclave of Sunnymeade n Attractive spacious family home extending to 4500sqft approx n Sought after location only five minutes drive to Douglas and 10 minutes to the Airport n Impressive double height reception hall n 2 large reception rooms and separate study n Dining kitchen with Aga n Utility room and Integral double garage n Well tended private gardens n Secure gated entry system

www.chrystals.co.im

UPFRONT HOME

FAIRHAVEN LUCERNE COURT, DOUGLAS

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.

PROPERTY INCLUDES: n Executive family home

n Located in a desirable development n 4 double bedrooms n Spacious entrance hall with gallery landing n Luxury modern fitted dining kitchen n Cinema room n Conservatory n Landscaped front and rear gardens

DANDARA Price £1.295m VIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Contact 615000 for details 54

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

COME HOME TO AWARD WINNING STYLE at Ballakilley, Port Erin

FINAL PHASE - LIMITED AVAILABILITY Last chance to purchase a superb 3 or 4 bedroom home at Ballakilley.

PRICES START FROM £296,950

SHOW HOMES OPEN Sat & Sun 11am - 4pm Visit dandara.com or call 615000 for full details

discover

Sales office: Victoria St, Douglas. Open 7 Days.

Specification may vary subject to house type and build stage. Full details available on request. Prices and details correct at time of going to print. Image shown is the Hazel show home at Ballakilley.

TRAVEL

Go… Green WORDS Rebecca Evans

‘Ecotourism, Sustainable Tourism, Green Tourism’. These are phrases that are thrown around a lot in these educated times we’re living in, but what do they actually mean? The Oxford English Dictionary defines sustainable tourism as ‘Tourism managed in a way which can be sustained in the long term and which preserves the integrity of the environment’ The travel industry is thought to account for around 5% of worldwide C02 emissions, much of it created by air and overland travel and the required supply chains. So it makes sense to try and offset some of the carbon footprint where we can. Most hotels now ask guests to reuse towels and turn off the

lights, but eco-friendly hotels and lodges across the world take this to higher levels; welcoming visitors to enjoy their local natural environments, whilst at the same time working hard to preserve them for future generations.

If the word ‘eco-lodge’ conjures up images of drafty tents, long-drop loos and cold showers, prepare to think again. I’ve researched some of the world’s most luxurious sustainable holiday accommodation, enough to turn you green (with envy).

Campi Ya Kanzi - Kenya

Campi Ya Kanzi is found on most lists of the best eco-lodges on earth; and rightly so. Founded in 1996 by an Italian safari enthusiast who had fallen in love with the area 20 years earlier, the camp is situated in the Chyulu hills of Southern Kenya, and surrounded by a 283,000 acre reserve.

The only lodge that sits within a Maasai reserve, Campi Ya Kanzi has through employment, and the distribution of conservation fees, forged unbreakable partnerships with the indigenous Maasai tribes. Where previously the local wildlife was seen as a threat to livestock and farming, the initiatives put in place by this camp have turned that on its head, highlighting the financial value of the tourists that come from all over the world to marvel at the breath taking landscape and big game - and who will continue to come if that environment is preserved.

Accommodation here is a selection of elegant tented cottages and suites, sustainably built by local hands and filled with locally created art. Most look over the nearby watering hole for the complete safari experience, and each features comfortable beds dressed in Italian linen, a full en-suite bathroom with hot & cold running water and totally organic products.

Running on 100% solar energy and completely carbon neutral, this is 5* luxury with a conscience. Accommodating just 16 guests, a total of 65 staff are on hand to offer a once in a lifetime experience, from private game drives to yoga lessons, horse-riding or hiking in the surrounding hills. www.maasai.com

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Misool Eco-Resort - Indonesia

Misool Eco-Resort, located in a remote part of Indonesia, is an exclusive dive resort like no other, with a story almost as spellbinding as the scenery. Hidden within an archipelago of otherwise uninhabited Islands, Misool boasts the richest reef in the world, thanks in no small part to a dedicated conservation effort by founders Andrew & Marit Miners. Having visited this spectacular isolated reef on their 3rd date (!) and discovering an abandoned shark finning camp and decimated fish stocks, they vowed to do what they could to protect the area from further harm.

Having been granted permission to lease the island and surrounding waters to build a conservation centre, a 3 year labour of love followed before Misool opened for business. A team of local rangers were employed to patrol the reserve for illegal fishing, and the decade since has seen a 250% increase in biomass, including 25 times more sharks and countless more manta rays.

The protected reserve has now grown to 300,000 acres (twice the size of Singapore) and offers visitors 60 unique dive sites to explore, each teeming with marine life.

Guests are just as well looked after as the Groupers, with elegant water cottages and villas carefully designed to blend in to the natural surroundings. All are constructed from reclaimed hardwoods, milled on-site, filled with hand-crafted furniture and fittings, and allow direct access from veranda to the lagoon and house reef. The nearest village is 20km away by boat, so all meals are provided and include sustainably line-caught fish, and home-grown produce.

Diving and snorkelling are obviously the main attractions here, however those who prefer to lay back in a hammock and enjoy the smug satisfaction of helping to save the world are more than welcome too. www.misool.info

“The protected reserve has now grown to 300,000 acres (twice the size of Singapore) and offers visitors 60 unique dive sites to explore, each teeming with marine life.”

Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge - Costa Rica Nestled in verdant rainforest and facing the calm waters of the Pacific Ocean Gulf of Nicoya, Playa Nicuesa is reachable only by boat, and arriving visitors would be forgiven for thinking they’ve been transported straight into paradise. The 165 acre reserve is largely undeveloped and teems with wildlife.

Awarded the highest rating for sustainability by the Costa Rica government’s Tourist Board, Playa Nicuesa makes environmental sensitivity their priority.

With 98% of staff sourced from the immediate local area, the lodge operates several community initiatives including sponsorship of local students and scout troops, support of campaigns to clean up and maintain local public areas, and bolstering the local economy through the purchase of goods and promotion of tours and activities. Operationally the green credentials continue, with solar energy providing electricity, all laundry being BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

dried naturally, and the use of natural pest controls and organic cleaning products.

The elegant accommodation here was constructed by local labour, and used recycled materials and naturally fallen or reclaimed hardwood wherever possible.

Guesthouses and cabins are designed to create as little impact as possible on the reserve they sit within, and each is oriented to maximise natural light and ventilation.

Each room has a private terrace with upclose rainforest views, is beautifully styled in ‘jungle-chic’ décor (their words, not mine) and most have an inviting outdoor shower with organic and biodegradable products.

Guests are encouraged to explore and enjoy the surrounding natural wonders, with guided rainforest hikes, kayaking or paddle boarding tours and open air yoga classes amongst the most popular picks. www.nicuesalodge.com

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FEATURE

The Isle of Man has had its fair share of festivals over the years, with many still going strong - Dark Horse, Mannifest, the Garden Party, Deep South and countless Manx music and cultural festivals, to name but a few. And the TT is arguably a music festival in its own right, having attracted huge names over the years, including Ray Davies, Meatloaf, Van Morrison and Lou Reed.

As we dive headlong into the summer months, when festival season really gets into full swing, Isle of Man-headquartered international life company RL360 decided to take a look at 10 of the most famous festivals held across the globe. #festivalseason

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TOP

MUSIC FESTIVALS AROUND THE WORLD 1

COACHELLA There are probably more celebrities at Coachella than members of the general public these days, such is the festival’s reputation for being ‘the place to be’.

After reaching the dizzying heights of Beyonce’s jaw-dropping headline set this year, can it be long before the Californian institution finds it impossible to outdo itself any further? There are 590,000plus music lovers who hope not. See you next April.

2

REDFEST DXB Chart-toppers like Rita Ora, Demi Lovato, Bastille and Iggy Azalea have played this festival which dominates Dubai for one weekend each year in February. But it’s not just music, there are interesting street food vendors and amazing art installations to keep revellers occupied between sets at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre.

3

AUSTIN CITY LIMITS While SXSW has arguably become better known worldwide over the years, Austin City Limits, or ACL as it’s better known in its Texan home town, has continued to grow. ACL runs over a couple of weekends in late September/ early October in the city’s Zilker Park, attracting a crowd of in the region of 450,000 and headliners like Bob Dylan, Radiohead and the Foo Fighters.

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ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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4

ROCK IN RIO If you’re looking for a glamorous festival, look no further than Rio de Janiero, Brazil. It’s held in September every second year and attracts a massive 700,000 people. Made particularly famous by Iron Maiden’s live album Rock in Rio – see the seminal “Scream for me Rio!” moment – the festival’s glittering list of alumni include Queen, Elton John, Guns n’Roses and Metallica

6

MAWAZINE Around 2.65 million Africans show the world how to party at Morocco’s Mawazine Festival. Held in Rabat in May each year, it began as a celebration of Moroccan culture and arts, before morphing more into a tribute to African music. These days, big names in African music such as Amadou and Mariam share the limelight with other international acts such as Christina Aguilera and Justin Timberlake.

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5

GLASTONBURY It’s a British institution. This 5-day musical extravaganza has been going for an amazing 47 years now and shows no sign of dipping in popularity. Festival goers buy their tickets months before they know who’ll be headlining, whinge that it’s all too commercial when the acts are announced and then spend days revelling in the mud/ scorching sunshine having the time of their lives. Tickets are a whopping £228 but in the region of 135,000 people part with that so they can spend a few glorious days at Worthy Farm. Festival director Michael Eavis is almost more famous than the acts these days.

DONAUINSELFEST The key to the huge numbers (around 3 million) attending this annual festival is the fact it is free. Plus it is held in Vienna - on an island in the middle of the Danube River – a city which nurtured the talent of Mozart and is steeped in stunning musical history. Donauinselfest is the biggest festival in the world. Perhaps it’s without the easily recognisable names of the other inclusions on this list but that doesn’t necessarily indicate a difference in the quality of the music on offer.

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WOODSTOCK (POLAND) Not the famous one from the sixties with Bob Dylan and all the stoned naked people with hippy hair who grew up to be accountants. No, while Woodstock (Poland) is named after the 1969 version and does feature a little folk music, the line-up is largely rock, pop and metal.

Headliners such as the Prodigy play to more than 1 million people in August each year in Kostrzyn nad Odra. Incidentally, Prodigy frontman Keith Flint, can usually be found at the IoM TT each year with his own motorcycle racing team.

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SZIGET Sziget is held in Budapest, Hungary, and has its roots in political upheaval and student unrest. Things are a little different today, however, as nearly half a million people gather together to enjoy music from pop acts like Muse, Sia, Rhianna and Sigur Ros. It lasts a week and attracts festival goers from across Western Europe and around the world, as well as the locals.

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GOOD VIBES FESTIVA This month’s Good Vibes Festival in Gohtong Jaya, Malaysia, will welcome headliners Lorde and alt-J to its modern resort setting, built in the scenic hills above Kuala Lumpur. The festival is the biggest held anywhere in the region and sees international acts mix with Malaysian musicians on the eclectic bill.

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BEAUTY

THE LAZY GIRL’S GUIDE TO SUN PROTECTION Use these suncare short-cuts and quick tricks to take the stress out of SPF...

1. ALL-DAY FORMULAS Sun creams that promise all-day protection can be very effective - but only if you apply them correctly.

“Do it first thing, do it indoors and apply plenty,” says Abi Cleeve, MD of Ultrasun, who points out that applying sunscreen when you’re already in the sun increases evaporation, thereby reducing protection.

n Garnier Ambre Solaire UV Water Clear Sun Cream Spray SPF 30, £8, Boots n Dior Bronze Beautifying Protective Milky Mist Sublime Glow SPF 30, £29.50 3. MAKE-UP MIXES Skip one step in your morning routine by choosing a foundation or BB cream that has in-built high-factor protection.

Bioderma’s new factor 50 Aquafluid comes in two skinenhancing varieties, while BareMinerals’ much-loved Complexion Rescue with SPF 30 is available in 16 shades.

“Put it on at least 15 minutes before you go out and look for easy-to-miss bits around shoulder straps and your clothing. Get a good coverage and let it sink in.”

n Bioderma Photoderm MAX Tinted Aquafluid Golden SPF 50+, £13.20, FeelUnique

n Ultrasun Sports Transparent Sun Protection Spray SPF 30, £24.99, John Lewis

n BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream SPF 30, £28

n Riemann P20 Continuous Spray SPF 30, £19.99, Boots

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2. SPF SPRAYS Say goodbye to chalky creams and hello to see-through sprays that make application a doddle.

Just be sure to give the bottle a very thorough shake before you spritz, to ensure the SPF ingredients are dispersed throughout the liquid.

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4. WATERPROOF WONDERS Water-resistant sunscreen isn’t only needed by the pool or seaside, sunbathers - sweat can hamper the efficacy of your SPF. So if, for example, you’re a regular runner in summer, you need to be properly protected.

Shiseido has just revamped its suncare collection, so that all products use its clever WetForce Technology to form a waterrepellent barrier when your skin comes into contact with moisture. n Shiseido WetForce Expert Sun Aging Protection Lotion Plus SPF 50+, £33, Escentual

5. SKINCARE SOLUTIONS If you’re a beauty buff who wants ultraeffective skincare alongside SPF, the latest face-only sunscreens will certainly float your boat.

With anti-ageing, acne and pollutionfighting formulas, these day creams really mean business.

n Eucerin Sun Oil Control Face Protection SPF 50, £12, Boots

6. TAN-TASTIC New from cult Aussie tanning brand Bondi Sands, Protect & Tan Oil is a world-first that combines factor 15 protection with DHA, meaning colour develops while you’re catching rays. That way, you can claim that your bronzed glow is purely the result of the sun. We won’t tell anyone...

n Filorga UV Bronze Face Anti-Ageing Sun Fluid SPF 50, £25, FeelUnique

n Bondi Sands Protect & Tan Oil SPF 15, £14.99, Boots

n Ultrasun Daily Face Fluid SPF 50+, £28, John Lewis

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EYE CARE

The Grandstand to the bottom of Bray Hill, 0 - 180 MPH in a matter of seconds. TT riders need the clearest all round vision at all times.

When did you last pop into the optician’s for a check-up? We may be conditioned to visit our dentist every six months but rarely do we grant our eyes the same courtesy. Research from the College of Optometrists, which recommends everyone have an eye examination every two years unless otherwise advised, suggests that a quarter of adults have gone for more than two years without having their eyes tested and 18 per cent of that figure have left it more than three years.

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The Care You Deserve Holmes and Davidson Opticians have been trusted for sight tests in Douglas, on the Isle of Man for the last 100 years. They offer NHS sight tests and other specialised examinations. Holmes and Davidson Opticians are dedicated to looking after your eye health and giving you the clearest vision at all distances.

Glasses And Sunglasses

EXPERT ADVICE You deserve to wear glasses and sunglasses that both look and feel great. That’s why the dedicated Dispensing Opticians will offer you the best advice on which frames are most suitable for your face shape and prescription. They will listen carefully to your visual needs and advise you on the lenses that will give you the clearest all round vision.

Holmes and Davidson stock the latest frames from Ray-Ban, Oakley, Lindberg, Armani, Polo, Chanel, Tiffany, Versace, Bvlgari, Murano, Jaeger, Starck and many more.

Express Same Day Glasses

STATE OF THE ART LENS LAB Whether you have just broken your glasses or just can’t wait to have your new ones, at Holmes and Davidson Opticians they have just installed a new on-site lens lab which allows many single vision prescription glasses to be made with high precision and finish on the same day. Subject to lens availability.

Contact Lens Fitting And Aftercare

TAKING CARE OF YOU The Contact Lens Specialists at Holmes and Davidson will select for you the most appropriate contact lenses for your specific visual needs. You will be treated as an individual as every patient has different needs and requirements. Trusted by the Eye Specialists at Nobles to fit all types of specialist contact lenses, you can be assured they have the expertise and experience to ensure you receive the very best care.

2-4-1 from £59

Choose any 2 pairs of £59 complete glasses and pay for only one of them. You can also take advantage of £59 off any second pair of glasses on the same day. Why not treat yourself to some new Ray-Ban glasses to wear every day and £59 off some Ray-Ban prescription sunglasses for the summer.

Value, Choice & Service - the Isle of Man’s Premier Opticians in Douglas, bringing you Expert Eye Care and the latest designer glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses. Single Vision glasses are available from only £25.

Holmes and Davidson promise you low prices and expert eye care every day.

Book Your Eye Test Today HOLMES AND DAVIDSON OPTICIANS 45 Strand Street, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 2EJ T: 01624 676230 E: info@holmesanddavidsonopticians.co.uk W: www.holmesanddavidsonopticians.co.uk F: www.facebook.com/ HolmesAndDavidsonOpticians/ BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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APPETITE

Recipes LEMON CHICKEN TRAY BAKE WITH SWEET POTATOES An easy dish you just whack in the oven.

SMOKY ZAALOUK

We all need recipes like this sometimes, when just thinking about what to cook and how to cook it feels like a gigantic effort; it happens to the best of us. On those occasions, a one-bowl/onepan approach is the answer the kind where you just throw ingredients together and voila, there’s a delicious meal that you can proudly take credit for.

This tasty dip is the kind you can slather on almost anything.

This is one of the most iconic Moroccan salads, and every region and every family has its own way of cooking it. Some like it with lots of tomato, some creamy, spicy and smoky while others prefer it very chunky and herby.

Serve it with grilled meat or fish, or as a spread in a sandwich.

Ingredients: (Serves 4) n 4tbsp olive oil n 2 large aubergines, peeled and chopped into 3cm chunks n 4 tomatoes, deseeded and chopped into 3cm chunks n 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed n 2tbsp chopped fresh coriander, plus extra leaves to garnish n 1tbsp lemon juice n 1/2tbsp clear honey n 1tsp smoked paprika n 3/4tsp salt, or more to taste n 1/2tsp ground cumin n 1/2tsp paprika n 1/8tsp cayenne pepper, or more to taste (optional) Method: 1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan and add all the ingredients. Cover the pan and cook over a medium-low heat for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are soft, stirring occasionally to make sure they don’t stick to the base of the pan.

2. Uncover the pan and crush the vegetables with a potato masher, then leave to cook for about five minutes over a medium heat, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid has evaporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding salt if necessary.

3. Serve warm or cold, garnished with a sprinkling of coriander, as a side, dip or spread on khobz.

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Ingredients: (Serves 4) n 2 onions, sliced n 8 garlic cloves, peeled but left whole n 4 large chicken legs n 1 large sweet potato, cut into large chunks n 300g cauliflower florets n 2 lemons, sliced For the marinade: n 200ml vegetable stock n Finely grated zest of 3 lemons n 3tbsp lemon juice n 3 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed n 3tbsp harissa, plus extra to serve n 2tbsp olive oil n 2tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander n 1/4tsp salt, or more to taste

Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan), Gas Mark 6.

2. Mix all the marinade ingredients together in a bowl.

3. Spread the onions out in a deep roasting tin and scatter the garlic cloves all over. Place the chicken legs, skin-side up, on top with the sweet potato chunks and cauliflower florets.

Pour over the marinade and turn the chicken legs several times to ensure that they are fully coated with the marinade.

Top the whole dish with the lemon slices.

4. Bake for about one hour or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Serve the chicken and vegetables immediately with extra harissa.

Recipes from Casablanca: My Moroccan Food by Nargisse Benkabbou

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WORDS | Anne Berry | The Wine Cellar

suggests the organic offering will continue to increase.

From Sicily the Tenute della Terre Nere Etna Rosso (£17.45) wine is made from very fine Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio grapes grown on the volcanic soils of Mount Etna.

Italy, Spain and France are the largest producers accounting for 79% of all organic wine production, with 9% of French vineyards already using organic practices.

Sales there have seen a growth of 20% over the last 7 years. In the UK, organic wine represents around 5% of the wine market by volume, but this is expected in increase by 15% in the next few years.

Even young it is a distinguished wine. Fresh and fragrant with a fine grip, it has a natural polish, a stage presence, as it were.

It is an aristocratically liberal wine with great character. Italy’s answer to red Burgundy?!

Muga in Rioja is a traditional and long established family run operation and the wines are all produced using organic methods. They have their own cooperage, ensuring the quality of the oak barrels is maintained and they use all natural processes wherever possible.

Finally from France, the Mas Barrau Cabernet Franc at just £9.45 demonstrates that organic can be great value for money too. Textured and luxurious this is a sophisticated Cabernet Franc from Gard. There is a wild ‘after the rain’ woodland perfume.

The palate is incredibly long and very rich with fleshy fruit flavours counterbalanced by a bitter, woody, character and a thread of honey. This is the perfect match to juicy lamb shanks, rich tomato based dishes laced with roasted garlic and pepper, marinated steak with mashed potato and green beans or savour it at the end of the meal over a good cheeseboard.

THE GLOBAL ORGANIC WINE INDUSTRY HAS WITNESSED SIGNIFICANT EXPANSION OVER THE LAST DECADE AND IT IS SHOWING NO SIGN OF SLOWING DOWN. AS CONSUMERS AROUND THE WORLD BECOME EVERMORE HEALTH CONSCIOUS AND ENVIRONMENTALLY AWARE, DEMAND FOR ORGANIC WINE HAS SOARED. The growing interest in organic wines is similarly giving wine retailers added incentive to boost their organic offering, and for producers to focus on traditional growing and production methods rather than on chemical advances. Growers focus on producing a healthy, more selfsufficient vine, which is able to withstand pests and feed itself naturally, rather than on protecting the vine from anything that might harm it. This entails developing a healthy soil and a balanced ecosystem within the vineyard. It also means more intensive labour, since grapes in many organic vineyards are handpicked, minimising stress and damage to the vine, soil and fruit.

Organic wine is produced without the use of artificial chemicals such as fertilisers, herbicides, pesticides and fungicides. It has to be produced according to the EC Regulation 203/2012, which states that is it produced from organic grapes and, in the cellar, it is produced using only products and processes authorised by the Regulation. Until Regulation 203/2012 was introduced in February 2012, there were no EU rules or definition of organic wine and the only wording “wine produced from organic grapes” was permitted.

New EU rules have identified winemaking techniques and substances to be authorised for organic wine including a reduced maximum sulphite content. Many believe that this gives a reduced hangover too!

It takes three years and four vintages to convert to organic and, with the number of vineyards currently in conversion, this

£18.95

£11.45

£12.25

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

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APPETITE

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‘’So then we thought about catering”, says Kylie. “We wanted to do something simple, based around one food. We hit on the idea of making pizzas in a wood-fired oven.

There was something primitive about cooking with fire that sparked excitement in both of us, so we did some research and decided that this was definitely the route we wanted to go down. We also knew from the start that using local produce was going to be an integral part of our business”.

Tom is a builder by trade, while Kylie is (still) an accountant with Pokerstars.

Neither had any experience in mobile catering – or creating artisan pizzas, from scratch, come to that – but what they both shared was drive and enthusiasm in spades. “We were always saying ‘we’re so busy and never have time to relax’”, laughs Kylie, “but whenever things calmed down, we always seemed to find something else to do”. “I definitely thrive off doing new, interesting things”, agrees Tom.

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n their choice of name alone, Kylie Rollins and Tom Rowe displayed the killer combination of flair and savvy that has been instrumental in the rapid rise of their business.

In the beginning, the name aroused curiosity. What was – or who were – The Secret Pizza Company? It sounded like a mystery you wanted to solve, particularly if pizza was the reward. It wasn’t long before Tom and Kylie’s secret was out, and now, with the immense popularity of their Castletown restaurant, the name has a delicious irony.

Kylie continues, “Both our dads and Tom’s stepdad run their own businesses, so that’s the spirit we’ve grown up with: if you want to do something, you’ve got to make it happen yourself. When I was studying for my accountancy exams, I was so stressed, but I got through it, and that made me think: what else can I achieve, if I really put my heart and soul into it?

The success of The Secret Pizza Company is a tale with nothing but good ingredients: a determined, hardworking partnership; an historic, quirky building waiting for a new lease of life; an openminded local authority; a hungry public; and a supportive local bank.

But the story really begins with a van.

“It was an impulse purchase on eBay”, Tom explains. “A Daihatsu Hijet van in Liverpool. With literally just a minute to go, I sent a screenshot to Kylie and she said ‘go for it!’. We went across on the boat that weekend to collect it”. The couple’s initial idea was to run a mobile bar but they found that the Isle of Man’s licensing laws were not conducive to getting this plan off the ground.

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

“When we decided to do Secret Pizza, we had no long-term plan. But then we spent all our spare time going to events and met so many amazing people in catering – people like us, who started with an idea they believed in – and that made us realise that, yes, we want to go for this and make a success of it. And what I’ve discovered is, the more you do things, if you’re willing to put in the effort to make people happy, they say ‘yes’ a lot! And so the more you realise is possible. It snowballs”.

CONTINUE...

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APPETITE

CONTINUE...

So, in the space of a couple of years, how did this can-do couple go from a second-hand van to a micro restaurant in the historic centre of Castletown? Tom explains: “We met with Ian and Mary Beth from Foraging Vintners for a coffee, and the topic of these premises on Barracks Square came up. The building – which in past lives was a munitions store, and a mortuary - was too small for them but we thought it might work for us. Castletown Commissioners, who were at that time using the building as a bin store, were asking for expressions of interest, so we put in a proposal”.

This was in January 2017, at which point, notes Tom, Secret Pizza had only done one event with their van: the Castletown Christmas lights switch-on. “Yes, we’d made pizza for the public once, and decided we were ready to open a restaurant!”.

Within the space of just a few more events, Secret Pizza had outgrown the little ‘prep kitchen’ in a rented industrial unit in Port St Mary, and were ready to put down roots.

This is where Conister Bank comes into the story. Kylie says, “We’d had finance from Conister before, and had a really positive experience. When you approach other banks, you have to meet so many criteria and have a certain amount of capital before you can even have a discussion.

“With Conister, it was different. We went in with our business plan and just started chatting”. Tom picks up the thread: “You can go in and speak directly with the people who make the decisions. Conister are interested, they care. They’ve been down several times since we set up just to see how it’s going. They want to see local business succeed and grow because they know it’s not just good for us; it’s good for the town, and for the health of the community”.

With all systems go, the couple brought in architect Andrew Bentley to help them realise their vision for The Secret Pizza Company’s fledgling restaurant, and – once the location of the all-important oven had been decided – everything began to fall into place.

Fast forward to a fine Spring evening, and Barracks Square is alive with convivial sounds as people eat, drink and mingle.

“We always wanted to create a relaxed, social atmosphere. That’s why we put in communal seating and don’t take reservations,” says Tom. “And it’s working: customers are popping by and chatting to people they’ve never met or haven’t seen for a long time”. Kylie adds: “We want people to feel like they can while away time here. We’ve put in patio heaters, and provide blankets for people to snuggle under on cooler nights”.

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“We also knew from the start that using local produce was going to be an integral part of our business”. here”, says Tom. “I came over to see him and never left; I just settled into the Manx way of life”.

Ten years later, and Tom and Kylie are both making a positive contribution to that Manx way of life. And for all their freewheeling spirit, the pair have clearly worked incredibly hard to make a success of The Secret Pizza Company. Sympathetic backing from Castletown Commissioners has proved invaluable along the way (Town Clerk Hugo Mackenzie, says Tom, “wants to see the town busy, and that makes all the difference”). And both Tom and Kylie are in total agreement that “we couldn’t have done it without Conister Bank, and we couldn’t have asked for better or more consistent support”.

While Kylie and Tom haven’t set their next steps in stone, they are keen to develop a takeaway and delivery service during the winter, and would like to carry on catering at events. “People inspire us”, says Kylie.

“One time, we put on a little festival with bands and camping, and it was so much fun. We thrive on that kind of energy”. Tom continues: “We also like doing things on a whim, and don’t like to plan too much because it can make things stale. I’d say we both work best under pressure…”. “And when it all comes together, it’s amazing!” finishes Kylie.

Tom and Kylie first met in The Sidings pub in Castletown, where Kylie was a barperson and Tom, a regular customer. While Kylie grew up in the Isle of Man, Tom moved here roughly ten years ago from Lichfield in Staffordshire. “My dad was already living BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Tom believes that The Secret Pizza Company is part of an “entrepreneurial revolution” which has been steadily gathering pace in the Isle of Man over the last couple of years: a virtuous circle of youthful, creative people inspired by the example of likeminded spirits, and inspiring others in their turn. Tom and Kylie are excited to have created a buzz on Barracks Square which they feel is “spreading through the town, bringing a bit of life back to the centre”, and they hope that their success story gives others the confidence to forge ahead with their business idea. As Kylie puts it, “Once you start asking questions, knocking on doors and making things happen, you realise that all the barriers you’d put in the way are imaginary”. www.facebook.com/secretpizzaco/ Credits: Dario Leonetti & Bloom Creative

BELIEVING IN LOCAL BUSINESS

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SPORT

THE MANX RAMS

Manx history was made last month. The Isle of Man sent their first ever national netball squad to compete on the INF (International Netball Federation) stage at the Netball Europe Open Challenge in Gibraltar. To get the Island’s first ever world ranking eight international matches must be played. This was the starting step. And standing in our way were UAE (United Arab Emirates), the Republic of Ireland, Gibraltar and Israel. We were the babies of the competition. The underdogs.

The newbs. We had nothing to lose. The tournament took place over five days.

Our first game saw us beat UAE, 57-47. The second was against the Rep. of Ireland, ranked 19th in the world, who we lost to by one, 43-42. The defeat felt heavy for everyone. Silver lining, the post-match tears helped warm the ice baths. Day three was mentally and physically tiring and saw us get beat by tournament hosts Gibraltar, 43-42. Same score as Ireland. I know, weird right? The fourth and final day was topped off with a resounding win over Israel 80-20.

We learned a lot over those five days.

Instance; just because the hotel provides a buffet breakfast, that doesn’t mean you have to eat a full English before playing.

Trying to justify it as ‘extra energy’ doesn’t work. You’ll feel sick when you’re doing

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Words by: Rhi Evans Photos by: Neil Wilson (Gibraltar)

high knee’s in the warm up. Predominantly, we learned what we, as a squad, are capable of and the amount of support behind us.

Netball is the largest, female, participation sport on the Isle of Man. We are merely the tip of the iceberg of the 669 members of Manx Netball. An incredible amount of skill and commitment lie in our other squads who helped us prepare for the tournament. Particularly our U17’s who are training fiercely in preparation for their first international tournament in Dublin this October.

By the end of the tournament we were silver medallists. An achievement made even more impressive by the fact that not one player from the Isle of Man squad has performed as a professional athlete before.

Five of our players are Mother’s, nine are in full time employment and three are students. We fly back from university to come to training and fit in sessions around children and careers, using holiday days to compete away and paying our own way there due to limited funding. Our silver in Netball Europe’s Open Challenge is a sign of things to come. We have trail blazed the Isle of Man onto the international netball map and it has not gone unnoticed by competing countries. All thanks to the wisdom of Pip Cross, coaching of Claire Battye and Rob McKee and the organisation of Deborah Evans and Marg McGee. I couldn’t have been prouder to compete alongside each and every one of these ladies, coaches and managers. A squad of incredible passion, dignity, talent, heart and commitment and a team who shows nothing but support and respect for one another on court at all times. Misty Copeland said to ‘Start Unknown. Finish Unforgettable.’ Words we have played by and intend to continue to do so. Watch this space. www.netball.im BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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SPORT

ST GEORGE’S AFC CELEBRATE St George’s AFC were celebrating another season at the top of the Isle of Man Premier League as they held their annual gala dinner and prize presentation at the Empress Hotel.

As well as clinching an astonishing 13th Premier League title in 15 years, Geordies also added the Hospital Cup to their trophy cabinet this season.

The season was the first under the sponsorship of Task UK who are extremely proud of the Douglas side’s performance.

Task UK Director Charlotte Rea said: “St George’s are one of the most successful teams in Manx football history and their strength has again been apparent with another brilliant performance this season. Task UK are excited to continue

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our support and we wish St George’s ongoing success for the future.”

The coming season marks St George’s 100th year and it’s hoped it will be a special one as the club enters a new era, with a complete change in the coaching set up.

The Awards First Team: Players’ Player of the Year - Furo Davies, Most Improved - Joel Ibanez, Top Scorer - Ciaran McNulty, Manager’s Player of the Year Joe Quayle Combination Team: Most Improved - Dylan Wood, Top Scorer - Tom Chatel, Manager’s Player of the Year - David Cherry, Players’ Player of the Year - Carl Henson Under 21 Player of the Year Joe Quayle

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HARDWARE

2011 Aston Martin One-77 Q-Series

So named as there were only 77 examples built, this Aston is even rarer than most – one of only seven Q-Series One-77s. With an auction estimate of £1.65m, the auction listing notes that this example of ‘the world’s most desirable automotive art form’ presents in as-new condition.

GOODWOOD’S FESTIVAL OF SPEED SALE

Modern supercars and rare beauties among those going under the hammer on July 13

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is an iconic event in the motoring calendar, full of high-octane thrills, as a massive variety of incredible cars grace the lawns and hill-climb course of the Goodwood estate in Sussex.

But away from the hubbub of revving engines and smartly-dressed champagne quaffers sits the Bonhams tent – site of the auction house’s Festival of Speed sale.

Some truly spectacular cars are set to go under the hammer this year – we’ve rounded up a few of the most exciting…

1932-34 Alfa Romeo Tipo B Grand Prix Monoposto

This Grand Prix racer won the 1935 Donington Grand Prix and is noted as ‘one of the most important designs in racing history’. Formerly owned by Scuderia Ferrari and Richard Shuttleworth, it has a fully documented racing history and is estimated to sell for a staggering £4.5 million.

2014 Land Rover Defender SVX ‘Spectre’

Another slightly more modern piece of Bond history is this Land Rover Defender, having featured in 2015’s Spectre. It’s one of 10 built for the film, extensively modified by the manufacturer to be the ultimate in off-road dominance. It’s estimated to hit £220,000 when it goes under the hammer.

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1953 Mercedes-Benz 300 Cabriolet

There’s nothing quite like a convertible Mercedes, is there? This 1953 example is a gorgeous old thing, one of very few righthand drive examples and benefitting from a professional restoration. It’s estimated to reach £220,000.

1955 Austin-Healy 100S Sports Racing

As-yet unregistered in the UK, this is one of only 50 original competition Austin-Healy 100S’. It’s a successful club racer that’s bound to be popular in numerous historic racing circles – and a comparative bargain with an auction estimate of £580,000.

1965 Aston Martin DB5

Want to own a slice of James Bond history?

An estimated £1.2m could buy you this genuine ex-Goldeneye car – driven by Pierce Brosnan in the hit movie. The listing calls it ‘the most valuable piece of Bond memorabilia ever sold’ – and it’s certainly one of the most iconic.

1957 BMW 507 Roadster

Possibly one of the most beautiful BMWs ever built, this example brings back memories of 2016 – when BMW celebrated its centenary year at the FoS. This John Surtees-owned example presents in immaculate condition and is expected to fetch in excess of £2 million.

2012 Bugatti Veyron Super Sport

The last Bugatti Veyron SS ever built, this is a stunning example of one of the world’s most famous cars. It’s finished in black on black with a red interior, has covered just 340 miles from new and is estimated at £1.7m.

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HARDWARE

GADGETS ■ UNBEATABLE VALUE IN A SMARTPHONE In the world of smartphones, we all tend to focus on the high-end devices pushing at the forefront of technology but the Samsung Galaxy J3 reminds us that you don’t have to spend big to have a great phone in your pocket.

When it comes to finding a phone on a budget, the Samsung Galaxy J3 really does lead the way. The 5 inch Super AMOLED screen gives you an incredible depth of colour and a vivid viewing experience that you’ll find hard to beat among its peers.

The screen is ideal for displaying images and HD video captured with the phone’s 8MP camera and because it’s driven by a 1.5GHz quad-core processor, it has the power you need to watch videos, play your favourite games or simply keep in touch with your friends via your favourite social platforms.

Weighing just 138 grams and designed with high-end style in mind, the Samsung Galaxy J3 looks and feels incredible, whether you’re using it for business or pleasure.

To find out more about the Samsung Galaxy J3, simply head to the Sure store today!

■ FITBIT IONIC When it comes to reaching your fitness goals, steps are just the beginning. Fitbit tracks every part of your day—including activity, exercise, food, weight and sleep—to help you stay motivated and see how small steps make a big impact.

Designed for your life, with new dynamic personal coaching, the Ionic delivers custom workout curriculums, wellness programs, content, and other tools that are driven by your data and tailored to your specific goals Incorporating industry-leading GPS and multi-sport modes, the Ionic lets you track specific workouts like weights, runs and rides. In Bike, Run or Hike mode, use built-in GPS to see pace, distance and other key stats on display. When you’ve finished, you’ll get a complete performance summary that shows elevation climbed, split times and a map of your route.

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What’s more is that the Ionic is waterresistant and has enhanced swimtracking capabilities, allowing you to record your laps, stroke style and calories burned. And if you forget to record it, SmartTrack will have your back by tracking swims for you.

With a multi-day battery, the Ionic battery life can last up to an impressive five days, allowing you to track your morning, night and everything in between.

Available from Manx Telecom for £279.99 or £14 per month with any new or renewed mobile or broadband contract. Or take advantage of a Manx Telecom exclusive take-away bundle which includes a Fitbit Ionic and a pair of Powerbeats 3 wireless earphones for just £23 per month.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

HARDWARE

GROW GROW GADGETS

■ HOZELOCK CLOUD CONTROLLER How many times have you seen a garden sprinkler happily gushing away, in the middle of a downpour? It’s a complete waste of water and electricity. There are plenty of sprinkler systems that can be timed to operate automatically throughout the day, but these don’t take into account weather conditions, and unless you’re standing there to turn them off manually, they just carry on regardless.

The Hozelock cloud controller offers a more intelligent watering set-

up. The supplied tap unit wirelessly connects to the partner app on your IOS or Android phone through the supplied hub, creating a secure system with no pairing required. The app then allows you to remotely control watering schedules, no matter where you are.

At work and the heavens open? Cancel the early evening watering with one tap. On holiday and notice the temperature in Jersey has ramped up to 30 degrees (just your luck!); simply up the water volume by 50% to combat parched peas or

shrivelled spinach.

The app also links to a weather service, and offers push notifications alerting you to a change in predicted weather patterns. All you need to think about is what to pick for dinner.

The Hozelock Cloud Controller is £114.99 from www.argos.co.uk

■ CLICK & GROW SMART GARDEN 9

Don’t have a garden or balcony but would still like to grow some healthy greens?

The Smart Garden 9 is small enough to sit on a windowsill or kitchen counter, but can produce an impressive amount of edible fayre, including (but not limited to) mini tomatoes, wild strawberries, lettuce, chillies and a whole smorgasbord of herbs.

To say this is space age gardening is not too far from the truth; the supplied ‘smart soil’ is inspired by NASA technology and the garden has built in sensors to monitor oxygen, water and nutrients, along with LED grow lights to encourage quick germination and speedy growth. It doesn’t sound too organic does it?

But with no pesticides or BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

harmful chemicals involved, everything produced is completely natural.

The Smart Garden 9 runs on mains electricity and features 9 growing areas,

coming complete with smart soil, adjustable grow lamp and enough basil, mini tomato and green lettuce seeds to get you started. Simply fill the water tank, plug in the plant capsules, switch on the power

and walk away. No watching or watering is required, this is zero effort cultivation.

The Smart Garden 9 is £199 from www. conranshop.co.uk.

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PAPP’D AT THE COURTHOUSE

from £16 per month*

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from £9 per month*

32GB

£16

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HomePod

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

from £

per mont

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ARE YOU IN? /GALLERYIOM

from £46 per month*

from £60 per month*

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call 624 624 see in-store visit manxtelecom.com/summer

*terms & conditions apply, see www.manxtelecom.com/summer

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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PAPP’D AT THE COURTHOUSE

g n i m a o r U E & UK

e v i s u l c in a r t x e 0 from £

*

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ISLE GUERNSEY’S OF MAN PREMIER STYLE MAGAZINE

NIGHTLIFE

ARE YOU IN? /GALLERYIOM

day… o t f f i r a t roam t r a m s a move to /roaming m ap @ mt.i w † s s r e m .

3 6 6 6 MT custo 16 o t ARTROAM M S t x e t r o y! £££ toda E V A S d n Switch a

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to receive calls in the UK & EU save up to £20 per trip & keep your inclusive minutes vs Sure**

call 624 624 see in-store visit manxtelecom.com/summer

* UK and EU roaming allowances available on all smartroam tariffs. See manxtelecom.com/roaming for details. † Terms & conditions apply. ** Saving based on MT Smartroam 50GB vs Sure Smart Large. Saving based on 200 roaming minutes.

MT does not decrement your inclusive roaming minutes allowance when you receive a call in Zones 1 & 2.

See www.mt.im/termsandconditions

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

PAPP’D AT JAKS BAR

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ARE YOU IN? /GALLERYIOM

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Save regularly to reach your life moments For details of our range of 6, 9 and 12 month Fixed Term savings accounts, talk to us today.

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

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