June/July 2021 the NEW issue by Gallery Magazine

Isle of Man Premier Magazine | no. 98 | Summer 2021 | the [NEW] issue

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FEATURING

CONISTER BANK’S

CLARA ISAAC, WHO’S PLAYING A HUGE PART IN TURNING OUR ISLAND

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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.

edito

WHO WE ARE PUBLISHER

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CONTRIBUTORS EDITORIAL

Clare Bowie Lucas Croydon Martin Malone Suzy Holland Orla Mcmullan

Ros Kent Annabel Wheeler Martyn Anderson DESIGN STUDIO

Russ Atkinson Alex Preist

PHOTOGRAPHY

Julia Simmonds Lucas Croydon Paparazzi Peter

Catherine Devine

Just Lee Photograhpy Shan Fisher

Disclaimer.

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

Recycle.

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.

New beginnings

e all love something new don’t we? Either getting something new or starting something new, it feels fresh and different, whether it’s a new toothbrush or a new mindset. It doesn’t really matter where it’s come from or what you call it; brand spanking new, a new you, pre-loved or recycled, it’s still brings that feeling of hope and newness. This month’s cover star, Clara Isaac, from Conister Bank tells us about a brand new recycling initiative that will offer people an option for a kerbside collection. Clara’s enthusiasm for a sustainable future shows that small steps can really make a difference. Our staycation feature, by Annabel Wheeler, on page 18 tells us all about the joys of supporting local and staying local, as well as the unexpected romance of how we have learned to see our own island through new eyes. A visit to Tynwald National Park has reminded her of the beauty of the scenery and the local pub! Look no further than our wedding photographs that symbolise fresh new beginnings, as well as showcasing more of our beautiful scenery. If ear candy is more your thing than a trip to the park or a walk down the aisle, then new business Ella May earrings is one to watch, check out her wares on page 42, or take a detour to page 90 to hear more about purchasing your next car with bitcoin. Yes, you can actually do that! Of course, we know that you, our readers, may also like to delve a bit deeper, give yourselves a bit of an overhaul, start a new chapter from the inside out. Luckily for us, personal trainer and sports nutritionist Martin Malone is on hand on page 80 to help us with our health choices and believes we all have the power to create a new version of ourselves. Our self-worth tips on page 82 may also remind you that, actually, you’re not that bad anyway, if you would just give yourself permission to believe it. See? A new you and a new mindset is just around the corner. You’re welcome! SR

CONTENTS

CONTENTS PICKS

Visual elements

Logo Our logo is the combination of a simple and modern wordmark with a unique and distinctive icon. This colourway is the primary version of our logo. A secondary version which uses a white wordmark, reverse and monotone versions are shown on page 07.

Conister Bank icon

Always use the logo files provided. Do not recreate.

Conister Bank Summary Brand Guidelines

Conister Bank wordmark

Conister Bank logo

THE REST UPFRONT

3 Edito 6 What’s On 12 A New Leaf 14 Conister Bank’s Clara Isaac is Turning Our Island Green

18 STAYCATIONS 20 Me & My Pet 22 Our Community

EVENTS

24 Ramsey Crookall 75th Business Anniversary 28 The Wedding Day of Mr & Mrs Skinner 30 The Wedding Day of Mr & Mrs Mckenna 32 The Wedding Day of Mr & Mrs Williamson

CULTURE

34 ELLYN - A Tale of Contemporary Art 36 Boundaries - Island Artist 38 UPLOAD Photo Competition FASHION & BEAUTY

42 A Glamorous Picnic AGENDA lite

46 Business News 48 Telecoms That Take You Places 51 Manx Telecom Rebrands Global Solutions 54 Q&A with Joanne Dugdale, Chartwell Financial Planners

56 Movers & Shakers 4

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

CONTENTS

HOME

58 - 72 Property Features APPETITE

74 The Little Igloo Company 76 New, Fresh & Exciting 78 Recipes ACTIVE

80 A New You 82 4 Steps To Self Worth 84 Top 10 Tennis Tournaments

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

HARDWEAR

86 Gadgets 88 Gadget of The Month 90 Purchase a Car With Bitcoin 92 Manx Motorsports In-Photos PAPRAZZI

96 The Courthouse 98 Oscar’s 100 1886 102 Diane’s 40th at 1886 106 The Front Porch

UPFRONT

WHAT’S ON Now – 20.06.2021

10.06.2021

THE WORKS: KEVIN ATHERTON

//MANX MUSEUM, DOUGLAS// Manx international artist Kevin Atherton returns to the Isle of Man with a retrospective exhibition at the Manx Museum. Covering a career that stretches into six decades and which has involved pioneering work in film, video, performance art, and public sculpture, the exhibition brings together Atherton’s significant achievements in these cutting edge fields into a building he has been familiar with since childhood. Free entry: www.manxnationalheritage.im

Now – 31.07.2021

MNH COMMUNITY EVENTS

//ISLAND-WIDE// Community events across Manx National Heritage sites in June and July including The Grove Museum, Ramsey, Laxey Wheel, Castletown, Peel Castle and Cregneash.

SUPERGRASS

//VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// Back in 1995 you’d have got some decent odds on the chances of three naked men in a bath turning out to be one of the few British bands to escape the 20th Century with their dignity intact.

05.06.2021

MICROGAMING PLAY IT FORWARD JUNIOR TRIATHLON 2021

//NSC, DOUGLAS// A rescheduled date for this junior event with the pool, perimeter cycle track and running track at one location making it an ideal location and great for youngsters to get involved in a traffic free environment, and experience what it is to be a triathlete. www.facebook.com/ManxTriClub

With hindsight it would have been worth a flutter. Gaz Goombes, Mick Quinn and Danny Goffey, along with long-term collaborator Rob Coombes who officially joined the line-up in 2002, went on to score an unbroken run of five Top 10 albums (six, if you include a greatest hits), among them three platinum sellers generating millions of worldwide sales spawning ten Top 20 singles. And now’s your chance to see Supergrass on your home soil. Tickets: www.villagaiety.com, the Welcome Centre and the Villa Gaiety Box Office T: 01624 600555

www.manxheritage.im

now – 25.08.2021

SUMMER CONCERTS

//SAILORS SHELTER, PEEL// Every Wednesday from 8pm – 10.15pm, local musicians entertain in this most intimate of venues on Peel Quayside. Free entry. Tea and Coffee available or bring your own bottle (and a cushion for the benches!) Donations for the upkeep of the venue welcome. www.facebook.com/shoh.slaynt

Now – 03.10.2021

BOUNDARIES

//HOUSE OF MANANNAN, PEEL// This exhibition presents a new opportunity for members of the Creative Network to display their work and represent the Isle of Man. Through this exhibition, the Creative Network hope to make ‘Boundaries’ a regular feature, aiming to showcase strong, curated bodies of work which could perhaps tour off Island in the future – taking Manx art to a broader audience and raising the profile of the Manx art world. Free entry: www.manxnationalheritage.im www.facebook.com/creativenetworkiom

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

JUNE/JULY 11.06 – 13.06.2021

THE TWITS

//GAIETY THEATRE, DOUGLAS// Following the success of ‘Juan and the Beanstalk,’ Hello Little People is ready to wow the Island again with this innovative production of THE TWITS, one of Roald Dahl’s best loved books, adapted for stage by David Wood. With original music, terrific tricks and joyous jokes, this epic show will have you laughing out loud and wanting more. Great for the whole family. Best suited to children 5+ but younger children welcome at the parent’s/ guardian’s discretion. Rearranged dates: Your original tickets from April will still be valid for these performance. www.roalddahl.com | www.davidwood.org.uk www.villagaiety.com

12.06 – 17.07.2021

ELLIE BAKER LANDSCAPES

//HODGSON LOOM GALLERY, LAXEY// Ellie Baker is a landscape artist. Inspired by the Island’s land and seascapes, capturing patchwork fields, dramatic skies, dry stone walls, ragged gorse and rocky beaches. Working in layers and wash or rub-back to reveal contrasting colours and textures. Her work is bold, colourful and atmospheric, and this exhibition is bound to suck you in to her vivid imagination. www.facebook.com/HodgsonLoomGallery

18.07.2021

MIDDLE DISTANCE TRIATHALON

//MOORAGH PARK, RAMSEY// An all new event organised by the Manx Tri Club, with a 1.9km swim in the lake, 90km bike and 21km run. Entry forms, route maps and more: www.facebook.com/ ManxTriClub

UPFRONT

WHAT’S ON

19/20.06.2021

29.06.2021

RUSSELL HOWARD: RESPITE

27.06 – end 07.2021

Tickets: www.villagaiety.com, the Welcome Centre and the Villa Gaiety Box Office T: 01624 600555

//ISLE CONTEMPORARY, UNIT 1, THE OLD GASWORKS, PEEL// This exciting new contemporary art space launches with a ‘pottery lottery’ and exhibition of work from the some of the Island’s favourite contemporary artists including Jade Boylan, Colette Gambell, Ellie Baker, Kate Jerry, Robert Jones, Dawn Kennaugh, Jeremy Paul, Karolina Pawlowska and Graham Rider and a collection of work by AOS-SI Ceramics, which is also based in this new venue.

Rearranged – tickets from Sept 2020 dates are still valid.

www.islecontemporary.com | www. facebook.com/islecontemporaryonline

//VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// Following the critically acclaimed sold out arena leg of his tour ‘Respite’, Russell Howard returns with his biggest globespanning stand-up tour to date. Riding high on the success of his Sky One show The Russell Howard Hour, and his global smash Netflix special Recalibrate, Russell is back on stage where he belongs, making sense of a world that’s spinning out of control.

UNIT 1 + 101 POTS (A POTTERY LOTTERY)

McFLY

//VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// With seven UK number-one singles, five top-ten albums, six sell-out tours and ten million records sold worldwide, McFly are without question one of the most significant British pop acts of the twentyfirst century. The 2021 Tour will be as spectacular an experience as we have come to expect from McFly. They will play their bestloved mega-hits such as All About You, Obviously, Star Girl, One for the Radio and Shine a Light as well as tracks from their new album ‘ Young Dumb Thrills’. Tickets: www.villagaiety.com, the Welcome Centre and the Villa Gaiety Box Office T: 01624 600555

19.06 – 20.06.2021

MANX TELECOM PARISH WALK

//ISLAND-WIDE// The annual 85 mile walk around the 17 parishes of the Isle of Man, to be completed within 24 hours. Starts at the NSC and finishes on Douglas Prom. If you’ve not already started training it’s probably too late, but please be aware of walkers and support vehicles around the Island, particularly during darkness. www.parishwalk.com

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

JUNE/JULY 02.07 – 03.07.2021

ACADEMY OF DANCE

//GAIETY THEATRE, DOUGLAS// The Island’s Academy of Dance presents a vibrant, energetic and exciting programme of dance, featuring some of the islands talented dancers. The programme includes modern, contemporary and classical ballet selections - a pleasurable and uplifting evening, suitable for the whole family. www.villagaiety.com

03.07 – 05.07.2021

ISLE OF MAN FLOWER FESTIVAL

//ST JOHN’S MILL, ST JOHN’S// Taking place at the historic St John’s Mill the 2021 Flower Festival features: colourful floral displays from 30 local exhibitors. See the original working water wheel, with refreshments in the Mill Café. Free parking, disabled parking and access/lift. www.visitisleofman.com

04.07.2021

//ISLAND-WIDE// Back in action after the cancellation of last year’s event due to Coronavirus, this is the 10th edition of the Island’s premier sportive, the Isle of Man Lighthouses Challenge’ powered by Microgaming Play It Forward – a classic coastal ride circumnavigating the Isle of Man.

//RAMSEY TO LAXEY// The climb begins at sea level in Ramsey and then you will walk/trek and conquer North Barrule, Snaefell and finally, Beinn Y Phott, finishing on Laxey prom. Led by qualified professionals, you will reach the three top peaks of our beautiful Island where, weather permitting, you can enjoy uninterrupted panoramic views of the stunning Manx landscape.

There are three ride distances (100+ miles, 57 miles and 28 miles) so there will be an option to suit riders of all abilities from the leisure cyclist to seasoned professionals.

Supported by Crowe Isle of Man LLC, and raising funds to create a wellbeing therapy room at The Children’s Centre Farm.

E bikes were first allowed to take part in 2018, so if you’ve been inspired to cycle using this ‘new’ technology, this could be the challenge you’ve been waiting for.

For more information about this event, to register your interest or to reserve your place, contact Jane Howland or Sharon Connor by email fundraising@ thechildrenscentre.org.im

www.facebook.com/ LighthousesChallengeIOM

www.thechildrenscentre.org.im

LIGHTHOUSES CHALLENGE CYCLE SPORTIVE

MANX 3 PEAKS CHALLENGE

UPFRONT

WHAT’S ON

04.07 - 06.07.2021

PORT ST MARY SECRET GARDENS & HIDDEN TREASURES

//PORT ST MARY// Pathways of the secret gardens with antiques, collectables, vintage treasures in the Town Hall and numerous gardens open throughout the village. £5 entry fee allows access to all gardens and the Town Hall. All proceeds will be donated to Rushen Heritage Trust. www.rushenheritage.org

08.07 – 10.07.2021

MARIAN, OR THE TRUE TALE OF ROBIN HOOD

//GAIETY THEATRE, DOUGLAS// The Service Players present this brilliant new twist on one of our best-loved legends. “Marian, or the True Tale of Robin Hood” tells the story of how it really went down in Nottingham all those years ago. This “gender-bending, patriarchysmashing, hilarious” comedy by Adam Szymkowicz first opened in New York in 2017 and is sure to be a great night out for the grownups. Not suitable for under 14s. www.villagaiety.com

JUNE/JULY

22.07.2021

BONEY M

//VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// RS Promotions present BONEY M - one of the bestselling artists of all time. With more than 150 Million records sold worldwide including Brown Girl in the Ring, Daddy Cool, Rasputin, Sunny, Ma Baker, Belfast, Painter Man, Hooray Hooray it’s a Holiday and the iconic Rivers of Babylon/Mary’s Boy Child, everyone knows the name. Everyone knows at least one of their songs. Now meet BONEY M – featuring Maizie Williams, the original singer from the very birth of BONEY M and definitely the ‘M’ in Boney M, now joined by three dynamic singers. Boney M will be joined on the night by Special Guests Soul Kinda Wonderful, featuring Richie Sampson (formerly with The Drifters and The Foundations) who will be performing a 70’s Disco set list. So get ready to sing and dance along. There is to be a Charity bucket collection after the show in aid of the Manx Breast Cancer Support Group.

24.07.2021

ELLYN FESTIVAL

//AMPHITHEATRE, DOUGLAS HEAD// A new one-day festival of visual and performing arts, featuring local artists, musicians, writers and performers as a celebration of the creative and colourful world of the Isle of Man. Raising funds for local mental health charities. www.facebook.com/theellynfestival

27.07.2021

BELINDA CARLISLE

//VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// Former member of California super-babes The Go-Go’s and a highly successful solo performer in her own right, Belinda has sold over 90 million records worldwide throughout her career to date. Belinda is famous for the hits “Mad About You”, “Circle in the Sand”, “Leave a Light On”, and “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” Tickets: www.villagaiety.com, the Welcome Centre and the Villa Gaiety Box Office T: 01624 600555

Tickets: www.villagaiety.com, the Welcome Centre and the Villa Gaiety Box Office T: 01624 600555

24.07.2021

THE MEGA MANX CEILI

//VILLA MARINA, DOUGLAS// For one night only, Yn Cruignnaght presents the biggest and best Ceili the Villa has ever seen. Fabulous music from the Mega Manx Ceili Band and the Manx Fiddle Orchestra, with more music, and dance acts you’ve ever seen the like of! www.villagaiety.com

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

A collection of artwork from Island based artists exploring the impact of boundaries on our lives

22 May - 3 October 2021 House of Manannan, Peel FREE EXHIBITION

UPFRONT

A new leaf will retain positives will youyou retain anyany positives 1

Taking control of your own fitness

Assuming that you managed to dodge the virus, you might well emerge this Summer much fitter than when you first kitted out your pandemic bunker in 2020. Much like those people who go into prison resembling a hungover Ricky Gervaise and emerge looking like a WWE wrestler there’s a point during confinement when developing a solo exercise routine can become a way to feel like you have predictable control over some aspect of your existence. Whether this is daily yoga with Adrienne, running around country lanes in a gas mask, or swinging a wipe-clean kettlebell till you give yourself a hernia, for many of us it’s been the only thing stopping us from gorging on mail-order Jaffa Cakes or doing a murder because our partner is snoring. I am personally looking forward to gyms reopening, but I’m not sure whether I’ll do any exercise or just hang out at the back and enjoy the novelty of letting middle-aged men breathe all over me.

Six month outlook:

My kettlebell will be in the cupboard, because I got distracted by there being other humans in my exercise class and horrifically sprained both my bum cheeks

Making your own food

In the early days of the pandemic getting hold of processed food was often so much hassle that even chunky families who normally live on chips and TV dinners were prepared to make peace with Jamie Oliver and explore rustic fare sourced from the fields and honesty boxes. I was already a quinoa-munching middle-class ponce so my reaction was to go one step further and cut out processed food entirely, as well as embarking on a messy journey into home baking. At first this was intensely frustrating (flour on my clothes/ ceiling) and then very fattening (none of these goodies can go to waste) but I eventually achieved a zen equilibrium of wonderful crusty bread, virtuous salads and enough jogging to keep the wobble gut at bay. I may spend an hour or so cooking every day, but have saved a surprising amount of money and am now healthy enough that being taken out by a virus will be a delicious irony if it happens before this magazine goes to print.

Six month outlook:

The first taste of McBreakfast triggers a junk food relapse that could feature in another Trainspotting sequel, as I gorge myself on Dairylea slices, pork scratchings and buckets of Haribo. I will contract gout and be fitted with a gastric band in time to sneeze myself into intensive care during the Christmas flu season

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

Words | Grant Runyon

I don’t want to tempt fate, but as we tiptoe cautiously into Summer it feels like an appropriate time to consider some of the positives of what we’ve all experienced in the last year.

efore people start sanitising their pitchforks and planning to attack my house (in groups of fewer than 10) I would like to stress that this observation is not intended to minimise the economic damage, personal loss or general ambient terror of living through a pandemic. If anything the main thing I’ve taken from the experience is

how incredibly lucky I am to have stuck it out here instead of some other places. It’s reasonable to say my family has learned some positive things about ourselves and our community, not least our ability to adapt and even flourish under adversity. The question is though: how long will these good habits stick around as we return to ‘normal’ life?

from lockdown? from lockdown? 3

Taking the family on an exotic staycation

One of the most strictly enforced changes of human habit has seen the planet breathe a temporary sigh of relief as international travel has been restricted for most of the last year to vaccine delivery, essential workers and Kim Kardashian’s 40th birthday party. Families who habitually jet off every few months have been forced to stop complaining and explore different bits of the UK, or in the case of Isle of Man the other side of the Island. This has led either to a rediscovery of the simple joys of playing Travel Scrabble in a damp tent, or the awareness that spending extended time with your family is only bearable against an exotic backdrop. I don’t have the money for a holiday let, so every few weeks I built a blanket fort in the shed and peed in a hole I dug in the flowerbeds. To make it more like attending Glastonbury I paid my neighbour to try and sell me a packet of oregano for £25 and then rob me whilst I slept. I suppose realistically I am not suggesting that people will continue to holiday here, but there is a lot to be said for the idea that some of us might use ferries and trains as an alternative to burning several tonnes of carbon to enjoy a three day city break sunbathing in a place where slavery is still semi-legal.

Six month outlook:

Like BA Baracus I will need to be drugged to get on a plane, so I’m planning to buy an Interrail pass and take the kids to explore Europe for three months. Thanks to a combination of Brexit and vaccine passports we expect to spend most of this time queuing at customs

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Working from home

Common sense doesn’t actually exist, but the last year has proven that the majority of people will act sensibly if given a strong enough incentive. As a neurotic germophobe I can’t tell you how much it has warmed my heart to learn that our community is quite capable of observing general hygiene and respecting a stranger’s physical space - just as long as the threat of social ostracisation and perhaps death is hanging over us at all times. This has required a dramatic shift of social norms, so you would think that it won’t be too much effort to maintain some of the other things we’ve got used to in the last twelve months - such as the idea that we shouldn’t need to put on a tie and drive to town in order to sit quietly at a computer all day. That doesn’t always reflect the views of the management class, some of whom have become deeply anxious when it has become apparent that most workers are equally productive even when they aren’t lined up like battery hens overseen by a rooster in goldplated cufflinks. They do however have a challenge from within their own ranks, coming from the people who have worked out that free range workers are cheaper if you don’t have to provide a shed for them to lay eggs in. How will this clash of the boardroom be resolved? Whatever the result is, if you try and lay hands on me in a business context I WILL CUT YOU.

Six month outlook:

I will be working 70 hour weeks in the office, surrounded by a wipe-clean perspex bubble. My body temperature, antibody levels and general productivity are monitored by a thermal imaging camera that management can view from their home offices. At the slightest anomaly, 10,000 volts are passed through my mousemat and my body is ejected into a tank of Spirigel beneath the office

UPFRONT

CONISTER BANK’S CLARA ISAAC IS PLAYING A HUGE PART IN TURNING OUR ISLAND

GREEN Conister Bank wants to make a difference – The momentum towards greater sustainability in the financial sector has grown significantly in recent years. It operates a business that acts responsibly, is sustainable and promotes sustainability in what it does. This is not new; it is part of their vision, so much so, that they have formed a ‘Green Team’ to drive this incentive internally. Managing Director, Douglas Grant comments “It is vital that, as a team, we come together and strive to cultivate a robust community that supports the Bank’s green initiatives. Conister’s commitment to a greener future has inspired one of its staff members that she is launching a brand-new service to benefit the island. Clara Isaac who is Head of Management Accounting, was so encouraged by Conister’s green initiatives that she is setting up a recycling collection service to offer those people who live in areas where there are no kerbside collections the chance to still participate.

k on.

Conister Bank icon

Conister Bank wordmark

Conister Bank logo

Clara Isaac ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

‘We hope that a doorstep service will capture the imagination of those people who want to recycle but get frustrated about having to travel a long distance to dispose of their cardboard packaging and plastic bottles.’ BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

UPFRONT

Clara said: ‘At Conister, we have been doing a lot towards supporting our staff and customers as we move towards a greener lifestyle and a sustainable future.

‘I was so inspired by what can be done that I wanted to come up with something for everyone.’

by a doorstep recycling collection service,’ Clara explained. ‘As with many things to do with sustainability and climate change, there is interest, but you have to give people a viable option to take the next step. ‘We hope that a doorstep service will capture the imagination of those people who want to recycle but get frustrated about having to travel a long distance to dispose of their cardboard packaging and plastic bottles.’

She added: I live in Santon, where we don’t have doorstep collections for recycling, so I decided to see if there was something, we could do about that, and after some research I could see an ‘opportunity’.

Clara’s interest was piqued after joining Conister Bank’s new Green Team, which is charged with cultivating a community aim among the workforce that supports the bank’s green ethos.

The concept is to encourage people to register their interest in taking part in doorstep collections and when enough people show interest in a particular area, then we will arrange the pick-up of their recycling.

‘As a member of the Conister Green Team I attended a presentation at Douglas Borough Council about recycling so that we could implement recycling into the office,’ said Clara.

Conister Bank is showing its support by sponsoring the recycling bins that will be used in the scheme – following the same colour scheme that is familiar to residents in Douglas and Braddan. Colleagues at the bank have already started to volunteer if a driver is needed for some of the collections, but Clara said the ultimate aim would be to have an operation efficient enough to employ a driver. Clara said she realised that even if the will was there for many, the opportunity to recycle was limited. ‘Sixty-four percent of the island’s population live in an area that is not served

‘I went home and said to my husband Andrew, “What I would give to pay someone to include me in their collection service.” It was built from there.

Douglas Council has confirmed it will take segregated material from the recyclecollect. im team, apart from glass which can be taken to Corlett’s here on the Island. Recyclecollect.im will operate as a carbonneutral company and offset any emissions. Clara said: ‘I’ve been really pleased with the positive response I’ve had from others so far. People are very enthusiastic. ‘It is clear that local people are passionate about our island and its future. More of us are starting to believe that we have a responsibility to recycle as much as possible, both for the good of the island, and for the wider world.’ The timing of Clara’s initiative is significant. The various lockdowns over the past 18 months and restrictions on collections, have seen a drop off in the percentage of overall domestic collection that came from kerbside recycling. Clara says she and Andrew are committed to getting the initiative up and running in their own time. The key objective is for more people to have access to a viable recycling service.

Andrew and I put a business plan together. I approached my Managing Director Douglas Grant, more as a sounding board, and to my delight he fully supported my idea. I then knew I had to do something and that gave birth to recyclecollect.im. The aim will be to offer a collection service for as little as £3.99 per fortnight.’ ‘less than the amount people spend on a cup of coffee from their favourite coffee shop a week!’ The website has now gone live for people to register interest in the scheme and Clara hopes that by September, collections will have started. For the scheme to work, it is vital people register – and encourage their neighbours, friends, and family to do the same. The website has full details of what you can put in each box and which materials can be recycled.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

‘I went home and said to my husband Andrew, “What I would give to pay someone to include me in their collection service.” It was built from there.’

WHY RECYCLE?* The world’s natural resources are finite – and some are in very short supply.

Conister Bank Green Team

‘We believe if people have an option available to them that is convenient, they are more likely to participate,’ she said. ‘that means more people can play their part in securing a more sustainable future.’

report that Conister Bank’s total carbon emissions in 2019 came to 135.9 tonnes – the equivalent to the average annual energy use in 40 homes or driving 350,000 miles in an average size car. The report set a target for Conister Bank of reducing the 2019 emissions figure by 42% by 2029, which would see the amount come down to 78.9 tonnes. That is coupled with the longer-term target for the Isle of Man as a whole, of net zero emissions by 2050.

The project has been greeted enthusiastically by her colleagues. Earlier this year Conister Bank announced it was mapping out a pathway to reduce its carbon footprint. At a corporate level, Conister Bank has implemented a Green Finance Strategy, tailoring some of its lending options to support individuals and businesses to make moves towards greater sustainability. It has signed approved partner terms with a number of electric vehicle specialists in car dealerships and is keen to expand in that area.

Douglas Grant said: ‘I am impressed with how our staff have truly embraced the moves we are making towards a greener future. I am particularly proud to support Clara in her venture which will ultimately benefit the island.’

Recycling paper and wood saves trees and forests. You can plant new trees but you cannot replace virgin rainforests or ancient woodlands once they are lost. Recycling plastic means creating less new plastic, which is usually made from fossil fuel hydrocarbons. Recycling metals reduces the need for risky, expensive and damaging mining and extraction of new metal ores. The recycling of glass reduces the need to use new raw materials like sand – supplies of some types of sand are starting to get low around the world. Recycling also protects ecosystems and wildlife. It reduces the need to grow, harvest or extract new raw materials. That in turn reduces the harmful disruption and damage being done to the natural world – fewer forests cut down, rivers diverted, wild animals harmed or displaced, and less pollution of water, soil and air. If plastic waste is not recycled safely can be blown or washed into rivers and seas and end up hundreds or thousands of miles away, polluting coastlines and waterways. *Source: recyclenow.im

It followed the findings of a consultants’ If you would like any more information check out the website www.recyclecollect.im. BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

STAYCATION

Photos: UPLOAD Photographers

STAYCATION

Joanna Kelly - Wallaby Sighting

Pauline Guest - 1st tram of 2021 season

Nick Shimmin - Port Soderick, Stargazing

Jill Pugh - Fish & Chips in the car

THE ‘STAYCATION’ PHENOMENON: A BRIGHT SIDE OF LOCKDOWN Words By: Annabel Wheeler

This June will mark one year since the Isle of Man was set free from its cage of the first COVID-19 lockdown. It is historic that we, as a tiny crown dependency, became the first in the British Isles to live sans lockdown and, since then, the island has erupted with staycation holidays. Islanders flocked to local hotels, country cottages and B&Bs in lieu of their usual summer holiday plans. This presented an opportunity for us to explore areas of our home that had previously gone unvisited; regrettably, for many this seemed to include large swathes of the island. Fortunately, this also provided opportunities for local businesses to begin their post-lockdown recovery - with which we were all too eager to help. For me, one such undiscovered gem was the picturesque beauty of the Tynwald National Park and Arboretum. First opened to the public in 1979 to commemorate the millennium of Tynwald, the park envelops areas in the west of the island, framing the shopping complex of Tynwald Mills and providing an immense backdrop for the ancient parliament itself. Astonishingly, the area covers 25 acres of land and encompasses thousands of trees, dating from its original greenery of the 1970s, to recently-planted saplings, preparing to dazzle future generations of visitors. The park attracts an eclectic mix of people, be it young families on a day out, couples going for romantic picnics, or individuals looking to quietly immerse themselves in nature for a few hours. The fantastic scenery is the perfect setting for amatuer photographers to practice their skills and for wannabe

influencers to achieve a wonderfully ‘instagrammable’ shot. A short climb reveals a specially constructed picnic area with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding hillsides; on a warm summer’s day, the sun beats down on this area allowing for an entire afternoon of basking in its heat. The large pond at the centre of the park is home to a number of ducks who relish the adoration from the children who visit them, along with a number of resident hens and chicks that like to use the grove of trees as shelter from the Manx weather. Children are able to follow the path that snakes through the park, learning about different species of trees and plants as they go from the plaques that adorn them, as well as several local charities who have donated trees, flowers and benches throughout the decades. The learning opportunity is not reserved for children. Adults who visit the park are enthralled by its beauty and are consumed with an environmentalist desire to accelerate the planting of trees around the world. In terms of preserving the natural world, planting an abundance of trees is certainly lacking in drawbacks. In a year that has hit the hospitality industry like a hammer, the Manx food and drink industry has, by no means, been left untouched. For the six blissful months in which we experienced almost total normality as an island, Manx hospitality was provided with a unique opportunity to begin to recover from a lockdown that the rest of the British Isles was still in the midst of. No staycation would be complete without a food-centric

Cath Denton - Port Erin

Visit IoM - Tynwald National Park

jaunt. Our island boasts an array of cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars that provide customers with options for brunch, lunch and dinner. The local pub to Tynwald National Park is Tynwald Inn, and this is just one of the many establishments to eat within a stone’s throw of the arboretum. Many of us, over the past 18 months, have spent three lockdowns perfecting the art of day-drinking; the glorious glug of the gin bottle after a late lunch on a Wednesday afternoon was music to my ears during the long, hot days of the ‘lockdown one’ heatwave. With so many gorgeous spots opening up across the Isle of Man - Fynoderee, Foraging Vintners, Seven Kingdoms - it would be criminal for Manx residents to not fill them to capacity over the summer. Not only this, it would be insensitive of islanders to take this privilege for granted after UK residents, until recently, have been denied a pint in their local boozer since Christmas. A year ago, as locals whisked themselves away on cross-island staycations and students flocked home for a summer of freedom after the anticlimax of their end of term university celebrations, the pubs and restaurants filled with punters. Eventually, as ever, this novelty quickly wore off and our local taverns were left to flounder. Now, as summer 2021 begins, these local establishments remain quiet, save for a rush of groups on Friday and Saturday nights. We mustn’t take for granted all that our little Isle has to offer. As the reopening of our borders becomes imminent and Manxies can jet off on foreign holidays once more, we mustn’t forget the beauty and culture on our doorstep. The COVID-19 Pandemic of 2020/1 will go down in the history books, but it is our responsibility to ensure that, as a society, we learn from it embrace the Manx landscape, spend time in the Manx air and support local Manx business. ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

WEFALCON’S ARE NOW TAKING NEST HOTEL STAYCATIONS! BOOKINGS FOR WE ARE NOW TAKING PLEASE PHONE THE HOTEL DIRECT ON 01624 834077 BOOKINGS FOR STAYCATIONS!

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KING WE ARE NOW TAKING STAYCATIONS! BOOKINGS FOR STAYCATIONS!

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Riddler under the Nest ’ FALCON The Potts Family look forward to welcomingS back all our loyal and future customers, to our and newly refurbished Dining Room (Carvery Room).customers, to The Potts FamilyRestaurant look forward to welcoming back all our loyal and future NEST our Restaurant and newly refurbished Dining Room (Carvery Room). Live music most Friday night, Saturday night & Sunday afternoons.

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Restaurant open 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. Live except Sundays Live music most music most Restaurant open 12 Friday Fridaynight, night, p.m. k all our loyal and future customers, to Full English Breakfast served every day 8 a.m. -2 p.m. The Potts Family look forward to welcoming back all ourRestaurant loyal and future Saturday opencustomers, to Saturdaynight night Dining Room (Carvery Room). Full English Breakfas & Sunday & Sunday our Restaurant and newly refurbished Dining Room (Carvery Room).weddings birthdays etc special room rate 12 p.m. -Funerals 2 p.m. Functions inc afternoons. afternoons. Functions inc Funerals we 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. except SundaysBook now Open Open every every evening evening

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from 5pm except Saturday Station Road, Port Erin. Tel: 01624 834077 & open from 12pm. & Sunday Sunday open from 12pm. ting 2 p.m. 3rd sitting 4 p.m. Station Road, Port Erin. every day 8 a.m. -2 p.m. 12-4pm 1st sitting 12 p.m. - 2ndEmail: sittingfalconsnest@entreprise.net 2 p.m. 3rd sitting 4 p.m. www.falconsnesthotel.co.uk Email: falconsnest@entrep OK Please inform us on booking if you have any food allergies or dietery requirements - PLEASEincBOOK - weddings birthdays etc special room rate Functions Funerals Lounge Please Bar open everyday from 11am inform us on booking if yo he Nest Book now Restaurant open 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. 6 p.m. – musicThe most Potts Family look forward to welcoming back all our loyal and future customers, to Full English Breakfast served every y night, our Restaurant and newly refurbished Dining Room (Carvery Room). Station Road, Port Erin. Tel: 01624 834077 day night Functions inc Funerals weddings birthday Email: falconsnest@entreprise.net www.falconsnesthotel.co.uk day Book now Please inform us on booking if you have any food allergies or dietery requirements oons.

Full Carvery Sunday

UPFRONT

BEA

This month’s pet of the month is an assassin feline with a hatred for all other animals! Owned by her Nurse Hannah, Bea has been a long term cuddly friend to her, keeping her company with cuddles, when not on shift!

BEA

Hannah Short

Species: Cat

Occupation: Nurse

Age: 10

Age: 27

Distinguishing features: Stubby tail & face like an angel

Distinguishing features: Tattoos

Special skills: Assassin Pet hates: All other animals Creature comforts: Human beds Human look alike: Jennifer Aniston

Special skills: Play Piano Pet hates: Roadworks Creature comforts: Spa Day Massage

If you have a great photo of you and your pet, send it to editorial@gallery.co.im and maybe we’ll feature you in future!

Animal look alike: Lion Favourite thing about pet: Looks like Stuart Little

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Flexible, Competitive & Locally Owned Isle of Man Business Park, Douglas T: 01624 639811 E: sales.douglas@plumb-master.im Unit 1, Riverside Ind Estate, Ramsey T: 01624 819361 E: sales.ramsey@plumb-master.im

UPFRONT

OUR COMMUNITY

FANTASTIC TURNOUT FOR 2021 HARBOUR2HARBOUR WALK Hundreds donned their trainers and put their best foot forward for the 2021 Harbour2Harbour Walk in association with Dandara on Sunday (16th May).

A total of 577 people and 38 dogs entered the community event which was supported by the award-winning homebuilder for the fifth year. Starting in Castletown Square, walkersfollowed a scenic nine-mile route along the Island’s stunning southern coast to Port Erin via Port St Mary, where there was also a second start for those who favoured a shorter walk. The event, which has an emphasis on family fun and community, raised funds for Southern Community Initiatives (SCI), Port Erin and Rushen Ambulance. The total is still being calculated, but organisers have confirmed that more than £7,200 has already been collected for the beneficiary charities, which will be used to improve their services and continue the work they carry out in the southern community.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

UPFRONT

Event Coordinator Ruth Martin said: ‘We are absolutely thrilled with the turnout for the 2021 Harbour2Harbour Walk. Following its cancellation in 2020 and the uncertainty surrounding this year’s event with the lockdowns earlier in the year, we were keen to make it a really successful and enjoyable walk for the whole community. To see so many people (and their four-legged friends!) turn up with big smiles on their faces throughout made it all worthwhile. ‘I would like to say a huge thank you to Dandara for its continued generosity and support – we couldn’t make it happen without its help. Also to the brilliant marshalling crew from Southern Nomads SPort Erin, the wonderful team of volunteers who ensured everything ran smoothly and, of course, everyone who took part. The money raised will do so much good in our local community.’ Dandara Marketing Manager Angela Beresford added: ‘It has been a pleasure to once again work alongside Ruth

and her team as sponsors of the 2021 Harbour2Harbour Walk. It was naturally disappointing to have to cancel last year’s event due to COVID-19, so we were keen to make 2021 better than ever. It was great to see so many people - young and old - take part and we were lucky to get some decent weather too. Well done to everyone who went the distance!’

Plans are already underway for the 2022 Harbour2Harbour Walk. Keep up-to-date by following the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/harbour2harbour.

EVENTS

RAMSEY CROOKALL CELEBRATES 75 YEARS IN BUSINESS WITH “POLO IN THE PARK”

The picturesque setting of the Ballacooiley Equestrian Estate was the venue for the Ramsey Crookall “Polo in the Park” event in celebration of their 75th year in the business of investing for the Manx community. The Marquee played host to some 400 guests and although weather conditions meant that the polo tournament couldn’t be played, it didn’t dampen the spirits of those that attended, making it a truly memorable occasion.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Date: 23rd May Location: Triskelion Polo Club, Ballaugh

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

EVENTS

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

EVENTS

THE WEDDING DAY OF JORDEN CLOSE AND MATTHEW SKINNER - MR & MRS SKINNER

Mr & Mrs Skinner would like to thank Traditional Oak Swing IOM and Darrah Design Limited. The Noble Suitor and Belles & Bowes Isle of Man for suite and dresses, and Dave Purves for wonderful photos.

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

Date: 15th May 2021 Location: Sea Cliff, The miniature boutique hotel, and Niarbyl Bay and Cafe Photographer: Dave Purves

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EVENTS

THE WEDDING DAY OF CHARLEY BERRY AND KYLE MCKENNA - MR & MRS MCKENNA

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Photographer: Shan Fisher -Shansphoto.com

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Saturday 26th September 2020 Ceremony and Reception: Comis Hotel & Golf Resort, Mount Murray

EVENTS

THE WEDDING DAY OF HANNAH AND RYAN WILLIAMSON - MR & MRS WILLIAMSON

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

EVENTS

Photographer: Just Lee Photography

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Location: Christ Church, Laxey Reception: Ballacregga Bar and Restaurant

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James Duggan

ELLYN – a tale of contemporary art Anyone interested in contemporary art should mark September in their diary when a year long project, initiated by Isle of Man Arts Council intern Olivia Savage, comes to fruition. Words: Suzy Holland Images: From a few of the artists selected for Ellyn

Ellyn (Manx Gaelg for ‘art’) is both a book and an exhibition which, the Isle of Man Arts Council says, ‘celebrates the Isle of Man’s culture, nature, heritage and more,’ all in the form of fine art. “When I applied for the internship,” says Olivia, “I had to suggest a project which I thought would both benefit the Island’s

Eileen Schaer “The Apparition”

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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fine artists, and be a permanent record of their work. The Isle of Man Arts Council agreed that my suggestion, Ellyn, would be a physical experience for both artists and art lovers so last October we embarked on a process which includes 31 invited artists and an ‘open call’ for a further twenty.” The invited artists, some of whose art can be seen here, were chosen after discussions amongst the Arts Team, and were selected for their contribution to the Fine Art community on the Island. Most live and work here, but others have taken their ‘Isle of Man’ connections further afield and include full time artists, teachers, and others all of whose work fits the brief for Ellyn: ‘Being inspired by the Isle of Man does not have to mean that your creative outlet directly responds to it, but that the connection you have lives within your work.’ This brief must also be met by the twenty ‘open call’ artists – for whom the deadline is 2 July so if you’d like to enter (details are on www.iomarts.com) you still have time! When the Covid pandemic struck, Olivia was working on her final show for her degree in Fine Art at the University of Leeds. “I came home in March 2020, with no real idea of how three years of hard work could be assessed. Fortunately I was able to complete my degree, and the department decided to do ‘virtual’ shows and produce a book of all the final year students’ work. So with my degree certificate in my hand, but with my graduation ceremony postponed until 2022 and Covid still raging, I went to work for DEFA. It was then I saw the advert for this internship and as I’d already been thinking about possible careers in arts curation and administration I had to give it a go.” Olivia was one of 30 to apply and as Jane Corkill, Arts Development Manager explains, her project to map out the contributions the Island’s contemporary artists have made to not just the artistic community but to the Island as a whole, struck a chord: “Art exhibitions offer many opportunities: not just an opportunity to buy but opportunities to appreciate, study and learn. Commercial galleries the world over struggle to find a balance between sales and non-selling exhibitions and yet we all want to see great art,” Jane says. “Olivia’s suggestion for Ellyn to be both a book and an exhibition fitted the bill perfectly, and all the artists included will be able to sell their work at the exhibition or donate it to the Isle of Man Arts Council Modern and Contemporary Loan Collection. The book, which will be available as a ‘coffee table’ BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Darren Jackson

Gavin Carter

Vici Blackburn

Rob Jones

fine art hardback and as a softback suitable for bookshelves, libraries, schools and colleges, will be a permanent record of the contemporary art scene of the Isle of Man.” All the works submitted for Ellyn are either new, or not previously exhibited, so the exhibition will be a delight for anyone interested in fine art. “Covid and the responses to the pandemic have shown us what it truly means to work together as an Island,” says Olivia. “The strength shown over the past year to save lives and take back our normality has been nothing short of remarkable, and the artistic response that has shone through has not only been encouraging, but I believe has also elevated our cultural power.”

Sally Black

Kate Jerry

Michael Sandle

The Ellyn exhibition will take place in the Villa Marina Arcade for three weeks from 25 September and the book, designed by Olivia and Martyn Cain and in itself a work of art, will be for sale at the exhibition, from local outlets and can be ordered from the Isle of Man Arts Council from the end of September. The full list of invited artists is available now on the IOM Arts Council website www. iomarts.com and Facebook page www. facebook.com/artscounciliom where the names of the successful ‘open call’ artists will also be posted in the next few weeks. The Isle of Man Arts Council is working on Ellyn in partnership with UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man: ‘connecting with the environment, culture and community and telling our stories creatively’.

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‘Boundaries’

provide inspiration for Island’s artists. When the Isle of Man Creative Network chose Boundaries as the theme for the new exhibition at the House of Manannan it had no idea how it would be interpreted. It also had no idea how the boundaries of the Island were about to be tested.

Words: Suzy Holland Images: Carola Rush and the Creative Network

The exhibition has been a couple of years in the planning, and like everything in this topsy-turvy Covid-affected world has been delayed more than once. The curators (Helen Fox, Ian Coulson and Keith McIntyre) would be first to admit that the original ‘boundaries’ were practical, technical and constrained by being an Island cut off in so many ways from the influences of its near neighbours. And then came Covid - and particularly the effect of months of closed borders when the Island hugged itself away, first to eliminate then to mitigate the effect of the virus. We soon learnt that Covid is no respecter of physical borders and the Island is not immune to death or to related physical and mental illness. It has heightened everyone’s perceptions of social boundaries and turned the Island’s borders from physical restrictions to – for some people - a protective and comforting defence. For others the lockdown restrictions and the closing of the borders to all but keyworkers meant loneliness and isolation. Boundaries provided a focus for freeing the artists’ thoughts, flights of creative fancy whilst constrained and confined within the Island’s own border. “Art in itself doesn’t care about boundaries,” says curator Helen Fox, “and as artists we play with traditional boundaries whether they be cultural conventions, traditions, or genres, and how art should be made. By setting our own boundaries, we produce meaning and what would art be without meaning? The effect of Covid 19 has been so significant,” she continues, “and we now have a greater sense of the boundaries which affect our external and internal life.” As you’d expect from the Island’s creative and artistic community, the range of work in Boundaries covers every genre. Some names will be familiar, others less so, and the theme ricochets between the obvious to the intensely personal. Real physical boundaries can be found in Graham Rider’s paintings of land meeting sea and in potter Jo Lewy’s ‘Borders, Level 4 (Residents and Keyworkers Only)’. At first glance Sarah Devereu’s delicate paintings of gateways are familiar sights, but even these boundaries aren’t exactly what they seem. In ‘Gateway to Ballaneddin, Ballaugh’ Sarah has painted the four original posts and the distinctive twisted walls as they would have been, but if you’re able to find this farm boundary yourself you’ll see how it has changed and deteriorated. As Sarah says, without restoration, this piece of traditional Manx vernacular will soon disappear.

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Paul Ford’s much larger than life sculpture is a commemoration of his late father, with the collaged sections of maps of the east end of London where he was born and brought up, and whose anecdotes from those places and times were shared with Paul: ‘Tales of the City’ is the ear that listened and preserved these memories. Carol Baker’s ‘Broken’ is an extremely personal piece about abuse, and boundaries that when crossed cause lasting psychological damage. Some artists, like curator Helen Fox, have chosen to include physical elements representing boundaries in their work: Helen’s ‘Cuddle Curtain’ is knitted from unravelled, fishing string from the Island’s beaches. Textile artist Helen Winter stayed close to home and found the positive moments inside her safe boundary - forced to slow down and reflect, and with no restrictions on time, she was free to explore and experiment with new embroidery techniques and recycle her extensive collection of old beads and broken jewellery in ‘Without Boundaries during Lockdown.’ All thirty artists represented in Boundaries BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

has had difficulties of its own with the on/off lockdowns, cancelled events, and postponed and rearranged exhibitions.

have risen to the challenge of the theme, exploring the physical and mental boundaries in their own art, and although the artworks themselves are an opportunity to ‘see’ the theme as their makers intend, it is the statements which accompany them which give real insight into how the artists have been affected by boundaries in their practice, whether they be practical, actual, emotional or theoretical. Of course the exhibition would not have been able to go ahead at all without the help of Manx National Heritage which

“At Manx National Heritage we are delighted to be re-opening the doors and welcoming back the public to enjoy and engage with our sites once again,” says Public Engagement Officer Julia Curran. “Boundaries, is particularly pertinent in the current climate, as it reflects feelings of being contained or restricted; something we’ve all had our own personal journeys with over the past year. Our Island is packed with creative people,” Julia continues, “and we’re thrilled to be a part of showcasing these talents with a collaborative exhibition from The Creative Network.” Boundaries brings together works which as a whole make a powerful study of what boundaries, of any sort, mean to the artists, and to the small nation that is the Isle of Man: an attempt by the Creative Network to provide an identical starting point to stimulate, inspire and provide food for creative thought. See for yourself how successful it’s been at the House of Manannan, Peel, until 3 October.

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UPLOAD

UPLOAD - OUR ISLAND YOUR PHOTOS

£50 W

inne r

1 L aura Collister Castletown Harbour Huawei P20 Pro camera

2S ue Furner Fenella rockpool

Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra

3 Christian Rothwell Niarbyl Rocks

3 2

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4 5

4 Brian Carr Port Erin Sunset 5J asmine Crellin Ramsey, Seagull Adventures

6 Lee Kennaugh Port Erin

Huwaei p20 pro Camera

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7 Audrey Guniava Silverdale Glen 8

9 Adrian Callister 10

Huawei P20 Pro Camera

8 Alison Watterson Ramsey, Samsung Camera Slieau Ruy summit

10 Janette Phair

Arboretum, St Johns

Panasonic Lumix Camera

11 Glen Cowell Port Erin

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12 Pauline Guest Taken from Marine Drive, Douglas 13 Krysia Boruch Ramsey Sunrise

14 Isobelle Pover

Douglas 15 Rosy Johnson Niarbyl 16 Nina Manmeet Limmer Chibbanagh Plantation

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FASHION

A GLAMOROUS PICNIC 42

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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‘A glamorous picnic with friends, the epitome of summertime. That’s what inspired this editorial, according to Orla Mcmullan (Styling & Creative) starting off as a small project to help the wonderful Ella May Earrings create promotional content for her new business, it gradually grew into a fabulous collaboration of local, female creatives. With hopes of using this project to help everyone on our team grow and further their creative journey, depicting the camaraderie of a picnic alongside the growth and beautiful blooms of summertime felt like a natural parallel. We hope these visuals embody all the things that summer should be filled with - good weather, good food, good style and good company.’

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

FASHION

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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CREDITS Styling and creative direction: Orla Mcmullan (@orla.mcmullan) Jeweller: Ella May Earrings (@ellamayearrings) Photography: Catherine Devine (@cattdevine_photography) Make-Up Artist: Elina Keig (@makeup_by_elina_) Models: Olivia Valerga (@olivia_valerga), Hannah Caley (@_hannah_caley_), Emma Keeling Production Assistant: Alex Wilson-Spratt Location: Milntown Gardens (www.milntown.org) BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

Business News

UCM STUDENTS GO HEAD-TO-HEAD AT SKILLS TEST 2021

6 students from University College Isle of Man’s (UCM) engineering department put their milling and turning talents to the test at the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre (AMTC) this week. Skills Test is an annual event which offers students an opportunity to not only demonstrate their trade talents, but also to celebrate and recognise the complexities of vocational qualifications. This year, the spotlight was on first- and second-year students from the engineering department, who displayed the intricacies required in their creative process; both physically and theoretically. John Cashin, Engineering Assistant Programme Manager, explained, “The engineering skills test is designed to challenge students to understand drawings and plan for an effective and efficient manufacture of a component, within a restricted time. Competitors are observed by judges and representatives from local industries, so it is a great opportunity for students to show off their skills to potential employers”. Students competed in two areas: manual milling/turning and CNC turning/milling. Turning and milling are two common machining processes in the manufacturing industry which remove material from a component using various types and styles of cutter. The difference between the two process is that with milling, the work is stationary and the cutter rotates while the opposite with turning; nonetheless both processes produce very complex components.

agenda

Now in its third year, Engineering Skills Test is an occasion which welcomes family, friends and members of the public, to support those pursuing vocational qualifications, and discover more about this area of study. (Mrs) Jo Pretty, Principal of UCM, commented, “Skills training is very important for the Island’s economy and the annual Skills Test gives students and apprentices the opportunity to demonstrate their strengths and build their confidence in pressured and time constrained environments. This year they have really risen to the challenge. It is great to work closely with employers on our programme content and to have their

engagement and support in this event”. Cash prizes for this year’s event, have been kindly donated by local engineering and manufacturing businesses: Swagelok, Strix Technology, Triumph Integrated Systems, Target Tools and RLCRonaldsway. Winners of this year’s competition are as below: Best Overall Student: Thomas Young First place - Turning: Byron Mckellar First place - Milling: Stephanie Christian First place - CNC Milling: Jacob Leece First place - CNC Turning: Josh Blackburn ON THE AGENDA

Rising star: Clarity Consulting shortlisted for global iGaming award

ess than a year after being launched, Clarity Consulting Limited has been recognised as a rising star in the global iGaming industry after being shortlisted in the EGR B2B Awards 2021. The Douglas-based advisory business was founded by Tina Rawlinson FCCA, one of the Island’s most knowledgeable and respected business leaders. Due to its remarkable success, it’s now one of only six businesses from all over the world that are in the running to win the ‘Services Rising Star’ category of the annual awards. Since Clarity Consulting launched in August last year, the business has grown rapidly and already has a strong reputation which has been built on Tina’s wealth of experience and expertise within the iGaming sector. Tina commented: “Being recognised by your peers is always rewarding, but even more so after the challenges of the past year. I’m very proud that the business has been shortlisted for an award which celebrates the very best service providers

in the global online gaming industry. It’s the icing on the cake after a fantastic start for the business. It’s also pleasing to see several other Isle of Man-based service providers shortlisted in other categories because it shows that the Island’s iGaming sector continues to go from strength to strength.” Tina is a former Cavendish Trust Company director who has 30 years’ experience in iGaming licensing, strategic governance, multi-jurisdictional structuring, compliance and risk management. Clarity Consulting Limited

offers clients the benefit of Tina’s knowledge and expertise in all of those fields, in addition to advice about relocating to the Isle of Man. The other five businesses shortlisted in the ‘Services Rising Star’ category are 4H Agency, Better Change, Djinnybet.com, First Look Games and Simion & Baciu. The awards ceremony takes place on July 6 and 7 - there’s a virtual ceremony on day one, and on day two there’s a virtual ceremony in the afternoon followed by an in-person event in the evening at York Lawns, London.

A celebration of leadership talent, success and achievement

APPLY NOW The IoD Isle of Man Director of the Year Awards represents the pinnacle of business leadership and excellence.

Applications are now open for our 2021 awards and we encourage you all to apply. Apply at: directoroftheyear.awardsplatform.com HEADLINE SPONSOR

Telecoms Feature

“Working with Manx Telecom has been great, they were totally on-board from the very beginning and were really attentive to what we needed”

Telecoms that take you places agenda

Photograph Credit: Richie Cryer Jewell Photography ON THE AGENDA

Integrating a telecoms strategy at the heart of your business planning can ensure you have the flexibility and versatility to cope with whatever the future throws at you. We look at how Cycle 360 has worked with Manx Telecom to create an agile and adaptable system for a forward-looking company Photograph Credit: Amore du Plessis

ne of the many learnings for businesses over the past year has been the recognition of just how critical a good telecommunications system is for survival. For some, the impact of the pandemic has been a steep learning curve, forcing them to re-evaluate what capability they have in existing systems and adding on extra features where needed. For others, the sudden switch to remote working and the need for increased digital communication with customers was more of a cultural shift, necessitating a different mindset rather than different equipment. Above all, the pandemic has demonstrated the value of integrating a telecoms strategy right in the heart of your business plan, ensuring your systems grow and adapt with you, and help your business to thrive. One local company that has successfully taken this approach is Cycle 360. Opened in 2018, Cycle 360 is a unique blend of three complementary businesses in one - a café, bike shop and fitness centre, all housed under the same roof. Located in a purpose-built building at the Isle of Man Business Park, Cycle 360 offers a holistic approach to health and nourishment, as well as a relaxing place for its customers to chill out with free Wi-Fi and live-streamed entertainment. For CEO and Founder Mark Horsthuis, the fact that he was building a business on promoting fitness for the future meant a telecoms system that would allow Cycle 360 to embrace the best of new technology was high on his initial shopping list. “We knew we needed something that would support the different aspects of the business in a cohesive way and that also gave full flexibility for future developments,” he explained. “Reliability, resilience and costeffectiveness were important factors – and we were keen to make good use of the cloud for all our data, so consistently strong superfast broadband was a must-have. “We knew we were anticipating heavy demand in the café and bike shop, making seamless uninterrupted service vital to support both our customers and ensure BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

“We knew we were anticipating heavy demand in the café and bike shop, making seamless uninterrupted service vital to support both our customers and ensure our sales processes ran smoothly. We also needed something that would provide two simultaneous networks – one for the public and one for corporate use.”

Matt Lamb

our sales processes ran smoothly. We also needed something that would provide two simultaneous networks – one for the public and one for corporate use.” Prudently, Cycle 360 began its search for a telecoms solution early on, before even a single brick was laid for the new building. Working with Manx Telecom’s corporate team, the requirements for each area of the business were analysed and discussed in great detail so that a plan could be pulled together offering the optimum solution. This included looking together at the layout of the store and how the different business elements would work best together. Installation of fibre broadband was the first key decision to be made. Not only does fibre deliver the best Wi-Fi experience available on the Island - for both Cycle 360 and its visiting customers – it also allows transactions to be made easier and faster via a cloud-based payment solution. The fibre broadband also supports the five smart TVs located around the building which allow Cycle 360 to stream live cycle races and other sports events. An extra layer of broadband resilience was provided by a VDSL (Very high-speed Digital Subscriber Line) service. With both mobile and fixed line phone services required, another critical part of the solution was the installation of Intelligent Voice, a Voice-over-InternetProtocol-based virtual switchboard which delivers a wide range of telephony services that can be expanded easily as businesses grow. As well as great scalability, Intelligent Voice offers features such as remote working, voicemail to email messaging, auto-attendant, call pick up and hunt groups. Readily adaptable, Intelligent Voice allows Cycle 360 to easily manage all the different parts of its business without the need to invest in expensive hardware. It also offers significant savings on call costs. Thanks to the input from Manx Telecom, Mark Horsthuis believes Cycle 360 is one of the most technologically advanced businesses in the Island’s fitness and retail sectors. “Working with Manx Telecom has been agenda

Telecoms feature

Photograph Credit: Zane Corlett Photography

great, they were totally on-board from the very beginning and were really attentive to what we needed,” he said. “The results have been everything we hoped for – we haven’t had a single drop in our broadband service – and we have had a lot of compliments from our customers about the speed and quality of our WiFi. “Under lockdown we made a commercial decision to close the café side of our business, but we were able to quickly move over to virtual fitness sessions and an online personal shopping experience for the bikes to keep in touch and grow our relationship with our customers. “The system we have works really well across all the business areas and is versatile enough to cope with anything we may want in the foreseeable future. We feel very future-proofed, despite being a data heavy business model. “Manx Telecom also helped in other ways – giving us a lot of guidance about how to get the most out of the system we have and ironing out any little problems we had along the way quickly and effectively. “They really have been great supporters of the business and provided an excellent level of service throughout, even down to giving us telephone numbers that include the numbers 360!”

“We knew we needed something that would support the different aspects of the business in a cohesive way and that also gave full flexibility for future developments”

Manx Telecom Corporate Sales Account Manager Zoe Richardson said, “The pandemic has made more businesses scrutinise their communications systems to ensure they are fit for purpose and readily adaptable to changing circumstances. “Mark and the team at Cycle 360 have demonstrated the value of putting a telecoms strategy at the heart of the business, so that systems are fully aligned to support future growth and opportunities. “From our point of view, the chance to work on this flagship project presented a number of technical challenges around providing a leading Fibre to the Premises delivery solution for both the free access customer Wi-Fi network and the independent Secure Business Network while offering full resilience and redundancy. It helped enormously that Mark and the team had a clear vision of the business requirements and it was a pleasure to work with them to achieve their objectives. “Of course, at the time, none of us knew that there was a pandemic around the corner and that everyone would need to make such drastic changes to our ways of working. It goes to show that designing a system with so much versatility and futureproofing really rewards the initial effort and planning involved.”

For more information and a demonstration of how Manx Telecom’s broadband and Intelligent Voice solutions could help your business or organisation, contact the business sales team by email at sales@manxtelecom.com or by calling 636636.

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ON THE AGENDA

Business news

MANX TELECOM REBRANDS GLOBAL SOLUTIONS TO GROW SHARE OF GLOBAL IOT CONNECTIVITY MARKET Manx Telecom has announced the relaunch of its Global Solutions division under the brand OV.

“The IoT and connected smart devices offer consumers and businesses endless possibilities that can improve how we live and work. It is forecast there will be around 25 billion connected devices by 2025.

OV, derived from Of Vannin, the ancient name for the Isle of Man, will continue to serve the growing global Internet of Things (IoT) market along with its established global Mobile Virtual Network Enabler (MVNE) and travel SIM business.

“Our mission at OV is to deliver the most appropriate connectivity solutions for customers’ IoT ecosystems so they can leverage the full potential of IoT and benefit from transformational productivity gains as a result.

Set up more than 10 years ago, the business is focused on building partnerships in markets outside of the Island, leveraging Manx Telecom’s world-class network infrastructure and roaming relationships with 600+ mobile operators in 170 countries. OV’s Head Office is based on the Isle of Man with more than 40 people working for it locally. Following rapid expansion due to the continued growth in demand for IoT cellular connectivity, OV already has partnerships with network providers worldwide, with over 5 million OV SIMs connecting IoT solutions. They can be used in smart devices in any areas requiring processes, controls, and automation to be delivered remotely. These include wearables for health tracking, connected cars, smart traffic management and connected medical devices in the healthcare sector, amongst others.

“The decision to rebrand was driven by a greater need to focus on the IoT industry, which is growing at 30-40 % each year, as well as our MVNE and mobile connectivity services. “Using OV’s portfolio of tools, services and products, combined with Manx Telecom group expertise in successfully innovating, designing, and deploying IoT connectivity, we are gearing up for continued expansion in the IoT connectivity space and have ambitious plans for our Island-based operations.”

With access to multiple networks in each country for resilient services, OV SIMS can be combined with the ability to deliver voice services, which is especially useful in situations such as healthcare and wellbeing where there may be a need to speak to the IoT user. OV’s comprehensive MVNE and travel SIM services has served travelers from China to the USA. Commenting on the relaunch, Sutha Siva, Chief Operating Officer at Manx Telecom and Chief Executive Officer of OV, said:

Sutha Siva

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CHALLENGING TIMES CALL FOR

INNOVATIVE MARKETING

WHAT OUR

CUSTOMERS

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Gavin Dunaway The Media Trust "The project went really well and the experience was excellent."

Aline Marques Encepta

Animation Explainers

Dylan@animationexplainers.com

+44 7787 173547

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Animation An Animation An Explainers Explainers Adds Adds John John Qualls Qualls To Its To Strategic Its Strategic Advisory Advisory Board Board Animation An Animation An Explainers Explainers Ltd. (AE) Ltd. has (AE) announced has announced that that JohnJohn Qualls, Qualls, CEO CEO of Purpose of Purpose HQ isHQ theisnewest the newest member member of of the their the their Strategic Strategic Advisory Advisory Board. Board. Qualls Qualls is recognized is recognized as a as leader a leader in talent in talent optimization optimization and is and anisinnovator an innovator with with cutting-edge cutting-edge technologies technologies that that help help organizations organizations maximize maximize productivity productivity and profitability. and profitability. Animation Animation Explainers Explainers Anim Anim Animation Animation Explainers, Explainers, experiencing experiencing rapidrapid growth growth sincesince its launch its launch in 2018, in 2018, is now is now expanding expanding internationally internationally with with new new offices offices serving serving the UK, theIreland, UK, Ireland, and North and North America. America. In 2020, In 2020, Animation Animation Explainers Explainers produced produced moremore thanthan 200 200 animated animated explainer explainer videos. videos. The momentum The momentum continues continues into 2021, into 2021, with with the company the company on track on track to more to more thanthan a a double double its production its production of corporate of corporate videovideo and business and business animation animation projects. projects. AE recently AE recently launched launched a Hosting a Hosting & Reporting & Reporting Package. Package. It offers It offers a comprehensive a comprehensive suitesuite of client of client services, services, in including in including video-content video-content reporting reporting and hosting and hosting toolstools to help to help businesses businesses track,track, analyze, analyze, and manage and manage videovideo c c for the content content forbest the best results. results. The timing The timing for adding for adding Qualls Qualls to AE’s to Strategic AE’s Strategic Advisory Advisory Board Board is ideal is ideal for this for this launch. launch. JohnJohn Qualls Qualls John Qualls Qualls is a thought is a thought leader leader in talent in talent optimization optimization and technology and technology innovation innovation for organizations for organizations worldwide. worldwide. Joh John Joh Beyond Beyond his role his as role CEO as CEO of Purpose of Purpose HQ, he's HQ, also he's also a leading a leading Board Board Member Member of the ofIndiana the Indiana Chamber Chamber of of Co Commerce Co Commerce and is and active is active in other in other business business management management and development and development organizations. organizations. MostMost significantly significantly fo AE, foQualls for for AE, Qualls is theisfounder the founder of Bluelock, of Bluelock, a leading a leading Infrastructure-as-Service Infrastructure-as-Service provider, provider, and he and has he extensive has extensive video-hosting video-hosting and IT and expertise IT expertise for optimal for optimal results results fromfrom animated animated videovideo content. content. “B2B “B2B videovideo production production has skyrocketed has skyrocketed sincesince mostmost people people are working are working remotely remotely afterafter the COVID-19 the COVID-19 pandemic,” pandemic,” says says Animation Animation Explainers Explainers co-founder co-founder Dylan Dylan Healy. Healy. “Our “Our agency agency is scaling is scaling rapidly rapidly because because businesses businesses needneed a quick a quick way way to visually to visually explain explain complex complex products products and services.” and services.” Animation Animation Explainers Explainers Co-founder Co-founder Aaron Aaron Connolly Connolly added, added, “We're “We're animated animated videovideo production production experts, experts, but we’re but we’re not experts not experts whenwhen it comes it comes to international to international business, business, finance, finance, and hosting and hosting technologies. technologies. JohnJohn is a lifesaver is a lifesaver because because he's helping he's helping us scale us scale up and up optimize and optimize our team our team to meet to meet the demand the demand for explainer for explainer videos, videos, and he and he also also brings brings innovative innovative insights insights and new and new technologies technologies to help to help host host and manage and manage our clients’ our clients’ videos. videos. We’re We’re continuing continuing to focus to focus on our oncore our core competency competency of providing of providing professional professional videos videos that that sell clients' sell clients' products products and and services. services. As we Asexpand we expand our service our service to cover to cover the US, theUAE, US, and UAE, Australia, and Australia, we wish we wish to ensure to ensure our same our same top-quality top-quality results results for allfor our allnew our new clients.” clients.” Just as Just their as their videovideo production production has doubled, has doubled, AE's list AE'soflist major of major clients clients has also has also grown. grown. They've They've scaled scaled up into up into new new verticals verticals including including cybersecurity, cybersecurity, telecom, telecom, insurance, insurance, and medical and medical device device companies. companies. TheirTheir blue-chip blue-chip clients clients include: include:

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Q&A with joanne dugdale

Professionally

& Personally A Q&A with Joanne Dugdale – Manging Director, Chartwell Financial Planners.

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ON THE AGENDA

n 2019, Manx woman Jo Dugdale decided to take the plunge and set up her own practice. Two years on, Chartwell Financial Planners is providing respected independent advice to private clients and business. So how does she find Island life professionally and personally and which foundations gained early in her career have shaped her life so far. We caught up with Jo to find out…

WORK:

What was your earliest ambition? To be an accountant; I liked numbers and they paid well! What was your very first job? I couldn’t wait to start work, my first job was a waitress in the Shaftesbury Hotel but before then I would cut hedges for neighbours for pocket money. What is your business background? I started with a Degree in Financial Services. My first proper job was with the Bank of Bermuda but I’ve covered a range of areas: banking, corporate lending, CSPs and financial advice. What does your current role entail? As a financial planner my job is to keep clients financially safe and make the most of their money. You only get one life and I firmly believe that if you have control of your money you can live your best one. What qualifications/training do you need for your job? I have a Diploma in Financial Planning. But any level 4 qualification in financial advice recognised by the Financial Conduct Authority:Chartered Insurance Institute Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning The London Institute of Banking & Finance Diploma for Financial Advisers Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment Investment Advice Diploma If you had not chosen your current career, is there another career path you would like to have pursued? That’s tricky because from the age of 20 I knew I wanted to be a financial planner, it just took me a while to find my way back to it. If money wasn’t an object I’d be happy to do this for free, it can be incredibly rewarding. Have you ever had a mentor who made a real difference to your career or is there a person in business you really admire, and if so, why? I’ve learnt something from everywhere I’ve worked, whether it be good or bad.

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What’s the best business lesson you’ve ever learned and how did that come about? Don’t assume that people know what you think they should know. Always question. My default position is to consider the worst case scenario which can be quite negative so one of the biggest lessons is to see the positive in every change. There always is one, it just might take me a bit longer to find. What’s the best thing about your job? When clients come in for the next meeting and they are like a different person ie the worry eases. What is the best business advice you could offer to anyone? Be brave and have confidence in yourself. Don’t assume because you haven’t done it before you can’t learn. What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the same sector? Learn from the ground up. Ambition or talent: which matters more to success? Neither I hope. Ambition is when you are focused on working hard for personal rewards and recognition and Talent is gifted to you, no hard work required. I actually think to have passion for what you do makes you unstoppable. To be motivated by a desire to make an impact is truly authentic which is what sets you apart.

DIGITAL AGE: What are your favourite gadgets? iphone.

What websites do you visit most? At the moment it’s car websites. I have been trying to find a replacement for my faithful Honda Civic for about two years now and am still no wiser!

What is your favourite film/music/ book? Saving Private Ryan. D-Ream ‘Things can only get better’. Harry Potter – all of them. What is your favourite TV series? Has to be Line of Duty. What is the most memorable event you have attended? Being invited to ‘Lunch with the Queen’ - sadly I didn’t actually get to meet her or have lunch with her but I’ve still got the invite. If your 20-year-old self could see you now, what would she think? Good work! Took you a while! What is the best piece of personal advice you could offer? Don’t eat yellow snow! Accept that we are all made very differently. Understand what makes you tick, what makes you happy, anxious, sad and create a life that plays to your strengths. I.e. Don’t get a job managing people if you prefer working on your own. Name 3 things you would like to do before you die? See more of the world. Do the Longest ZipLine in North Wales. Travel round Scotland in a campervan.

IoM:

What is your favourite place to eat? I couldn’t decide between 14 North, Coast & Fig & Olive. What is your favourite Manx spot? A walk around Port St Mary. You get to see the best the island has to offer in such a short distance; sandy beaches, smugglers coves, a quaint harbour & ragged rock formations.

Do you shop online and if so what for? Clothes if I can’t get locally.

What do you get up to in your spare time? Nothing very exotic: Meals out with friends, walks around the island and watching films.

PERSONAL: Where in the world would you most

What do you drive? Honda Civic – super reliable!

like to visit and why? China and Japan – as the cultures are so different!

What’s your biggest extravagance? Piano that I rarely play – I max out on Good King Wenceslas every Xmas. If there was one thing you could change about the Isle of Man, what would it be? A few more sunny days.

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appointments

NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR AND OPERATIONS DIRECTOR FOR ISLE OF STEAM PACKET COMPANY

he Isle of Man Steam Packet Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Thomson as its newManaging Director. A maritime leader with a wealth of experience and knowledge, he will officially begin in the role on 5th July. With a Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering background, Brian began his professional career with the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency. He relocated to the Isle of Man in 2014 to work as a Surveyor for the Isle of Man Ship Registry and, in 2019, was promoted to Principal Surveyor. Brian recently led the Isle of Man Government Ill Code Compliance Project. The Steam Packet Company has also confirmed the appointment of Kane Taha as Operations Director. A former Marine Manager with the Company, over the past six years he has broadened his maritime experience in Dubai as both a General Manager and a Chief Marine Specialist for the Dubai Government Road and Transport Authority. He will take up his new post on 19th July. Chairman Lars Ugland said: ‘On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome both Brian and Kane, two highly motivated and experienced individuals who will ensure continued stable leadership and growth. ‘The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company

impacts on every facet of Island life and this is truly an interesting time in our history with many exciting projects on the horizon.

‘I am sure their contributions to the business will be invaluable going forward and we wish them every success in their new positions.’

TISE announces new CFO

he International Stock Exchange (TISE) has appointed Andrew Watchman as its Chief Financial Officer. Mr Watchman has been Senior Finance Manager at TISE since October 2017, with responsibility for TISE’s financial reporting, management information and financial control environment. Cees Vermaas, CEO of TISE, said: “I am pleased to announce Andy’s appointment as our CFO. Andy has been a very important part of the business during the last few years and he is the ideal candidate to lead the Finance team as we enter an exciting chapter for TISE.” Prior to joining TISE, Mr Watchman worked at Kleinwort Benson for 12 years where his career took him from trust accounting, to fund accounting,

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including a portfolio of LSE listed funds, and then to the Finance team. In that role, he spent six years providing financial reporting, management information and commercial support across Kleinwort Benson’s businesses. Latterly, he was Head of Channel Islands Finance for Kleinwort Benson. Mr Watchman is a Fellow Member of the Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants (FCCA). Mr Watchman, Chief Financial Officer of TISE, said: “I am delighted to have been appointed CFO. I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of the team over the last three and a half years and I am looking forward to the challenge of becoming CFO at a time when we are implementing an updated strategy for further growth in the coming years.”

ON THE AGENDA

Catriona joins the Board at PDMS

DMS is delighted to announce that Catriona Watt has been appointed to the board of Directors. In her role as Chief Commercial Officer, Catriona is responsible for driving the commercial strategy of PDMS overseeing business development and client relationships. Catriona joined PDMS in 2008 and has held various roles across the organisation gaining in-depth insight into the different parts of PDMS’ business. Most recently she has led our Business Development and Account Management team, based in the Isle of Man and Glasgow, identifying new business opportunities and key strategic partnerships for PDMS. About her appointment, Catriona commented: ‘Throughout my 13-year career in PDMS, I have had the opportunity to grow and develop professionally. It is a great honour and privilege to be invited to join the board at PDMS and I am looking forward to inputting into the strategic future of the company.’ Chris Gledhill, CEO added: ‘We are delighted to welcome Catriona to the board. This promotion recognises Catriona’s extensive knowledge of our digital services and solutions and our long-term relationships with our clients, combined with her drive, acumen and leadership in business development.’

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Thie Noa, Clenagh Road, Sulby

£895,000

An opportunity has arisen to purchase a beautiful period property including cottage/annex situated in the heart of Sulby Village, five minute drive to Ramsey Town Centre and walking distance to the sought after Sulby Primary School. This stunning period property is situated in approximately half an acre of secluded landscaped gardens and benefits from a delightful annex to the rear of the property, making this an ideal property for two generation living. Double Gates leading to a block pavioured drive in front of the property. The accommodation comprises: Main House: Spacious Entrance Hall with Galleried Style Landing, Large Lounge, Dining Room, Modern Fitted Breakfast Kitchen, Study and L Shaped Conservatory, Four Double Bedrooms & Master En-Suite, Family Bathroom both with Under Floor Heating, Integral Double Garage. Annex: Entrance Hall, Lounge, Fitted Kitchen Diner, Utility Room, Double Bedroom, Bathroom with Under Floor Heating.

Both properties have Oil Fired Central Heating & Double Glazing.

The gardens are laid to lawn and well stocked with beautiful plants and shrubs, mature trees to the boundaries adds to the private, secluded feeling of this enchanting garden. Ample patio areas ideal for family alfresco dining and entertaining. Green House and Garden shed for storage.

Viewing Highly Recommended to appreciate this Unique Property. To arrange a viewing call Propertywise (Sole Agency) T: 01624 662820 www.propertywise.co.im

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Devonshire House, 43 Devonshire Road, Douglas This is a unique opportunity to purchase a modern detached house which was built in 2001 yet situated in one of the most sought after established areas of Douglas. This fine home offers deceptively spacious family accommodation enjoying a welcoming reception hall with. washroom off, spacious living room, study, stunning open plan dining kitchen with family room, conservatory with insulated roof and there is a utility room on the first

floor there are four bedrooms all complemented with their very own en-suites. There are distant countryside views and to the rear there is a large south facing lawned garden and paved patio area. To the front of the property there is a good sized block paved driveway leading to a rear courtyard area also providing access to the detached double garage.

£799,000

Key features n Modern detached house built in 2001 n Sought after leafy location n Spacious family accommodation n Spacious living room, study and conservatory with insulated roof n Large stunning dining kitchen with open plan family room n Utility room and ground floor washroom (WC) n 4 Bedrooms (4 en-suites) n South facing lawned garden n Detached double garage n Gated block paved driveway leading to additional courtyard 4

To arrange a viewing call Garforth Gray Estate Agents T: 01624 667788 www.garforthgray.im

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H O M E & IN TE RIO RS HOME

TheThe Plant Plant People People

Words Ros Kent Words Ros Kent

Anyone with an Instagram account will have noticed the ever-increasing number of plant pics. Whether it is leafy lounges, botanical bat rooms or hallways hanging with vines, the houseplant has never been more popular. 2020 saw an increase of 23% in houseplant sales compared to July 2019. 2020 was also the year that found us spending more time indoors in our homes, working, learning, isolating or shielding and there is no doubt that the desire to bring a bit of nature in to our homes has led to this trend. Introducing the Plant People…

The Plant Parent

Plants make the perfect pets and are accessible to all; you never see an ad for a flat that says “no plants”Many people discover that when they brought their plant home from the shop they didn’t just get a decoration they now have something to nurture and care for, in fact many people name their plants. Prof. Norbert Schwartz says that naming them actually has benefits on mental well being, and by naming your plant “babies” you create a connection. Emotionally and physically you experience positive responses to nurturing and caring for a plant.

The Plant Collector

A word of warning, houseplants can be addictive. Search for houseplant memes and the results show the amusing side of letting plants take over your house. The variety of houseplants available means that there is always something new to invest in and add to your collection, there are plants to suit all homes and budgets. So beware, one plant is never enough; there is always room for one more, even if you have to buy a new shelf to put it on.

The Plant Saviour

This is me, I have a house full of half-dead plants. I love the challenge of reviving them and working out what makes them thrive and what doesn’t. I am fascinated by how they grow, for example watching a plant grow from the a tiny cutting. They may look ugly to start but when you see that first new leaf it brings such a great sense of hope and achievement.

The Plant Instagramer

Plants are the Stylists dream, the variety of shapes, colours, shades of green and textures set with the infinite combinations of containers, shelves, trellis’, stands and displays provides endless photo opportunities and interior styles. The hashtag #shelfie is used frequently on Instagramers plant pics and #houseplants has been used 3.5 million times.

The Small Miimo that thinks

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The Nature Lover

Houseplants allowed those of us without gardens access to nature, during lockdown. Having greenery in our homes is relaxing and for many over lockdown if we couldn’t get out and do some “forest bathing” (that’s for another article) filling our houses with foliage recreated our connection with Mother Nature. Green Framing is the act of creating a surround of plants which when you look out the window seems to link the room through to the outside. So what does 2021 hold for the Houseplant? As employers are turning their thoughts to welcoming their staff back into the office, should they be considering how some of those staff have thrived working in the home environment and the thought of going back to office is actually filling some people with dread. We need to learn from this experience and one thing we should take from this is that people have developed a greater love of the nature and the outdoors. Adding plants to the workspace is a perfect way to soften the space and make it a less barren, more welcoming, corporate landscape. The benefits of having plants in the office are scientifically proven through numerous studies. Plants increase humidity, the benefit of this is that the need for air conditioning is reduced, thereby saving costs. With the air being less dry, irritations such as itchy cough, sore eyes and dry skin are alleviated. Plants not only improve air quality by releasing oxygen, they also purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, xylene and ammonia. These are toxins which leak from the built environment around us and in enclosed spaces they can build up. NASA completed studies into

this in the late 80’s and it has been further backed up by other more recent studies. The benefits are not only physical. Staff who had plants placed in their offices showed a reduction in stress levels of 30-60%. Hues of green are calming and peaceful, humans can see more shades of green than any other colour. It is important to take a break from the screen, having foliage in the office gives employees something other than their monitor to rest their eyes on and encourages them to spend a few moments absorbing their surroundings. It has been proven that together all this can increase productivity by 15%.

“Adding plants to the workspace is a perfect way to soften the space and make it a less barren, more welcoming, corporate landscape.” As we enter into summer 2021 and are returning to our places of work, what will become of all the house plants? Well luckily, unlike a cat or a dog, they can be left to fend for themselves during the day, and if you are missing having greenery about then why not speak to your office manager and see if you can get some plants brought into the office.

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25 Oak Park, Ballawattleworth Estate, Peel Beautifully presented three bedroom home in a highly desirable and modern development constructed in 2019. This property is situated in a convenient cul-de-sac location overlooking a large green area and is within walking distance to schools, swimming pool, shops, promenade and beach. The well presented accommodation is fitted to a very high standard and includes high quality fixture and fittings throughout providing excellent accommodation for a growing family. The accommodation comprises, welcoming entrance hall with washroom (WC). There is stunning ultra modern open plan living and kitchen area with breakfast bar. The kitchen is

superbly appointed with AEG appliances. There are french doors from the living area providing access to the rear garden and an attractive paved area. On the first floor there are two bedrooms, one benefiting from fitted wardrobes and there is a luxury family bathroom. To the second floor is a master suite with fitted wardrobes and complemented by a luxury ensuite shower room. There is also a large storage cupboard on the second floor. Externally to the front of the property is a driveway with parking for two cars. To the rear of the property is a lawned rear garden and paved seating area enjoying much of the afternoon sun.

£315,000

Key features n Beautifully presented stylish 3 bedroom home n Remainder of 10 year NHBC warranty from 2019 n Accommodation presented over 3 levels n Walking distance to schools, swimming pool, shops, promenade and beach n High quality fixture and fittings throughout n Ultra modern open plan living and kitchen with breakfast bar n 3 bedrooms with main bedroom occupying the second floor n Luxury family bathroom and ensuite shower room n Driveway with parking for two cars n Lawned rear garden and paved seating area enjoying much of the afternoon sun.

To arrange a viewing call Garforth Gray Estate Agents T: 01624 667788 www.garforthgray.im

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Supplier of outdoor living products including the Morso Forno garden ovens and barbeques

A wide range of fire pits and barbeques from £25 to £1000 Hammocks, log baskets, fragranced candles and fire maintenance products Kiln dried hardwood in bulk and by the net. Collection or delivery Solid fuel and wood burning stoves supplied and installed by our in-house team of government registered installers Over 30 stoves on display in our Ramsey showroom

Tel 818187 for more information www.snugliving.net & www.thesnuglimited.com 1-3 Auckland Terrace, Ramsey, Isle of Man IM8 1AF

PASCOES OF TROMODE The Island’s leading stockist of Miele domestic appliances.

Tel. 676066 | www.pascoes.net | Find us on Facebook

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NEW ISLAND HOME ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE Absolute Abode has opened its new home entertainment showroom on the Isle of Man. Its beautifully designed living room space features premium products from a carefully selected portfolio of awardwinning performance audio and home automation manufacturers. With calming views across the Irish Sea, the friendly and knowledgeable team aims to relax and inspire its customers, allowing them to create their own zone in which they can escape to enjoy the emotions of music and movies.

Having established its London store, O’Brien Hi-Fi, in 1966, the Absolute Abode team brings over 50 years of experience to the Isle of Man. Its aim is to bring music and movies to stunning life and to integrate this with simple to use technology by Crestron including audio visual, lighting and blind control. Everything is designed, supplied and installed with a focus on energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

guarantees a unique home entertainment purchasing experience. Mark O’Brien, company director, said, ‘We are delighted to be able to open Absolute Abode on the Isle of Man. Our first living room space was created in our London store, O’Brien Hi-Fi, over 10 years ago - this created a fresh experience for enjoying hi-fi and was one of the first of its type. We felt this space was required to broaden the appeal of listening to music at home, previously a concept that suggested large boxes and lots of cables! We wanted

to show a living room could also be a beautiful place to enjoy music (and movies) without resembling a laboratory! Through hi-fi, home cinema and smart home technology we can help our customers build their Absolute Abode!’ John Carroll, managing director of distributor, Renaissance Audio, commented, ‘I am proud to be able to supply Absolute Abode with some of the world’s finest audio products. The beautiful experience centre provides the perfect showcase for listeners to enjoy a stunning performance.’

‘The Absolute Abode team brings over 50 years of experience to the Isle of Man’

Amplifiers, streamers, turntables, DACs, cables and loudspeakers from renowned manufacturers such as MOON, Sonus Faber, VPI, Naim and Nordost will delight any listener. This combination of products, knowledge and a beautiful coastal location BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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LUCERNE COURT, DOUGLAS

FAIRHAVEN

4 BEDROOMED DETACHED EXECUTIVE FAMILY HOME THIS STYLISH 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. n n n n n n n n

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

PRICE £1,165,000 VIEWING HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

For more details call 615000 or visit dandara.com 68

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BALUSTRADE SOLUTIONS LIMITED

28 Church Rd Port Erin IM9 6AQ Tel 837494/M 253147 www.balustradesolutionsiom.com emailbalustradeiom@gmail.com

If you are looking for a bespoke glass and steel balustrade on the Isle of Man, you should give Balustrade Solutions a28 callChurch today. We design Rd Port Erin IM9 6AQ and install made-to-measure stainless steel Tel 837494/M 253147 balustrades and handrails, as well as glass walls www.balustradesolutionsiom.com and doors and frameless structural glass work.

BALUSTRADE SOLUTIONS LIMITED

emailbalustradeiom@gmail.com

If you are looking for a bespoke glass and steel balustrade on the Isle of Man, youglass should give Balustrade Solutions a call today. We design If you are looking for a bespoke and steel balustrade on the 28 Church Road, Port Erin, IM9 6AQ Isle of Man,and you should give Balustrade Solutions a call today. We design install made-to-measure stainless steel balustrades and handrails, as T: 837494 M: 253147 and install made-to-measure stainless steel balustrades and handrails, as E: balustradesiom@gmail.com welland asdoors glass doors well as glass walls and walls framelessand structural glassand work. frameless structural glass work. www.balustradesolutionsiom.com

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Key features n Historic water tower n Planning permission for approx. 3500 sqft house which has the Water Tower in the centre n Plans have been created to incorporate the arts and crafts styling of the Water Tower n Set within a 2 acre plot n Stunning views over surrounding countryside n Sea views will be achieved from the first floor level

The Water Tower, Ballamoar, Sandygate

£230,000 (negotiable)

The historic Water Tower sits in a 2 acre plot with spectacular views across countryside and out to sea from the upper levels of the tower. Believed to have been built in the late 1800 originally to supply water to Ballamoar Castle and later to provide electricity to an engineer workshop and sawmill on the site. The Tower is built from Manx stone with beautiful arts and crafts style features, the water tank has been removed and the workshop and sawmill demolished. Planning permission is in place to build a property approx. 3500 sqft house which has the Water Tower in the centre. The plans have been created to incorporate the arts and crafts styling of the Water Tower and taken features from other properties in the surrounding area. It consist of a 2 story building on one side with 4 double bedrooms all with en suite, utility area and cloak room, through the Water Tower base via a glass atrium on either side to a large open plan lounge, dining room, kitchen with a vaulted ceiling with floor to ceiling arched windows, leading into a stunning sunroom. In addition the plans include a separate garage with a workshop/storage facility at the rear. Plans also include provision of a ground source heat pump to supply heating/hot water. There is potential to arrange private access in two aspects, firstly through contact with the local landowner or via a perimeter road giving access through the copse at the far end of the plot.

To arrange a viewing call Garforth Gray Estate Agents T: 01624 667788 | www.garforthgray.im ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

APPETITE

DINE OUT WITHOUT GOING OUT, WITH THE LITTLE IGLOO COMPANY A Manx company has come up with a new concept in dining out, so you can eat under the stars without worrying about the cold.

The Little Igloo Company offers the ultimate experience with the minimum of fuss.

restaurants the Island has already so you can have your favourite food in your perfect surroundings.’

You can arrange for dinner or a party in the perfect setting in your ideal location. The German-made igloos can be decorated to provide the surroundings you desire and can be heated.

She added: ‘We’ve taken many bookings already. It can be for a hen party, a quiet meal, or a corporate event, as long as you can provide the location, we can supply the igloos and the décor to meet your needs.’

Whether it be a romantic meal for two under moonlight, or a company night out where you can keep bickering colleagues in separate igloos, the evening can be tailor made for your desires.

Sam said the company can cater for birthday parties, baby showers, weddings, pre- or post-prom gatherings. Any special occasion you care to imagine, the Little Igloo Company can offer something unique.

The concept is the brainchild of businesswoman Sam Noon and is already taking off. ‘We provide the igloo, the décor, even the heating, the customer can have it just the way they like, we pride ourselves on every detail that goes into making the igloo look extra special’. she said. ‘The only thing we don’t provide ourselves is the dinner itself – we think it is better to choose from the many caterers and

There’s even a disco igloo package for those who want to dance under the stars but stay warm and dry! Or why not try the summer hot tub igloo package? ‘We are coming up with more packages all the time,’ said Sam. ‘But we can also offer a bespoke service for individual customers. If they have a vision, we’ll help them create it.’

To find out more give Sam a call on 07624 204005, visit www.thelittleigloocompany.im or email info@thelittleigloocompany.im

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Chris Franklin Dining & Events is a locally based catering provider run and owned by award winning Chef Chris Franklin. Chris has over 20 years’ experience working within hospitality & catering on the island and has competed on 2 occasions in International Culinary competitions in London’s Excel exhibition centre. Chris has now established the business on island which has gradually expanded and covers all aspects of outside catering on either small, medium or large scales. Make your occasion that bit extra special with high quality catering at affordable prices.

Services:

• Wedding Catering • Private Home Dining/Dinner Parties

• Canapé Events • Fine Buffets • Corporate Catering • Occasional Catering

Please get in touch for a no obligation quote. Tel: 07624 431146 | Email: info@chrisfranklindining.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/chrisfranklindining

Time out

noodle bar

Marina Road, Unit 1, Falcon Shopping Arcade, Douglas, IM1 2HE T: 410667 W: www.timeoutnoodlebar.com F: www.facebook.com/time-out-iom

APPETITE

Words By Matthew Kinnin

NEW, FRESH AND EXCITING

IN THE WORLD OF WINE, THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING FRESH AND EXCITING WAITING AROUND THE CORNER, AND WE DO NOT JUST MEAN A NICE GLASS OF ALSATIAN RIESLING. A SUMMER WINE TASTING, A PROMISING NEW VINTAGE, ACCESS TO NEW WINES AND GRAPE VARIETIES ... SUCH THINGS WILL ALWAYS PIQUE OUR INTEREST. BUT TIMES ARE CHANGING, AND THE WAY WE THINK ABOUT AND PARTAKE IN WINE IS EVOLVING MORE QUICKLY THAN EVER BEFORE: IN MANY WAYS, THIS IS PROVING TO BE A GREAT THING, WITH CURIOSITY AND INNOVATION TAKING CENTRE STAGE.

Whilst we all fondly remember our parents’ drinks cupboard and that dusty old bottle of QC Cream at the back, (don’t we?!), there is another, more sophisticated side to sherry that is slowly gaining popularity on our shores. As an introduction, Amontillado is an ideal style: gorgeously complex, caramel and nut flavours on tap along with fruity flavours supporting. With all that diversity of flavour, it pairs well with so many different foods, Spanish charcuterie being particularly complimentary. Therefore, if you are looking for an aperitif, a food accompaniment, a digestif or even an addition to a cocktail call in and browse our extensive sherry range and have a chat with one of our team so you can get the best out of this on trend and versatile tipple.

We have also seen a renewed and increasing interest in sustainability and how a wine is produced, which is one of the core values at the heart of our shop, along with quality and expertise. These days, ethics play a big role in our consumption. We want plump, rosy-cheeked chickens that roam freely producing our eggs and we want untainted, tenderly nurtured grapes going into our wine. Whilst this may not happen in the larger, mass producing, commercial operations there is plenty of it happening in smaller productions, with vegetarian, vegan, organic and biodynamic wines all making their presence felt. A truly beautiful winery in South Africa, Waterkloof, produces wines with all these elements, and although there is debate around the efficacy of biodynamic techniques, there is no doubting the sense of freshness and purity you seem to find in many of the wines made this way. The ‘Circle of Life White’, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc and Semillon, was a personal highlight, a truly seductive wine for £13.95, but the whole range allows Mother Nature to shine, with the results being a clean, complex style that is especially suited to those who might be sensitive to sulphites. All of the products in our shop are colour coded so just by walking around you can see which are vegetarian, vegan, organic and biodynamic, helping you pick out

that perfect bottle no matter what your preference. Finally, it would be remiss not to highlight the emergence of the virtual wine tasting as a new way to enjoy a hosted evening with friends or family. Everyone who knows our shop knows that we are all about welcoming you in, whether it is to buy a bottle, seek advice or come to one of our events. Being around you in person is always preferable, but there are several benefits with the online version, and the industry has become rapidly accomplished at hosting them. With extended exposure to the host, you can learn a lot more about wine than you might otherwise and you can also relax and truly appreciate the wine, perhaps with the perfect meal and in the comfort of your own home. This is a great way to team build and catch up with your colleagues where the new normal means that your workplace may have changed and may even be from home. Even with the return of live tasting events, there will surely be a place for the online version going forward. With all of this in mind, we have been very busy at the shop lately, acknowledging how important it is to bring more of an allencompassing service to our customers. Our new website provides details on the majority of our products, and we are adding more every day. If you are looking to check if a certain wine is vegan, just search for it on our website, where you will also find tasting notes and other information. You can also see our special offers, place orders for delivery/collection and arrange the drinks for any events that you are looking to host. To celebrate being able to gather again with friends and family we are also excited to have launched our new wine tasting packages which you can order online. This is a great way to start an evening or a dinner party and for something a little extra special, you can even add a host and one of our experts will lead it for you. Either way we look forward to seeing you soon!

ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

A NEW RESTAURANT CONCEPT

It isn’t difficult to find great places to eat around Douglas, and North Quay is about to gain another string to its culinary bow with a new relaxed dining experience from the team behind much-loved Ocean Restaurant. Épernay – which is due to open on Saturday 19th June – will be taking over the site of the current Ocean Restaurant, with the same management, front of house team, chefs, and hospitality service that patrons of its predecessor have come to know and love.

“ÉPERNAY HAS SET OUT TO CREATE A MODERN, RELAXED DINING EXPERIENCE” Taking its cue from French and European cuisine, Épernay’s menu will utilise the best of local ingredients and offer both a small and large plate dining experience (think pâté en croûte, crispy braised lamb, and local scallops) with a frequently changing menu to showcase the best seasonal produce the Isle of Man has to offer. Sharing its name with the entrepôt of French champagne, Épernay has set out to create a modern, relaxed dining experience inspired by British and European homemade cuisine, with a curated wine list and exceptional service. The restaurant itself will aim for the casual sophistication associated with tapas-style dining, with the refinement coming from dishes immaculately executed by Head Chef Nic and his team. Épernay is expected to be a welcome addition alongside existing neighbourhood restaurants and become a staple of North Quay’s dining scene.

35 North Quay | Douglas | Isle of Man | 01624 622 000

APPETITE

Recipes PEPPERONI PIZZA OMELETTE

BAKED EGGS WITH BAYONNE HAM & PARSLEY CREAM (Serves 4) n 40g butter, softened n 4-8 slices Bayonne ham n 8 eggs n 2tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley n 100ml double cream n Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper n Crusty French bread, to serve n Preheat the oven to 150C/300F/ gas mark 2.

(Serves 2-4) n 250ml passata n 2tbsp tomato puree n 3 garlic cloves, grated n 6 large free-range eggs n 2tsp dried oregano n A drizzle of olive oil n 150g sliced pepperoni n 2 balls of mozzarella (about 125g each), drained n 2tbsp fresh oregano leaves n 30g Parmesan cheese n A small handful of basil leaves n Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper To make the tomato sauce, heat the passata, tomato puree and garlic in a saucepan over a medium heat. Simmer to reduce until the sauce is nice and thick. This will take eight to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat, season with salt and pepper to taste and leave to cool. Preheat the oven to 200C/Fan 180C/Gas 6. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and dried oregano and season with salt and pepper. Heat a little olive oil in a 24cm non-stick ovenproof frying pan over a medium-high heat. Pour in the egg and stir until it is almost fully cooked, removing the pan from the heat when the omelette is still a little runny and wobbly in the middle.

Sprinkle with the oregano and then place the pan in the oven for eight to 10 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the ‘pizza’ is set.

Generously butter four individual ovenproof dishes or ramekins and place on a baking tray. Divide the ham slices between the dishes, laying them over the base and up the sides. Crack two eggs into each dish and then top with some of the parsley and the cream. Season with salt and pepper and bake for 12-15 minutes until the eggs are just set.

Remove from the oven and immediately grate the Parmesan over the top. Scatter over the basil and serve at once, directly from the pan.

Scatter over a little more parsley and serve warm, with crusty French bread.

Gently spread the tomato sauce all over the omelette. Cover with the pepperoni, then tear the mozzarella into pieces and scatter it over.

Recipe from: Stay-Happy Ways To Lose Weight by Tom Kerridge is published in hardback by Bloomsbury, priced £20.

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The perfect day should be all about you. are a wedding catering company with more than 20 years’ experience on the Isle of Man. The dedicated chefs devise bespoke menus utilising locally-sourced, premium ingredients to bring clients’ wishes to life.

Catering for the Isle of Man’s private and corporate event’s. Offering barbeque, canape, bowl food, buffet, carvery, sit down meal and silver service for any size event. Whether you are looking for a chic wedding breakfast, a stylish buffet or relaxed bowl food, we can help you design your perfect wedding menu.

Call us on 301433 or find us on: www.functioncaterers.co.uk www.facebook.com/functioncaterersisleofman | www.instagram.com/functioncaterersiom/

THIS AD SPACE IS AVAILABLE, CALL 619540 TO FILL IT

Indian, Seafood Vegetarian & Vegan We are a family restaurant serving fresh & wholesome trendy Indian inspired dishes with an extensive drinks, craft beer & cocktails list. We use Manx products and supplies. You are very welcome at Aura.

We look forward to serving you soon. OPEN

Tuesday to Saturday, 5 - 10PM Sunday, 5 - 9PM Monday, Closed

4 Marathon Terrace, Queens Promenade, Douglas T: 01624 620999 M: 07624 466999 F: www.facebook.com/Aurabarbistro

ACTIVE

NUTRITION

A ‘NEW’ BEGINNING A ‘NEW’ YOU

“Feeling confused and overloaded with information? You’re not alone”

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At some point in all our lives we will have a desire to change something and improve our health, or the way we look. A ‘NEW’ beginning, a ‘NEW’ you. You may just want to fit into a dress or pair of jeans that haven’t left the wardrobe for years, drink a little less, get fitter, sleep better, feel healthier, or it could be a more fundamental change after you’ve been given a second chance at life. Easy, right? Well as we all know, change is not easy, especially in today’s world. I remember growing up that health, as I knew it then, was ‘Simple’. Eat good food, climb trees, laugh a lot, fall off your bike a few times and always get home before dark. So why has health, or just being healthy, become so complicated for kids and adults alike? Our ancestors have been around for about six million years so we must have done something right to make it this far? With the world and all its knowledge now at our fingertips, nothing feels simple anymore. How do we know what’s real and what’s not, or even where to start? Where has the simplicity gone? Way back in 1946 the World Health Organisation (WHO) defined ‘Health’ as ‘A complete state of mental, physical and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease’. They further defined health as, ‘The steps, actions and strategies one puts in place to achieve optimum health by taking responsibility for their decisions and making smart health choices for today and for the future’. In the WHO’s definition, a mouthful in its own right, ‘choices’ is the most powerful word. You, and only you, can make that choice to change but how many people take those first few steps and then slip back into their old familiar ways, despite the consequences? Maybe they weren’t fully prepared, didn’t have the knowledge and support they needed, or they were simply just confused. As per the WHO’s definition, health is a multifactorial state of being, so to achieve optimal and lasting health, it’s rarely one thing that needs to change. We live in a world of convenience and we are surrounded by information and conflicting messages about health everywhere we look, so it’s easy to see why change has become so difficult

and confusing. As a fitness coach and nutritionist, I see this confusion with my clients all the time. The internet and social media are powerful tools for good but they can also create mass confusion and often misguide people when it comes to health and nutrition. Danish researchers Vincent F Hendricks and Pelle G Hansen have given this chaotic process a name – an “information storm”, or “infostorm”. We are simply overloaded and confused with all this information. And, if this ‘infostorm’ wasn’t enough, the pace of life in the 21st century can easily overwhelm us making it even more difficult to find the time to simply be ‘healthy’. You may have a stressful and demanding job, targets to hit, bills to pay, young kids to look after, and in the midst of all this you are bombarded by all this information. Sometimes we are so consumed by everything we don’t even see the warning signals telling us we have to change or we’re too busy and we simply ignore them until tomorrow but tomorrow is always just another day away. With all this information at our fingertips our health is declining and we’re too busy to take notice. People are living longer due to medical advances but at what cost? Sometimes with significant quality of life consequences. We see a large increase in people with Metabolic Syndrome. This is defined as a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes but we are now seeing it in younger people and that’s a worry. Child obesity and type 2 diabetes are on the rise, even on the Isle of Man. An unhealthy lifestyle also increases your risk of other serious illnesses such as cancer (e.g. bowel cancer) and can worsen mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression. If this trend continues, what will the future health of our Island look like? You’d be forgiven for thinking this is a sad story but the power to create a ‘NEW’ version of ourselves is within us all. Sometimes we just need a little help finding our way, so in future publications of the Gallery I’m going to give you some tools to help you navigate all this confusion and make better health choices for you and your family.

Martin Malone From Simply Nutrition & Coaching Personal Trainer and Sports Nutritionist

I’ll finish with a famous quote from Hippocrates, the father of medicine

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food”

Simply Nutrition & Coaching Personal Trainer and Sports Nutritionist IG handle @simplynutrition.im Email simplynutrition.im@outlook.com

BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

ACTIVE

4 HEALTH & WELLBEING

STEPS TO SELF WORTH

Ever felt trapped in an overwhelming cycle of exhaustion; fretting that you aren’t doing enough or being enough? If you feel like you have to constantly prove yourself, you are enforcing the belief that you, somehow, have less value than others; that you don’t deserve balance, rest or a connection with enjoyment, that you are only the sum of what you do. Wouldn’t it be nicer to be your own cheerleader and possess real self worth instead of living in a state of ‘undeserving,’ always judging and berating yourself while trying to prove your worth? Here are some ways to help you switch off that unrealistic internal voice that’s holding you back.

1, YOU DO DESERVE IT Anna Mathur reminds us in her book, ‘Know Your Worth,’ that we are all born with a sense of worth. As children, we, ‘expect to be looked after and treated well, but with age you become aware that the world and its people treated you in different ways, wanting different things for you and from you.’ Her goal is to help us undo all those things we tell ourselves about how we are not enough; to get back to the core and discover that we are definitely, ‘worthy of good things.’ She believes that our worth has never changed but our awareness of it did. DO IT: Acknowledge that your self-worth is actually a necessity not an indulgence, it’s a vital part of you that has to be looked after in the same way you look after your physical health. Try to eliminate thought patterns that say, I don’t deserve that job or, ‘my worth is based on what I do for others.’ Stop yourself from saying, ‘gimme a minute,’ when you know you really need an hour. Make time to meet a friend for lunch instead of a rushed coffee, and diminish the idea that resting is inefficient, because ultimately, ‘a strong sense of self-worth is crucial to living an authentic and fulfilling life.’ 2, BE A FRIEND TO YOURSELF John Niland (author of, ‘The Self Worth Safari’) believes that self worth is having ‘an unconditional friendship with ourselves.’ He says that, ‘we might as well be friends because, no matter where we go, we take ourselves with us.’ Being loyal to ourselves means, ‘staying on your own side, even when (perhaps especially when) you are disappointing yourself and not living up to your own expectations.’ Having the ability to self comfort rather than punish when you’re annoyed with yourself, because, living a life in a permanent state of self assessment is exhausting and constantly blaming yourself for who you are, or are not, has a ‘destructive effect.’

DO IT: To achieve this unconditional relationship with ourselves we have to be honest, by accepting the reality of a situation and ditching the self reproach. John says we should ask ourselves the hard questions; ‘Do I choose to think constructively about myself, or am I stuck in a poisonous, bitter, or melancholic narrative? Do I take responsibility for my life or am I blaming society or my upbringing? Do I accept myself as I am without changing my life or appearance? We could start by ditching unrealistic pressures related to work, relationships or appearance and any other sticks we like to beat ourselves with! 3, THE SEVEN SHIFTS John believes that the journey from a mindset of self esteem to self worth can be achieved through a series of seven shifts, which can be practised in most areas of life. So how do we get to the point of seeing self worth as a ‘declaration and not an evaluation?’ Can we break the habit of selfassessment? DO IT: It requires practice and persistence but some of the shifts include: From assessing to asserting: When a critical thought pops into our head about our performance, take a sip of water, voice a mantra or stand up and sit down again. Do something which breaks the habit in the form of a new action. From self reproach to self acceptance: Learning to accept that e.g. our body is simply not the shape we want it to be and no amount of dieting or punishment will make it that way. From ‘should’ to ‘could’: Get into the habit of cutting out the words: ‘should, must and need to.’ 4.LET DOWN YOUR WALLS Anna also challenges our thinking, reminding us that our needs, feelings and opinions are just as valid as anyone elses, but if we keep trying to fit in with everyone else, people pleasing, keeping parts of our personalities back in case others don’t like them then we will end up in a lonely place, where, ‘the only person who truly knows you is you.’ DO IT: Experiment with showing your vulnerability by picking one or two trusted people to confide in. If someone asks how you are, you could tell them the truth rather than just say you’re fine. Try to stop ignoring yourself to please others, maybe some of your friends have no idea that you hate eating dinner late, because you never thought to tell them! Anna believes that, ‘showing and sharing your inner self to someone is a choice,’ that will impact your self esteem and your future.

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Lyph Lab is a nutrition and wellness brand based in the Isle of Man. We focus on providing our clientele with the tools they need to be their best selves, by incorporating science and nature into their goals. Our coaching and advice are rooted in research enabling us to craft evidence based bespoke solutions. After all, your health goals are unique to you; the steps you take should be too. With a firm background in Scientific Research, Lyph Lab’s programme lead, Haafizah HoosenCharles is qualified in Biomedical Sciences (BSc), Nutritional Therapy and Female Health. This ensures that our nutritional services and physical health tests are conducted with the correct care and expertise. With research and teaching experience in infectious diseases, cosmetic & pharmaceutical sciences Lyph Lab’s self care product range has blossomed through an

understanding that self care extends beyond weight loss. At Lyph Lab we pride ourselves on being able to simplify the science. So you can rest assured that each step taken in your journey to becoming the best version of yourself is understood and fits into any schedule. What makes us different? In addition to offering the traditional nutritional services such as delicious recipes that are high in nutritional value, support services; we strongly believe in providing you with what your body needs. Our physical health tests via NHS approved labs allow us to inform you on exactly what’s going on in your body. Whether you’re curious about the vitamins and minerals you require, stress or hormone levels, we’ll be able to use the evidence at hand to provide you answers.

BRAINWAVES … IT’S ALL IN THE WAY YOU THINK. ‘If your mind can conceive it, and your heart can believe it, you can achieve it.’ - Jesse Jackson

ACTIVE

alignment and incorporate breathing as a natural part of the whole stroke. Being at one with the water is achieved through understanding how to work with it. This way pupils discover the joy of being in it. To have a sense of calm and happiness. Mindfulness swimming rather than how

Our clients are important to us, and we respect your schedules which is why you have the option of either booking a session with us or ordering the testing kit to your door - All it takes is a simple cheek swab or finger prick. No more guesswork or taking unnecessary vitamins. No more wasted time. For further information and to keep up to date on our offerings, find us on instagram and facebook Suite 4, Well Road House, Market St, Douglas T: 07624 265675 F: lyphlab www.lyphlab.com

many laps you need to do, because let’s face it the more enjoyable something is the more you will do anyway. The first session at Brainwaves is free, and from that we will develop a bespoke programme that is right for you.

Brainwaves has been changing lives by building confidence in the water for over 20 years. We recently spoke with ..... who said: It is a privilege to be able to work with people who want to develop in the water at whatever level they are at. As well as performance athletes seeking to exploit the gains that improvement in technique and focus bring, I work with everyone including those that are learning from scratch. I fell in love with water when I was seven. On dipping under the water I felt that I had come home, feeling the water wrapping itself around me so comfortable, natural and wonderful. Enveloping me like an old favourite jumper. This is the reason I have chosen the Alexander Shaw method of teaching which encourages pupils to be part of the water, to develop good body BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

If you would like to find out more please contact us on 01624 853021 W: www.brainwavescoaching.com | F: brainwavescoaching.

ACTIVE

TOP 10 TENNIS TOURNAMENTS YOU SHOULD ATTEND AT LEAST ONCE RL360 is sponsoring Douglas Lawn Tennis Club to help the development of tennis players on the Isle of Man. Tennis is a fantastic sport to play but it’s also one of the most exciting to watch and its tournaments are some of the hottest sporting tickets on the planet. At the highest level, thousands will flock to see the world’s greatest players compete live on the biggest stages. While the pandemic disrupted the 2020 season, some major competitions will finally take place this year and with this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of 10 tennis tournaments you should attend at least once in your life.

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ACTIVE

1. Wimbledon

Where else to start but with the most prestigious tennis tournament of all: Wimbledon. Of the 4 Grand Slam tournaments, Wimbledon attracts the most attention and remains the favourite of fans and professional tennis players alike. The tournament has a long and illustrious history dating back to 1877, when it was played on the grand lawns of the All England club outside of London. Besides world-class tennis, Wimbledon is also infamous for Royal appearances, celebrity spotting, fresh strawberries and cream and the famous all-white dress code.

2. US Open

The US Open is a continuation of one of the oldest tennis championships in the world: the US National Championship, which was first played in 1881 as a national men’s singles and doubles competition. Like most major tennis championships, the US Open is as much a media circus and tourist attraction as it is a sporting event, but it’s also as close as tennis comes to a festival. There’s live music to open and then throughout spectators have ready access to a host of street-food stalls, shops and bars.

3. Australian Open

Nicknamed the Happy Slam, the Australian Open is a favourite among some of the world’s best players – and not just for Melbourne’s beautiful beaches and endless supply of sushi rolls. It’s here that the world has seen some of best matches, including Novak Djokovic, who has won a record 7 Australian Open titles. Melbourne Park precinct is currently the home of the Australian Open but this hasn’t always been the case with the tournament having been played at more than a dozen other sites in its 114-year history - including Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth and New Zealand.

4. French Open

The French Open is one of the most feared tournaments among top players. Roland Garros is famously the only Grand Slam tournament to be played on clay courts, a surface that slows the players and makes for gruelling and fierce matches. Many legendary players have been unable to win the career slam because of a failure to triumph at the French Open - even the great Roger Federer has only 1 win under his belt. The defending champion at the French Open is Rafael Nadal, who has won the tournament 13 times.

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7. WTA Finals

5. Summer Olympic Games Tennis Tournament

Held in China, the year-end finale of the WTA Tour is a prestigious tournament for the top-ranked professional women’s players. It’s also one of the toughest competitions because the WTA Finals takes place at the end of the season in late October - when players have been pushed to their mental and physical limit. In spite of this, the WTA Finals see some of the best games of the season, not least of which because players are competing for a recordbreaking $4.725 million first-prize cheque - the richest title in tennis.

The Summer Games is unique among tennis tournaments because spectators can enjoy many other sporting competitions at this one incredible event. Tennis was dropped from the Summer Games in 1924 but it was later returned to the Olympic programme in 1988 and since then the tournament has only grown in importance among players and fans alike. The 9-day tournament sees intense competition between players competing for national pride, and when spectators aren’t checking out tennis, they can watch some of the world’s best athletes compete in 33 other sports.

8. ATP Finals

6. The Davis Cup

9. BNP Paribas – Indian Wells Tennis Masters

The Davis Cup started out as a men’s competition between USA and Great Britain but it has become the world’s largest annual international team competition – effectively the World Cup of men’s tennis. Great Britain’s men have lifted the trophy 10 times since the tournament began in 1900, most recently in 2015 when Andy Murray finally broke that 79-year wait for the trophy to come home. In contrast to the polite audiences of most tennis events, this is an unashamedly partisan event, with flag waving and raucous cheering for the home team, creating an intense and intimidating atmosphere. The experience is unique in the sport.

The ATP Finals is the second highest tier of tennis after the Grand Slam tournaments, where the best players compete for the coveted year-end title. The tournament moves around historically and has been played in over 15 cities worldwide. After spending the last 12 years in London, this year the finals will move to Turin. This signals the end of an era for London but also professional tennis, as the move coincides with the approaching retirement of juggernaut players who have dominated the sport since 2004: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray.

BNP Paribas is one of the biggest events outside of the Grand Slam’s and end of year Tour Finals. The tournament takes place against the backdrop of sunny California so it’s little wonder it’s known as a ‘Tennis Paradise’. Every year over 400,000 fans flock to the tournament to soak up all this a stunning tourist destination has to offer - including luxury resorts, high-end shopping, dining and spas and (for a bit of variety) some world-class golf.

10. Miami Open

As you might have gathered, tennis has one of the longest histories of any modern sport. It’s unusual then for modern tournaments to make a name for themselves but the Miami Open, (which only began in 1985) is undoubtedly the place to be in the Spring. Attendance at its Hard Rock Stadium in Crandon Park has topped 300,000 people in the past - which is almost unheard of for a non-Majors tournament. The Miami Open however has a lot to offer and even if visitors get tired of watching rallies there’s plenty else to do when you’re surrounded by beautiful beaches, fabulous food and stunning golf courses.

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GADGETS

SET ME FREE! (Responsibly) BALMUDA TOASTER

Despite global economic doom and gloom, the decline of many industries and barely being allowed to go outdoors, the property market in Jersey has remained a law unto its own by remaining as buoyant as ever, somehow, so if you’ve moved house recently and have a couple of hundred quid spare for a new toaster (you never know what you might find down the side of the sofa as the removals people whip the cushions off), then read on.

We’re finally a (bit more) free! Restrictions are easing, we’ve been able to enjoy the company of nine others for the purpose of playing woodwind instruments indoors for a while now (yes, our chief minister actually used that sentence during a press conference - much to the relief of the majority of islanders, no doubt) and by the time this magazine has landed in your hands we’ll all be allowed to go to the pub without having to pretend we always drag our meals out to last exactly two and a half hours. Not everyone will be so keen to get outdoors and within close proximity of other human beings from outside their household though, so this month we’ve tried to provide a mix of gadgets for both the sheltering and the sociable. No dancing though, and step away from the bar please - it’s table service only.

Japanese brand Balmuda claim that their toaster - which is more akin to a toaster-oven, renowned for drying up your doughy-delights - will keep the inside of your toasted treats pillowy and light while ensuring the exterior is perfectly crisp and ‘the colour of a fox’ according to a Japanese translation of the instruction manual I read online. This is thanks to the addition of steam into the mix and alternating heating elements above and below the rack. There are even settings for cheese on toast and croissants, the latter of which is apparently also excellent for reheating last night’s pizza when you’re a bit on the hung over side. Is it a bit extravagant to source a toaster from Japan or Korea (the only markets where it’s available)? Possibly. But do you really, really enjoy toasted bread products? This is a call that only you can make.

AVAILABLE FROM BALMUDA SUPPLIERS IN JAPAN AND KOREA FOR APPROXIMATELY £200 | BALMUDA.COM

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VAONIS VESPERA SMART OBSERVATION STATION

If you often find yourself staring at the night sky musing over whether other intelligent life exists out there, and if so whether they’ve ever had to stay indoors, wash their hands / tentacles more frequently and resist the urge to touch any of their eyes / mouths (however many they have) for an extended period of time, now you can both explore and document the experience in the form of ‘ultra HD’ imagery thanks to Vaonis’ smart observation station. Meet Vespera. Controlled via a companion app, which also provides you with educational content as you gaze out into the universe, Vespera is clever and powerful enough to allow stargazing anywhere, regardless of the surrounding light pollution. It’s relatively compact in terms of telescopes, too, and looks incredibly sleek. No longer do you have to labour over positioning and focusing your lens in exactly the right position or spend a lifetime rigging a camera to your telescope - this clever device can not only find the celestial objects that you want to view but also capture and immortalise them in photographic form. As with most cutting-edge gadgets, it isn’t quite available yet, but is due to launch in 2022. And yes, that was a space exploration pun. You’re welcome.

PRICED AT AROUND $1,499 VISIT VAONIS.COM/VESPERA

SAY HELLO TO SWITCH-BOT

Whether you’ve become almost too comfortable sat at home and have nearly managed to ‘complete’ Netflix (good luck with the boss level, see if you can get away without being fired in light of the sixteen hour per day bingefests) or have been out making the most of that excessive drinking in public without food while maintaining a safe and socially-respectable distance from others and find yourself being a little bit fuzzy and incapable of drawing or opening the curtains or flicking switches on and off, SwitchBot has you covered. Almost any traditional ‘dumb’ appliance can be converted into an IoT connected smart appliance thanks to their nifty little inventions. The original SwitchBot attaches to rocker switches without the need for tools and can be used to both push for ‘on’ or pull for ‘off’. It’s a compact and straightforward alternative to mounting modules inside your plugs and light switches. The jewel in their crown of mechanical marvels, though, is the curtain bot. Simply attach it to your curtain rails and then command they open or close via your smart speaker or mobile device and away they go. Can’t see the telly? Want to hide your hung over pain from the outside world? Alexa, close the lounge curtains. Ah, dark, eye-soothing bliss.

VISIT SWITCH-BOT.COM

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GADGET OF THE MONTH – SAMSUNG S21

ICONIC NEW LOOK FOR SAMSUNG’S HIGH PERFORMING GALAXY S21 Samsung has long been one of the most credible names in the Android market, with phones packed full of high quality features. The S21, launched in January and the latest in the coveted Galaxy range, is no exception and comes with a sleek new design to catch the eye too. Introducing its “Contour Cut” camera housing, Samsung has developed an iconic new camera design, made to turn heads, along with real metal finishes that add a touch of luxury and set this phone apart from its predecessors. As to the cameras themselves, the S21 includes an impressive 12MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide, and 64MP telephoto so you can be sure of excellent photos, even in poor light. With a hybrid optical zoom and enhanced super resolution you can zoom up to 30x with clarity and precision, using

the new zoom lock feature as an extra aid to help stabilise your shots. Video quality is outstanding with 8K resolution - cinematic quality – as well as 4K and Full HD. Samsung has even introduced a funky new “Director’s View” mode that allows you to shoot from both the front and rear cameras at the same time - a great feature for all the vloggers out there! The S21 comes with a big battery that will power you through the day and it will also learn how to optimise battery consumption based on your individual usage. It boasts fast charging and wireless charging capabilities and the 120Hz screen refresh rate allows for super smooth scrolling and highly enjoyable mobile gaming. With great performance all round, the

Galaxy S21 is the major Android rival to the iPhone 12 and with more storage and a third camera, the S21 will beat the iPhone hands down for many users.

Paired with our Smart 15GB package offering 15GB of data, unlimited SMS, unlimited voice, 1GB roaming data (UK & EU), 50 roaming texts (UK & EU) and 50 roaming minutes (UK & EU), the Galaxy S21 can be yours for just £57 per month over 24 months.

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Purchase

your next car with Bitcoin at SkillanNaylor Car Company Cryptocurrency has enjoyed a stratospheric year: investment banks and institutional investors have jumped on the digitalcurrency-bandwagon, and the likes of Tesla and Microsoft have challenged the status quo and become early adopters of Bitcoin and its counterparts. But when can we expect to see digital currency as an acceptable form of payment on the Isle of Man’s high street? Probably much sooner than you think. SkillanNaylor, the Ballafletcher Business Park-based car dealership, has become one of the first automotive dealers on Island to accept Bitcoin as a form of payment. They

join the ranks of the army of businesses that have welcomed digital currency payments through CoinCorner’s Checkout. Simon Skillan, Co-Director of SkillanNaylor, said: “The automotive landscape – just like many other industries – changes very quickly: if you don’t move with it, you can get left behind. How a car dealer accepts payment for a vehicle is an integral part of the car buying process. “At SkillanNaylor, we always adopt the ‘no problem’ approach. Rather than look for ways not to do things, we try to provide solutions that facilitate the seamless transaction of buying a car.”

“Bitcoin is the world’s leading cryptocurrency, launched in 2009, it attracted global attention in 2017 as a result of it’s rising value.”

Jonathan Naylor, CoDirector of SkillanNaylor, added: “We were recently approached by a client who wanted to purchase a car from us and pay for it with cryptocurrency. We worked with the client alongside Ben at CoinCorner to facilitate the transaction. “As a result of this first cryptocurrency purchase, we are now very happy to accept ISLE OF MAN PREMIER MAGAZINE

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Bitcoin for full payment of vehicles.” Ben Collins, Business Development Manager at CoinCorner, commented: “It’s been great to work with and support Simon, Jonathan and the team at SkillanNaylor in accepting Bitcoin payments from their clients via CoinCorner Checkout. “The news marks significant progress for both CoinCorner and SkillanNaylor, showing recognition for Bitcoin as an alternative way of paying for traditional services and further positioning SkillanNaylor as a leader in their sector, continuously adapting to meet the needs of modern customers.” CoinCorner has made considerable strides in building trust in the Bitcoin industry and has fast cemented itself as one of the leading British-based Bitcoin exchanges. Bitcoin is the world’s leading cryptocurrency. Having launched in 2009, it attracted global attention in 2017 as a result of its rising value, and has fast become a popular payment option and, indeed, a household name.

traditionally take a matter of business days can be fired across in less time than it takes to boil the kettle.

While governments worldwide continue to print physical money to keep economies ticking, Bitcoin supporters believe the coin’s scarcity is a safeguard against inflation. There will only ever be 21 million Bitcoins in existence (compared to physical money, whose production is relentless), and having “As a result of this a limited number of coins first cryptocurrency in circulation means, in theory, that these coins purchase, we are will have a higher value, now very happy to accept Bitcoin for full hence Bitcoin earning the moniker “digital gold”.

But despite Bitcoin permeating our collective psyche, very few people understand the intricacies of cryptocurrency and its distributor database, blockchain. Bitcoin is a form of decentralised digital cash. Decentalised means that no central authority controls it - e.g. a central bank instead, it is controlled by the users.

payment of vehicles.”

Created in 2009, Bitcoin was presented as an alternative financial system after the economic crisis, and one factor that increases its desirability is its ability to be sent anywhere in the world without passing through a bank or third party. This means it incurs very little in the way of cross-border or currency conversion fees. Similarly, large transactions that would BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

With numerous platforms launching and receiving funding to make crypto investing possible, cryptocurrency is becoming more accessible to the public. Retail investors will undoubtedly want a share of the asset class, resulting in more and more high street retailers accepting digital currencies as a form of payment, much sooner than we think.

SkillanNaylor Car Company www.sncc.im CoinCorner www.coincorner.com

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MANX MOTORSPORTS IN-PHOTOS

Photos & Words by Lucas Croydon

Mx The Isle of Man is quite fortunate to have a number of Motorcross Tracks all offering something different for the riders. Knock Froy is more compact and stoney (typically what you’d expect a motocross track to be like) whilst Ballagaraghan & West Kimmeragh is more sandy and loose. At the time of writing this the Championship has only just started so these images have been from the practice days at Knock Froy & Ballagaraghan.

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Rally After Jurby Manx Motors Stages was cancelled due to C-19 Lockdown 2 in February it was rearranged for May. Where 36 local cars took to the 10 stages around the airfield. For some this was the first rally in over a year whilst a few others competed in the two Jurby Stages last year. Steve Colley and Kirsty Duke took the victory at the of Stage 10 but there was close action throughout the field. Hopefully Pokerstars will go ahead later this year where we will see Rallying return to Manx lanes welcoming off island entries. Other events have taken place on Island in recent weeks with Karting, Enduro’s Trials & Stockcars all restarting again. BECAUSE QUALITY MATTERS

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Supermotos Over on the short Jurby Circuit there has been a number of ‘Test Days’ due to the current organisers of the racing up there stepping down. That said from few test days that have taken place for the four bike classes. A number of the riders have posted new personal bests. Hopefully we will see competitive racing for all classes resuming up there soon, where I’m sure there will be plenty of fighting for track space and smashing more PB’s.

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PAPARAZZI 1886 DIANE’S 40TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

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June/July 2021 the NEW issue

Articles inside

Conister Bank’s Clara Isaac is Turning Our

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What’s On