The 20th anniversary Manx Telecom End2End Mountain Bike Challenge begins earlier than normal at 9.30am on Sunday.

The first 100 seeded riders will be followed five minutes later by the next batch of 200, then a third similar-sized group at another five minutes. A final group of around 350 will start at 9.45 to spread the field of around 850 riders out.

In addition, there are 25 juniors and a dozen adults completing the half-distance event from St John’s to Port Erin, starting at 11.45pm.

There is also a competition for teams of four riders over different sections of the course.

Topping the list of competitors are 2014-15 winner Ben Thomas of Windlesham who rides for the Mountain Trax/Vauxhall team (No.1), leading under-23 Nick Corlett (2), multiple former winner Elliot Baxter (3), Dan Curtis (4), Simon Skillicorn (5), Steven Franklin (6) and Robin Garry (7).

Other notables include under-23 Conor Davies (8), Mountain Trax rider Scott McCarron (18) and veteran roadie Andrew Roche (77) in his first event of the year.

For a rough guide, leading riders in the main 46-mile event should be at Bride village around 9.40am, Ballaugh Cronk 10am, Brandywell 10.40am, Ballacraine/St John’s 11.15am, Eairy Cushlin 11.55am and Port Erin 12.30pm.

Riders need to attend either of the two signing on sessions at Douglas Bay Yacht Club this evening (Friday) or Saturday to register and collect race number, t-shirt and parking permit.

The venue, situated at the ‘Tongue’ in Douglas harbour, is sign-posted from the Sea Terminal and will be open at the following times: Friday 5-7pm, Saturday 4-7pm.

Full reports and pictures in next week’s Isle of Man Examiner and Manx Independent.

All eyes will be on Castletown in JCK Division Two this weekend to see how they bounce back from last Saturday’s hammering at the hands of Braddan.

Despite Town taking the lead, they were reduce to 10 men and the Swan ran riot by running out 11-1 winners in the top-of-the-table clash.

While leaders Braddan enjoy a week off, Town will be hoping to bounce back when they travel to Crosby to take on a Marown side which has overcome a slow start to the season by recording back-to-back 2-1 victories.

Arguably the game of the day in the second division takes place at Ballafletcher where Douglas Royal host Pulrose United. In what is sure to be a fiercly competitive contest, both sides harbour ambitions of challenging for honours this season and, while Royal currently lie three points ahead of Pully in third, a close game should be in store.

With Braddan not playing this weekend, Foxdale could go top of Division Two should they get the better of Onchan at the Nivison Stadium. The visitors will be favourites to win but, as their defeat to Douglas and District recently shows, they can ill afford to take anyone lightly.

D&D face another tough match when they welcome RYCOB to Noble’s Park but, buoyed by that impressive win over Foxdale, they could cause the northerners several problems. Elsewhere in the second division, managerless Gymns travel south to take on second-from-bottom Malew, while Michael United and Governor’s Athletic face up at Balleira Road.

A host of speakers from the UK media industry will be attending a conference in the island to promote investment and interest in the Isle of Man.

The conference is to be held on September 14 at the Isle of Man Motor Museum at Jurby, where the speakers will be welcomed by the Department of Economic Development and other members of industry.

Speakers and advisors representing the financial sector will include people from SPARK Impact, managers of the government’s £50 million Enterprise Development Scheme.

Department of Economic Development Minister and Rushen Keys candidate Laurence Skelly said: ‘The Isle of Man has built a reputation as a test bed for new and innovative technology. Our strong infrastructure and telecoms systems, alongside our support for new and expanding businesses, have seen the island draw interest from a range of technlogy sectors and companies.

‘Attracting future investment to the island is at the core of the work of the department and we will continue to support our colleagues in industry as these exciting developments unfold.’

Dr Richard Arning,vice president of business development at SES Satellite Leasing, the event’s principal sponsor, said his company had invested in a sophisticated ‘teleport’ (a device which links satellites to ground-based communications).

‘I have been encouraged by the help we have had from the Isle of Man and anticipate that the new teleport will bring benefits to a number of local companies which provide additional ancillary activities,’ he said.

The government’s broadcast media advisor Stuart Semark said: ‘We are delighted to support this event which marks the next stage of developing broadcast media opportunities in the Isle of Man. The bringing together of some of the most respected people in the UK broadcasting industry with established media companies on the island and potential business investors gives us the opportunity to establish the Isle of Man as an international business centre for broadcast media companies.’

The other candidates standing in Rushen are Leo Cussons, James Hampton, Mark Kemp and Juan Watterson.

The latest Isle of Man Newspapers’ Team of the Week has a distinct attacking feel to it, with the line-up boasting no fewer than 15 goals from the weekend’s games.

Saturday’s action in the Canada Life Premier League featured a plethora of high-scoring contests across the fixture list, with only three sides managing to keep clean sheets and all but two games witnessing five or more goals.

Claiming the coveted goalkeeper gloves for the latest Team of the Week is Union Mills’ reigning Isle of Man Newspapers Goalkeeper of the Year Christian Cellamare.

The Mills shot-stopper’s career continues to enjoy an Indian summer and, having already earned a TotW call-up this season, did so again thanks to an impressive display for the Garey Mooar side at home to Peel.

While the westerners won the game 2-0, Cellamare pulled over several superb saves to frustrate the Sunset City side and thus impressed Eric Clague’s ratings panel.

Lining up in a three-man defence in front of the veteran keeper are two familiar faces plus one newcomer to Team of the Week.

Peel’s Dominic McGreevy and St George’s Sean Quaye have featured in TotW many times over the years and were once again to the fore during their sides’ respective wins over Union Mills and DHSOB.

McGreevy helped the Sunset City keep a clean sheet against a brave Union Mills side, while Quaye had an eventful game at Glencrutchery Road, grabbing a goal against Old Boys before collecting a second yellow card late on as the Saints ended with 10-men.

Joining them in the back three this week for the first time is new Douglas Athletic signing William Penhallurick who shone for the Pinks in the heart of their defence, marshalling his side’s backline well on their way to keeping a clean sheet against fellow promoted side Colby.

The Team of the Week’s three-man midfield helped themselves to five goals during the weekend’s fixtures, with two of them grabbing braces.

Matty Skillicorn was one of Laxey’s star players as the Miners thrashed Ayre United 14-2 in Andreas, scoring twice in an impressive display against the Tangerines to earn his first call-up of the season.

The other player to bag a brace was St George’s attacker Sam Caine who is enjoying an excellent start to the season, leading the line well in the continued absence of Calum Morrissey and Ciaran McNulty and thus earning his second TotW appearance of the campaign.

Joining the hypothetical line-up for the first time this season is Josh Ridings who starred for Corinthians once again, grabbing a goal in the Whites’ 4-2 victory at home to St John’s.

The attacking line-up is completed by a formidable-looking striking quartet which bagged no fewer than nine goals between them on Saturday.

Leading the way was Sean Gavin who stole the show for Laxey, tormenting Ayre United throughout and helping himself to a four-goal haul in ruthless fashion.

As such, he earns his first Team of the Week appearance of the season.

Slotting in alongside him and likewise donning the TotW colours for the first time this campaign are Darren Shields and Stephen Glover, whileDarren Hudgeon earns a second call-up.

Shields produced a man-of-the-match performance for Douglas Athletic as his well-taken opening goal set the Pinks on their way to claim a crucial 2-0 win at Colby. Hudgeon and Glover both impressed in front of goal on Saturday, each bagging a brace as they put Ramsey to the sword in a 5-0 win at the Bowl.

Claiming the refereeing honours is Neshko Marinov who starred with the whistle during the Union Mills v Peel match at Garey Mooar.

Team of the Week

Goalkeeper

Christian Cellamare (Union Mills)

Team of the week apps: 2

Defence

Dominic McGreevy (Peel)TotW apps: 1

Sean Quaye (St George’s) TotW apps: 1

Will Penhallurick (Douglas Athletic) TotW apps: 1

Midfield

Sam Caine (St George’s)TotW apps: 2

Matty Skillicorn (Laxey) TotW apps: 1

Josh Ridings (Corinthins) TotW apps: 1

Attack

Darren Hudgeon (St Mary’s) TotW apps: 2

Darren Shields (D. Athletic) TotW apps: 1

Sean Gavin (Laxey) TotW apps: 1

Stephen Glover (St Mary’s) TotW apps: 1

Referee

Neshko Marinov

(Union Mills v Peel)

Regular competitor Shelley Pike was the 2016 winner of the John Goodall Spirit of the Manx award.

Shelley, who is 44 and comes from Colerne in Wiltshire, has been a regular Manx Grand Prix competitor since 2008, riding a Honda RVF400.

She won a replica in the 2015 Lightweight race and another this year, which she received, along with the Spirit of the Manx trophy, at the awards ceremony held at the Villa Marina in Douglas.

Jim Hunter, of the Manx Grand Prix Riders’ Association, said: ‘What we like about Shelley is the way she quietly goes about her business and just gets on with it. She’s ridden at the MGP for a good number of years now, making continued steady progress. Clearly she is a dedicated competitor who epitomises in so many ways what the MGP is all about.’

The Spirit of the Manx award is given by the Manx Grand Prix Riders’ Association to the competitor who is not necessarily at the top of the field but who shows good sportsmanship, enthusiasm and support for the event.

Membership of the Association is open to anyone who has qualified and started in a Manx Grand Prix race. The award has been presented since 2005. In 2008 it was presented to the late John Goodall who had competed every year in the Manx Grand Prix classic races since they were started by the Manx Motor Cycle Club in 1983. The award was later named in his memory.

Shelley is one of just three women who were competing in the Manx Grand Prix this year, the others being Ally Foster and Sarah Boyes. Last year’s award went to Ian Pert, a youth worker from Scotland who brings youngsters to the event.

John Fulton will make a bit of history when he takes to the startline of Sunday’s Manx Telecom End2End Challenge.

It is believed the 32-year-old from Douglas will be the first person with one leg to tackle the annual event.

John, who will wear his a prosthetic leg for the event, has been given special dispensation by the organisers to use an electric mountain bike: ‘Usually eBikes are not allowed but, as I have one leg, the organisers are letting me take part.

‘As far as I am aware I will be the first one-legged rider to take part and hopefully finish in a half-decent time.

‘I am doing the race on behalf of the Manx Workshop for the Disabled, mainly to raise awareness of it.

‘They actively try to rehabilitate disabled workers back into the workplace by offering them a role at the workshop in whichever area they think they best fit - be it crafts, woodwork or even office work).

‘By doing this the aim is to give disabled workers the confidence to work in a structured environment, with the ultimate aim to get them back into the ‘normal’ working environment.

‘Outdoors Ramsey are also helping me as they have organised for me to borrow a spare battery for my bike from the makers Haibike.

‘Without Outdoor Ramsey’s help and the spare battery I wouldn’t be able to do it at all.’

John has always been a keen cyclist, but it’s only since he got his eBike that he’s been able to consider doing an event like this weekend’s: ‘I’ve been cycling since a very young age but because of the obvious disability I have been restricted to doing the downhill section of rides with my friends.

‘Since I purchased my new bike though it’s given me so much freedom and now I can do all the rides that my friends do and more. I am now always first to the top, which I will never get tired of after years of being the one lagging behind!’

‘Training has been hard but is going well. I’ve been training for the last six months for this on the bike and also on a turbo trainer. I’m on Strava and my times on certain climbs are very competitive so I think I am capable of a sub-five hour time all being well.’

John is number 584.

A service with a difference takes place at St George’s Church in Douglas on Sunday, when worshippers are being invited to take their pets along with them to church.

Providing a boost to the regular congregation, the pets will also be joined by Guide Dogs for the Blind and the MSPCA, which will benefit from any money raised by the venture.

The area’s police dog unit will also be there and will oversee a pet-friendly raffle.

Congregation member Sophia Leonard-Morgan said: ‘We are hoping to get as many people and their pets there as possible.

‘Although it’s something that has been done in the parish before it’s not been done at St George’s before. But we are hoping to do it again if it’s a success.’

Mrs Leonard-Morgan said she expected dogs would be in the majority, at least for this first service, which is being conducted by archdeacon the Venerable Andrew Brown along with the Reverend Alessandra Di Chiara.

She added: ‘I know Andrew has done it before in the UK with snakes draped around his neck and people riding horses into church and all sorts of things.’

Mrs Leonard-Morgan’s King Charles spaniel Betsy and Mrs Di Chiara’s cocker spaniel Chloe have already been press-ganged into action for the service.

Doors for the service open at 2.30pm. The service starts at 3pm and the plan is to serve refreshments at the end of the service at 3.25pm. The raffle by the police dogs’ unit will then take place at 3.40pm.

The service will be short and the raffle includes a range of prizes. including dog grooming and a photo-session. Money raised will be shared among Guide Dogs for the Blind and the MSPCA. There will be a speaker explaining the importance of guide dogs and there will even be some dog biscuits for the canine congregation.

Alan Gough, director of Gough Law, says a proposed update on fraud laws could spark rethink on other legislation

The Isle of Man Government has invited public consultation on proposed legislation to update and clarify the island’s laws against fraud.

The draft Fraud bill is intended to provide the island with modern sophisticated and flexible provisions against fraud.

At present fraud is contained within the Theft Act 1981, which is based on 1968 UK legislation. The UK updated its Fraud Act in 2006.

The draft bill establishes a general offence of fraud and identifies three ways in which it may be committed; fraud by false representation, fraud by failing to disclose information and fraud by abuse of position.

There are also new offences created – obtaining services dishonestly and possessing, making and supplying articles for use in frauds.

There is a new offence of participating in fraudulent business. This offence would mirror the existing corporate offence of fraudulent trading but extended to sole traders also.

The Bill attempts to update law passed by Tynwald in 1981 but it remains to be seen if the new offences are up to tackling internet fraud, which is rampant and becoming more sophisticated.

The public may be interested to know that our criminal law as it is still applied has its roots in statute far earlier than 1981 and Tynwald may consider that other areas of criminal law require updating in due course.

The best examples are contained within the Criminal Code 1892.

Perhaps one of the most serious of the 19th century offences is ‘compassing the death of the Sovereign’.

This makes it treasonable ‘feloniously and traitorously to compass or imagine the death of the King or Queen for the time being in possession of the crown of the realm’.

Furthermore, an offence would be committed if the act was directed towards the consort of the King or Queen or the death of the eldest child, being heir apparent to the crown. The second eldest child is clearly left to fend for his or herself.

A further treasonably offence is violating the female heir to the crown.

The offence would be committed by anyone who ‘violates the eldest or only daughter of the King or Queen before such daughter shall have been married’.

Once married though it seems the perpetrator would have a defence.

The new Lieutenant Governor will be comforted to know that it is also a treasonable offence to slay him.

The penalty for these egregious acts is life imprisonment.

Other offences which are still on the statute book and have survived since 1892 include impeding a person endeavouring to save himself from shipwreck; neglecting to provide wife, children, apprentices or servants with food; obstructing or assaulting a clergyman or other minister in the discharge of his duties; challenging to fight a duel and placing wood on a railway line.

There is a good deal in the old Act protecting railways which, of course, were more used then than they are now.

For bird-lovers it will be a relief to know that it is an offence to kill pigeons.

More importantly it is an offence to convey in any carriage the carcass of a sheep, unless the skin, wool and ears are carried along with it.

Strangely this offence has not troubled the criminal courts too much in recent times.

Dougie Lampkin is in the island this week preparing for his TT Course wheelie attempt on Saturday, September 24.

One of the biggest names of all-time in world trials has agreed to put on a free practice day for Isle of Man Youth Trials Club members this Saturday at Dhoon Quarry, with the support of one of his main sponsors Red Bull.

Thirty young riders between the ages of four and 15 have signed up for the session and are really looking forward to spending some time with such a legend of the sport.

It takes place between 8.30am and 2pm. There will be three, one-hour long sessions, 9-10am, 10.30-11.30am and midday to 1pm. The more advanced riders will be in the final session. These will be followed by a photo and autograph session.

The wheelie attempt on Sept 24 will be on partially closed roads from 5pm.

People who want to find out more about cancer will have the chance next week when a special van pays the island a visit.

Experts will educate people about the symptoms of cancer, how to reduce their risk of developing cancer and how to self-examine your breasts/testicles? Are you eligible for screening?

The ‘i-Van’ will be in the island from Tuesday to Thursday. It’s is a vehicle from the Bridgewater Community Healthcare NHS Trust that has a range of information materials, and with two trained staff members who can help to answer any questions you may have relating the signs and symptoms of cancer, or cancer screening.

It also has a private area where people can discuss any concerns in confidence.

The i-Van will be in the following locations:

The Isle of Man College Car Park, on Tuesday, from 8am – 3pm

Ramsey Shoprite car park, on Wednesday, from 9.30am – 1pm

Port Erin Shoprite Car Park, on Wednesday, from 2pm – 6pm

Douglas Town Centre, Granville Street, on Thursday, from 10am – 5pm

A spokesman for the Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association said: ‘Early diagnosis is very important when it comes to treating cancer and understanding the various signs and symptoms is essential. The i-Van is all about educating the local community and providing the opportunity to get any questions answered, no matter how big or small.

‘Bringing the i-Van to the island is just part of the work that Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association is doing. It is also involved in various local projects, such as the Staywell Clinic (cervical screening) and psycho-oncology service (psychology and counselling specifically for people affected by cancer).’

The Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association also raises money to fund research into cancer, its causes and its treatment; and fund equipment at hospitals in the UK who provide treatment to Manx patients.

The Steam Packet is supporting the i-Van visit.

For more information ring Sandy Denning on 252725 or email IOMAnticancer@gmail.com

Road accident statistics have shown a marked drop compared with last year’s Festival of Motorcycling (FoM), which incorporates the Manx Grand Prix and Classic TT.

A police spokesman has applauded an 18 per cent fall in collision figures compared with the 2015 event.

Inspector Derek Flint said: ‘The remarkable headline, however, is that there were no fatal collisions, and just one collision resulting in serious injury. This involved a single motorcycle on the Sloc Road.

‘The Roads Policing Unit and Road Safety Team have been working incredibly hard to drive down the numbers and I’d say these results are a testament to that.’

But he added it was too early as yet to say if this marked the start of a trend.

‘The indications are certainly there that the safety message is getting through,’ he said.

During last year’s Manx Grand Prix and Classic TT there were four accidents resulting in serious injuries and there was also a head-on collision on the mountain near Black Hut resulting in two deaths.

Earlier this year coroner John Needham recorded an accident verdict on Lewis Clark from Pontefract who was killed after being hit head-on by a visiting German rider who had not returned to his own carriageway after overtaking.

During the course of the inquest, Mr Needham recommended further consideration be given to whether or not a one-way system should be adopted over the Snaefell Mountain Road during the FoM, the same as the system used during the TT.

The court heard it was effective in preventing the serious head-on collisions but could also cause increased traffic on other roads along with an associated increase in more minor accidents there.

Mr Clark’s mother, Beverley, who was in court to witness harrowing footage of her son’s accident later gave her support to it being released on YouTube as a way of driving home the road safety message.

The footage had more than 350,000 hits within the first few days of its release.

Speaking soon after, Mrs Clark said: ‘I want to make bikers aware of what can happen if they don’t give 100 per cent all the time. I realise many of them are well aware of the dangers, but I want them to see the impact of their actions. My young son died in a fireball. No parent should ever have to get that news.’

By comparison, the number of road accidents during TT 2016 was up on last year, with a total of 99 fatal, serious, minor or damage-only collisions on the open roads, compared with 86 in 2015. It was a busy TT for the emergency services and two weeks of prolonged good weather most likely played a part in the increased statistics.

The Glow Gold campaign to raise awareness of children’s cancer has been launched in the Isle of Man.

A golden carousel featuring a tricycle, scooters and bicycle was on display in Regent Street, Douglas. One of the bikes was also tied around the Jubilee Oak tree in Braddan to mark the occasion.

The children’s items represent children of all ages whose childhoods are put on hold while they receive cancer treatments and is a memorial to the babies, children and young people who have lost their lives to the disease.

A number of Manx charities have joined the worldwide campaign.

Fiona Barker of Bridge the Gap has brought together local charities, such as Hospice Isle of Man (including the children’s hospice, Rebecca House), Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association, Manx Cancer Help, Oskar’s Dreams/Remember Jade, The Manx Association for the Welfare of Children in Hospital and The Anthony Nolan Trust.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of childhood cancer, including education on the warning signs to look out for.

Iconic landmarks across the world will be glowing gold during September and in the Isle of Man, the Tower of Refuge, Ramsey Swing Bridge and Pulrose Power Station will be glowing too.

Fiona said: ‘While people often prefer to support on-island charities, the reality is that every child or teen diagnosed with cancer on the Isle of Man will receive treatment off island in UK hospitals and this treatment will be based on research carried out in the UK or further afield.

‘Funds raised on island throughout this campaign will go towards this much needed research.’

Children’s Cancer and Leukemia Group (CCLG) ‘Be Bold Go Gold’ ribbons and wristbands together with awareness cards will be available to buy at Isle Of Man Bank and Barclays Bank branches throughout this month.

For more information go to ‘Glow Gold September IOM – raising childhood cancer awareness’.

Alternatively, email contact@bridgethegap.im or call 801349 or 472845.

The Villa Marina will be a hive of activity later this month when it is the venue for a big beekeepers’ conference.

The Bee Improvement and Bee Breeders’ Association will be returning to the island for the first time since 1973 with a packed programme of lectures - some fascinating and some intriguing - on all matters related to bee keeping.

Organisers are expecting at least 200 people will attend the conference which is open to anyone, costs £95 and includes a semi-formal dinner on the Wednesday night.

Johnny Kipps, of the Isle of Man Beekeepers, said: ‘We have some extremely interesting speakers in our line up and one of our focuses is on improving the genetic pool of the bees generally, which is extremely important.’

For anyone who can’t attend the full conference, other options include paying around £30 to attend for one day or £5 on the door to attend individual lectures.

The 29 sessions of the conference, will include bee genetics, the mating biology of honey bees and a talk intriguingly entitled, ‘Beekeeping - if bees wrote the book’.

‘We are hugely privileged to have experts on this wide variety of topics come to the island; an array of expertise like this isn’t easily assembled,’ Mr Kipps said.

Speakers include Californian bee expert and international speaker Randy Oliver who will deliver four presentations on topics including beekeeping in California and unserstanding varroa – the disease responsible for a huge decline in the bee population but which has not reached the island.

The conference is September 20 to 22.

Places can be pre-booked on the BIBBA website.

Superhuman physical speed or strength are the classic powers of the 20th century superhero. And Brahma Kumaris will help people to find what it takes to be a superhero in daily life. 

Explore how to develope your super powers – soar beyond your limits, find solutions in seconds and create calm in chaos – with Jasu Ladva in an evening talk on Monday, September 12, at 7.30pm at the lecture theatre at Keyll Darree near Noble’s Hospital.

‘All of us have many super powers that lie dormant within us,’ Jasu explained. ‘Sometimes they only show up when we are faced with a big challenge.

‘But we can identify and strengthen our super powers at any time and make sure they are ready in times of need!’ Jasu lives and works at the International Brahma Kumaris Centre in London. For more details and to book visit www.brahmakumaris.org/uk/isleofman or call 626940.

A 56-year-old drink-driver has been fined £1,000 and banned from driving for three years.

Brendan James Clague, of Ballachrink Drive, was also ordered to pay prosecution costs of £125 and medical costs of £94.

Prosecutor Michael Jelski told the court how, on August 30 at 6.19pm, police responded to a report of an accident involving one vehicle at the Creg-ny-Baa back road in Onchan.

When officers arrived at the scene a witness said they had seen Clague riding his moped but weaving until he fell off.

Police spoke to Clague who had waited at the scene and described him as being ‘clearly intoxicated’.

He failed a subsequent roadside breathalyser test and was arrested, making no reply after caution.

At police headquarters Clague took a further test which resulted in a reading of 92 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres - the legal limit is 35.

During a police interview Clague admitted that he had been drinking, saying that he had drunk two glasses of wine at home.

Defending Clague in court advocate Louise Cooil said: ‘My client has held his hands up and been quite honest with the police.

‘He would say he did not fall off the bike, the moped decreased in power when turning the corner and he put his foot down to steady himself.

‘Mr Clague had been out the night before until the early hours and hadn’t realised how the build-up of alcohol would affect him.’

Ms Cooil went on to say how Clague suffered from ‘low mood’ and cared for his 93-year-old father.

‘He had a glass of wine with his dad, then another glass later in the afternoon. He went out in the evening not thinking about the build-up,’ said the advocate.

‘It was not a case of drinking and going straight out. He was on the way to the Creg-ny-Baa to watch the bikes.

‘This incident will have a significant effect on him and his father. He had purchased the moped to go out with is father on his motorised vehicle.

‘Now they will have to get taxis. The penalties will run much further than the court will impose.

Deputy High Bailiff Jayne Hughes gave Clague credit for co-operating with police and waiting at the scene.

However, Mrs Hughes said: ‘This was committed during the Manx Grand Prix period when lots of bikes are here, all the more reason everyone should be more careful. It was an extremely high reading, approaching three times the limit, well over two times.’

Clague will have to retake his test at the end of his three year ban and also attend a drink-drive rehabilitation course.

Reigning Football Writers’ Referee of the Year Stuart Kneen is to officiate off-island this season on a regular basis.

The move has come about as the former Rushen player works towards his level 3 qualifications. At the moment officials in the island can only attain the lower 4i grade.

Speaking to Isle of Man Newspapers’ new Manx football podcast last week Kneen said: ‘I’m trying to work toward my level 3, which I can’t do here so that means games across.’

Kneen is keen to progress up the refereeing ladder beyond the level seven games he will be taking charge of this term: ‘There’s a long, long way and lots of hurdles to overcome before I’ll be officiating professional games, but the aim is to get as high as I can.’

‘At the end of last season I did half a dozen games up in Northumberland and Newcastle in the Northern League from which I got some good feedback.

‘I’ve now been added to the North West Counties Combined pool - thanks to help from Tommy Crowe and Neale Barry [FA Head of Senior Referee Development] and David Elleray at the English FA.’

‘I’ve already done a couple of games away this season - there was quite a bit of pressure as I was assessed in both, but again thankfully the feedback was good.’

‘If the assessments continue to go well hopefully I’ll continue to move up the ladder.’

Kneen says the standard of play isn’t to dissimilar to a top Canada Life Premier League fixture.

‘The standard isn’t much different to a top game over here - there’s just a bit more paperwork!’

‘It’s nice to turn up and not know all of the players - you don’t know who you are going to get the problems from which is quite refreshing’

‘I won’t be away every week, so hopefully I’ll still get a chance to do a couple of games a month over here.’

Kneen says hopefully a few more ex-players will follow his example and join the island’s band of men in black: ‘It’s got a bad reputation being a football official for some reason - in my opinion there’s not enough ex-players referring.

‘I finished playing and I wanted to stay in the game - I tried management and I tried being in charge of the combi, but wasn’t enjoying it.’

‘I thought I’d give refereeing a go so I messaged Tommy on the Monday and luckily the following weekend there was a level one course.’

‘The weekend following that I was in the middle of a Combination Two game between Colby and Ronaldsway - it was as quick as that!’

The 38-year-old was quick to pay tribute to those that have helped him on his rise up through the ranks:

‘The support from the Isle of Man Referees Society has been excellent.

‘Tommy [Crowe] was referee development officer when I first started and he’s been so supportive to me.

‘Any questions or problems I had I went straight to Tommy. Kevan Maitland as well has also been a big support, while our new RDO Scott Campion has always been there if I needed advice.’

‘Hopefully I’ll be the first of many Manx officials who try their hand off-island.’

Stuart is self-funding his trips and is keen to attract some sponsorship to help with the ongoing costs: ‘Tommy’s managed to rustle up a few pounds to help me, while some of the other referees have kindly agreed to donate their match fees to help me out.’

If anyone wants to help Stuart please email sportsdesk@newsiom.co.im and we’ll pass on your details.

l If you are interested in becoming a referee Campion is hoping to run a level one course next month.

Email scott.campion@ isleofmanfa.com for more information.

l Listen to the full interview and the new Manx Football podcast online at audioboom.com/channel/manxfootball

This is a complete list of the candidates fighting for seats in the House of Keys on September 22.

Arbory, Castletown and Malew:

Graham Cregeen (defending, Malew and Santon)

Steve Crowther

Phil Gawne (defending, Rushen)

Richard McAleer

Jason Moorhouse

Carl Parker

Carol Quine

Ayre and Michael:

Pat Ayres

Tim Baker

Alfred Cannan (defending, Michael)

Alan Kermode

Carlos Phillips

Louise Whitelegg

Douglas Central:

Captain Kurt Buchholz

Ann Corlett

Richard Falk

Sara Hackman

Michelle Inglis

Chris Thomas (defending Douglas West)

Douglas South:

Kate Beecroft (defending)

Keith Fitton

David Fowler

Bill Malarkey (defending)

Douglas East:

Clare Bettison

Quintin Gill

Richard Halsall

Jon Joughin (defending)

John McBride

Chris Robertshaw (defending)

Cat Turner

Amanda Walker

Douglas North:

Karen Angela

David Ashford

John Houghton (defending)

Ralph Peake (defending)

Lynn Sirdefield

Garff:

Andrew Barton

Daphne Caine

Nigel Dobson

Martyn Perkins

Andrew Smith

Glenfaba and Peel:

Geoffrey Boot (defending, Glenfaba)

Leslie Hanson

Ray Harmer (defending, Peel)

Middle:

William Bowers

Paul Craine

Howard Quayle (defending)

Bill Shimmins

Onchan:

Anthony Allen

Rob Callister

Tim Craig

Julie Edge (LibVan)

David Quirk (defending)

Ramsey:

Alex Allinson

Nick Crowe

Lawrie Hooper

John McDonough

Leonard Singer (defending)

Rushen:

Lee Cussons

Mark Kemp

James Hampton

Laurence Skelly (defending)

Juan Watterson (defending)

A trophy in the form of the Manx god Manannan is on show at the House of Manannan until January.

Awarded each year, ‘Reih Bleeaney Vanannan’ or ‘Manannan’s Choice of the Year’ is a cultural award made by Culture Vannin to an individual or group who has made the greatest contribution to the island’s cultural heritage.

The nominees come from a wide variety of backgrounds, working to promote and support language, literature, art, music, dance, history, education and the environment, and much more.

For 2016, the trophy was awarded posthumously to two cultural champions, Bernard Caine and John Kennaugh.

The trophy is displayed at the House of Manannan with the permission of Manx National Heritage and at the request of the Caine family, recognising Bernard Caine’s roles as one-time chairman of the trustees of the Manx Museum and National Trust, and president of Yn Cheshaght Ghailckagh, the Manx Language Society.

Bernard Caine and John Kennaugh were frequently to be seen working side by side at the heart of our community. Appreciated performers with a deep knowledge of all things Manx, they shared their love of the island, its history, landscape and culture freely.

Heritage site manager at the House of Manannan Suzie Walker said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Manannan to Peel – he is looking magnificent in a special display cabinet in the entrance hall.

‘It is a fitting tribute to two giants of the cultural community that everyone has the chance to see their award.’

The trophy was designed by Eric Austwick and consists of the figure of the sea-god Manannan standing on a piece of Pooilvaaish marble.

It also contains traces of quartz from South Barrule, one of Manannan’s fortresses, and a brooch of Laxey silver presented by Mona Douglas.

All eyes will be on Castletown in JCK Division Two this weekend to see how they bounce back from last Saturday’s hammering at the hands of Braddan.

Despite Town taking the lead, they were reduce to 10 men and the Swan ran riot by running out 11-1 winners in the top-of-the-table clash.

While leaders Braddan enjoy a week off, Town will be hoping to bounce back when they travel to Crosby to take on a Marown side which has overcome a slow start to the season by recording back-to-back 2-1 victories.

Arguably the game of the day in the second division takes place at Ballafletcher where Douglas Royal host Pulrose United. In what is sure to be a fiercly competitive contest, both sides harbour ambitions of challenging for honours this season and, while Royal currently lie three points ahead of Pully in third, a close game should be in store.

With Braddan not playing this weekend, Foxdale could go top of Division Two should they get the better of Onchan at the Nivison Stadium. The visitors will be favourites to win but, as their defeat to Douglas and District recently shows, they can ill afford to take anyone lightly.

D&D face another tough match when they welcome RYCOB to Noble’s Park but, buoyed by that impressive win over Foxdale, they could cause the northerners several problems. Elsewhere in the second division, managerless Gymns travel south to take on second-from-bottom Malew, while Michael United and Governor’s Athletic face up at Balleira Road.

A businessman has blasted the government claiming there was a lack of entertainment for visitors at this year’s Festival of Motorcycling.

Ian Davison, who rents space to sell ice cream at the Grandstand, described the stage at the venue as a ‘waste of money’ and accused the government of having ‘lost interest’ in the event.

Mr Davison, who is also a Peel commissioner, said: ‘I hope some of the candidates standing as MHKs take a serious look at these events before the idiots in charge at the moment destroy what are the two main events of the year – no TT or Manx Grand Prix equals no Isle of Man economy.

‘The stage was erected on the Monday [August 22] and was taken down on Tuesday [August 30].

‘I would imagine it cost £2,000 to hire for the week and the only entertainment was a jazz band and a few interviews on Friday afternoon.

‘Why has this stage not had bands on it every day to provide some entertainment for the visiting bikers?

‘Why has the government sponsored youth music scheme Soundcheck not been offered the stage, to give up-and-coming island bands a chance to play?

‘Even the riders awards presentation which was on this stage last year was moved to the VIP tent, denying the ordinary bikers the chance to see the awards being presented.

‘It appears the government have lost interest in this event and the TT, and this is the reason they are trying to offload it going forward.

‘Apparently some other people have complained, both locals and visitors, who could not believe the stage had been erected and hardly used.’

Mr Davison went on to say that competitors and visitors were very disappointed they couldn’t watch the awards being presented without having to pay to go to the VIP tent.

The Department of Economic Development did not respond when asked to comment.