News of a devastating disease of ash trees being discovered in the UK and Ireland earlier this year is raising concern as to its potential threat to ash trees in the island.

Ash dieback, Chalara fraxinea, is caused by a fungus and has led to widespread loss of ash in Europe in recent years. Denmark has lost about 90 per cent of its native ash trees.

While there have been no reports of Chalara fraxinea in the Isle of Man to date, the disease has the potential to kill many thousands of trees if it reaches the island. Ash makes up around one quarter of hedgerow trees in the island and is important for wildlife, landscape value and biodiversity.

The island is suffering from Dutch Elm disease and sudden oak death.

Brenda Cannell MHK, a member of the Department of the Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘The very aggressive nature of the disease has prompted us to cease importation of ash trees for forestry use and I would urge tree nurseries, and others who may be considering importing ash into the Isle of Man, to join us in this ban, which is voluntary at present.

‘We have put in place a programme to grow ash stocks for our own use from seed. We will be able to know that these are free from the disease. It is hoped that by alerting the general public, nurseries and garden centres to the disease, we can prevent its arrival and spread into the Manx countryside. Everyone’s help with this will be very much appreciated.”

Mountain ash is not related to common ash and is, therefore, not affected or susceptible to the disease.

Symptoms of the disease include dieback of shoots and twigs, and lesions and scarring of bark.

The DEFA’s focus at the present time is to discourage importation of potentially infected tree stocks. Winter and early spring are the season for the buying and planting of trees.

DEFA continues to make committed efforts to control Dutch elm disease across the island and also Phytophthora ramorum (sudden oak death) within its plantations at Ballaugh and West Baldwin.

l Autumn scenes: Centre pages

QUESTIONS to be asked in this week’s sitting of the House of Keys will range from the purchase of shares in Pinewood Shepperton film studios to the Disability Discrimination Act and planning applications.

Douglas South MHK Kate Beecroft (LibVan) will ask five of the seven questions put down for oral answer, four of them focusing on the Pinewood Shepperton deal.

First of the questions is for Treasury Minister Eddie Teare, querying whether the 9.89 per cent shareholding in Pinewood Shepperton guarantees the Treasury representation on the studio’s board.

Mrs Beecroft also wants to know the process used by Treasury to select Steve Christian to represent the Treasury as a board director of Pinewood Shepperton and whether or not he can be dismissed from that position or removed from the board of directors without the consent of the government or Treasury.

Her final question on the Pinewood Shepperton deal focuses on dividends. Mrs Beecroft wants to know when the studios last declared a dividend and what its dividends policy is.

The spotlight will also fall on the Chief Minister Allan Bell when Mrs Beecroft asks him for an update on the progress made on implementing and enforcing the Disability Discrimination Act.

Remaining questions for this week are from Onchan MHK Zac Hall and Michael MHK Alfred Cannan.

Mr Hall will ask the Chief Minister how closely the Government’s October 2012 statement of priorities matches those of its general election manifesto and the policies of members of the Council of Ministers. He also wants to know when and how the Council of Ministers agreed the content of the Statement on Government’s priorities.

Finally Mr Cannan is to ask the Minister of Infrastructure David Cretney MHK what guidance is given to his officers about written or verbal communication between them and parties making planning applications.

Mr Hall also has a further 16 out of 18 questions submitted for written answer.

He wants to know the cost in 2006 and 2012 of engaging the Structure and Scope Review team and he has also requested a break-down of the salaries paid to staff in the Attorney General’s Chambers. Other questions relate to topics including NHS waiting lists, dilapidated housing and a meeting between the Department of Infrastructure and the Steam Packet Company.

Mrs Beecroft has further questions for written answer.

She wants the Treasury Minister to provide a list of films made when the Media Development Fund was under the management of CinemaNX. The details should include the name of the film, the original budget, the actual cost, the names of the co-funding parties on each film and their actual contribution, the net gain or loss and a breakdown of the recoupment figure for each film.

CHIEF Minister Allan Bell has reaffirmed his commitment to hosting regular public meetings after another full house turned out for the latest Government event in Port Erin.

Around 150 people gathered at the Erin Arts Centre last Tuesday evening to question Mr Bell and his Ministerial colleagues on a wide range of national issues.

The next community meeting in the north of the island – to be held in Ramsey on January 30, 2013 – will bring the initial run to a conclusion following similar events in the east (Douglas), west (Peel) and south (Port Erin).

Mr Bell said the programme of engagement is set to be extended in response to an enthusiastic reception from the Manx public.

He said: ‘The community meetings have proved an effective way of communicating directly with the public, not only to convey government’s messages, but more importantly to listen to the views, ideas and concerns of local residents.

‘The events are an important part of my promise to promote open and transparent Government and to work with the public in the best interests of the Isle of Man. We welcome these opportunities for open and honest dialogue and ministers will make themselves available into 2013 and beyond provided there is continued interest from the public.’

The meeting in Port Erin opened with a presentation by Treasury Minister Eddie Teare who outlined government’s strategy to rebalance public finances by 2015-16.

Social Care Minister Chris Robertshaw then provided an update on the social policy consultation which had generated more than 1,200 responses.

Mr Robertshaw said there was strong support for means-testing and helping people to become self-sufficient where possible, rather than providing long-term benefits.

The main part of the evening was devoted to an open question and answer session chaired by the Chief Minister.

A number of topics were raised including overseas aid funding, renewable energy, Government’s partnership with Pinewood Shepperton plc, the island’s tourism offering, employment opportunities, dilapidated properties, Tynwald Members’ salaries, first-time buyer housing, and efforts to grow and diversify the economy.

The Chief Minister said: ‘Once again we experienced a lively exchange of views on a vast cross-section of issues. I am pleased the community meetings have been generally well received by the public. They are a genuine attempt to be open and accountable.There is the potential to make these events a regular fixture and I look forward to another good turnout when we visit Ramsey in January.’

l What do you think?

Email opinions@newsiom.co.im

As the nights draw in and the days grow shorter, Macmillan Children’s Books are spreading some welcome rays of forgotten sunshine onto a new season of reading.

Forget the TV and the Xbox, find a comfy chair and get lost in a world of seafaring cats, street-wise rodents, fiery dragons, knockabout history, alien adventures and dark, dangerous teen adventures.

Macmillan seek out the best authors and illustrators to bring kids some of the most exciting and innovative books around so get set and go for a winter of wonders.

Early years:

Poppy Cat: All Aboard! by Lara Jones

This superbly visual and fantastically colourful first picture book is sure to catch the eye of the very youngest children and become a firm favourite. Poppy Cat’s extraordinary adventures are a fun and funny way to introduce books. Featuring simple layouts and eye-catching artwork, tiny tots will enjoy sharing these stories again and again. Poppy Cat is a brilliant TV series based on the original books by Lara Jones who sadly died aged only 34 two years ago. In each episode, Lara, a little girl, invents extraordinary adventures for her beloved Poppy Cat and then the colourful characters spring to life in stories of friendship and fantasy play. A small, easy-to-handle picture book ideal for babies.

(board book, £4.99)

Zoe and Beans: Hello Oscar! by Chloë and Mick Inkpen

The Inkpens, a talented father and daughter duo, deliver another stunningly beautiful picture book in the adorable Zoe and Beans series for tots aged three and over. Chloë and Mick are proving a top team with their unique and exciting picture book partnership. Meet Oscar, the new next-door neighbour and a brand new friend for Zoe and Beans! Zoe has found a guinea pig at the bottom of the garden. And a tortoise, and a chameleon, and now there’s a noisy parrot! Where have they all come from? The hole in the fence could be a clue, but who lives on the other side? Exquisite drawings, the cutest little heroine and a fun story are sure to cast a warm glow over bedtime reading.

(hardback, £10.99)

Grandpa Green by Lane Smith

In his most enigmatic and beautiful work to date, Lane Smith explores the importance of grandparents and their role in family life. Enter into Grandpa Green’s garden where the trees tell the story. Grandpa Green wasn’t always a gardener. He was a boy who lived on a farm and a child who had chickenpox. He was a soldier, a husband and, most of all, an artist. Follow his grandson through a garden where memories are handed down through the shapes of topiary trees and imagination recreates things forgotten. Charming, original and whimsical, Grandpa Green is book for every generation of the family to enjoy with its touching themes of family ties, shared memories and that special bond between the oldest and youngest in a family. A wonderful story that has all the ingredients to become a family favourite and a timeless classic.

(hardback, £11.99)

Again! by Emily Gravett

Enter the magical world of Emily Gravett and you’ll never want to return! Her award-winning stories are written and illustrated with flair, affection and a freewheeling sense of fun which tumbles out of every page. Here she brings us a stubborn little dragon with a favourite book... and a fiery temper! It’s nearly Cedric the dragon’s bedtime. He’s brushed his teeth and had his bath and there’s just time for his mum to read him his favourite book. Unfortunately for her, Cedric likes the story so much that he wants to hear it again and again with flame-filled consequences! There’s a red-hot surprise in the closing pages which will leave pre-schoolers burning to read this again and again, just like Cedric! Gravett’s imagination goes into overdrive in this funny, endearing and perceptive take on the whole concept of a book at bedtime.

(paperback, £6.99)

Rastamouse: Da Monstrous Fib by Genevieve Webster and Michael de Souza

The coolest rodent in town is back with his crazy crew of breakdancin’ pals to take pre-school dudes on more rappin’ and rhyming adventures. Join Da Easy Crew in Da Monstrous Fib, a lift-the-flap, pop-up adventure! (Campbell Books, paperback, £6.99) The ‘likkle’ orphan mice are having a great time camping in the forest until they are spooked by some monstrous noises in the middle of the night. Everyone is amazed when Bagga T’s cousin Mixy Mouse scares away the monster. But wait a minute, there’s no such thing as monsters, right? With flaps to lift on every page and a brilliant pop-up ending, children will love joining in the hunt for the truth as Rastamouse, Scratchy and Zoomer solve another puzzling mystery. Upbeat entertainment for young movers and shakers!

And don’t miss Rastamouse and the Double-Crossin’ Diva (Macmillan, paperback, £6.99). Missy D is causing Trouble with a capital T! Back-flippin’ Missy D is desperate to get to Mousetego Bay to win the grand prize in the Nuff Song Talent Show – so desperate that she’ll even steal the orphanage bus to get there. With the poor little mice stranded and missing all the fun, it’s an Easy Crew emergency!

Also, Rastamouse: Wicked Sticker Fun! (Campbell Books, paperback, £3.99) is bursting with games, puzzles and Mouseland mysteries to solve. Featuring Da Easy Crew and all their friends, it comes with over 60 glossy stickers and is the perfect companion for rainy days, journeys and holidays.

Age 5-7:

Gobbolino, The Witch’s Cat by Ursula Moray Williams

On the 70th anniversary of the publication of one of Britain’s best-loved children’s books, Gobbolino is ready to work his special brand of magic on a new generation of youngsters. Ursula Moray Williams, who died in 2006 aged 95, wrote nearly 70 books for children. This special edition has been lovingly brought to life for a modern audience by award-winning illustrator Catherine Rayner. No one could mistake Gobbolino for a simple kitchen cat, with his sparkling whiskers and magic tricks, but that’s just what the witch’s kitten wants to be. Instead of learning how to turn mice into toads for the witch’s brew, Gobbolino sets out on an adventure to find a family and a home of his own. This beautiful hardback edition has a retro appeal which makes it irresistible for both adults and youngsters.

(Macmillan, hardback, £9.99)

A First Poetry Book by Pie Corbett and Gaby Morgan

The early school years are the ideal time to get children interested in poetry and there could be no better introduction than this bright and beautiful book packed with verses to amaze, entertain and excite. Aimed at five to seven-year-olds, it includes hundreds of brand new poems from the very best poets around, and some timeless gems as well. The first in a new series of poetry books created with Key Stage One teachers and pupils in mind, it packs in some glorious poems that will appeal to a wide audience. The topic-based collection features poems about fairies, mermaids, princesses, monsters, mythical creatures, dinosaurs, pets, families, seasons, school, pirates, the senses, space, feelings, holidays, food, friends, the past and lots more.

(Macmillan, paperback, £6.99)

Age 7 plus:

Tony Robinson’s Weird World of Wonders: British

Using all the comic wit that he harnessed so memorably in the BBC Blackadder series, Tony Robinson brings us a history lesson with all the funny, strange, smelly and disgusting bits which teachers leave out but kids can’t get enough of! Here he sets his sardonic sights on the eccentric Brits and it’s a heady, hilarious headlong gallop through our country’s fascinating and sometimes foul history. Youngsters can find out everything they ever wanted to know in this brilliant, action-packed, fact-filled book, including how to avoid scurvy, why bright red isn’t the best colour for a soldier’s uniform, why not being able to swim was considered an advantage and how to cure the most gruesome tropical diseases. If only all lessons could be this much fun!

(paperback, £5.99)

Alienography 2: Tips for Tiny Tyrants by Chris Riddell

So you want to rule the universe? Join Chris Riddell, one of the best illustrators around, and Colin the alien as they explain their tips for intergalactic domination in this exciting, irreverent and colourful journey into space. Learn how to select a simpering sidekick, how to choose an evil outfit (a good vest is a must!) and how to buy the best battle cruiser ... you’ll be a butt-kicking baddy before you can blink! Impressively illustrated and full of out-of-this world laughs, this big, bold book has some brilliant novelty elements including a mini comic, a fold-out cross-section of the Centennial Turkey spaceship and a Top Chumps card game. Riddell’s books combine a wonderful originality with quirky humour tone to create something totally irresistible for keen readers. There’s never a dull moment in Riddell’s marvellously madcap world! Clever, funny and with an imagination as big as the universe, Riddell is the perfect choice for kids who love slime, silliness and geeky heroes!

(Macmillan, hardback, £14.99)

Teenage:

Rage Within by Jeyn Roberts

Jeyn Roberts’ mind-blowing teen novel Dark Inside was always going to be a hard act to follow but Rage Within features the same winning formula with its edgy darkness and white-knuckle excitement. The heart-stopping, page-turning saga of rage, hope and survival continues in Rage Within as a group of young earthquake survivors battle deadly, powerful forces. After the earthquakes came the infectious rage, turning friends into deadly enemies. For survivors Michael, Aries, Mason and Clementine, who have gained determination and resilience in their post-apocalyptic world, the battle to stay alive is about to get even tougher. The new world is organising itself, with camps that promise protection for the uninfected. But the reality of the sites is far more sinister. Besides, nobody is safe from the rage within their own soul... Chilling and truly terrifying, Rage Within is a tale of friends and enemies, hope and hopelessness, strength and weakness. A must-read for all young horror fans.

(Macmillan, paperback, £6.99)

Forget Me Never by Gina Blaxill

Teens will love Gina Blaxill’s fast-paced novel which thrills with its true-to-life characters, gentle romance, gritty plotline and gripping finale. Did she jump or was she pushed? When Sophie’s cousin Danielle dies after a fall from her balcony, the police dismiss her death as suicide. She had broken up with her boyfriend and had suffered from depression in the past. Sophie isn’t so sure, however, and when she finds a computer memory stick in a pair of Dani’s old jeans, some new photos and information come to light that point to something more sinister. Sophie and her friend Reece investigate further and soon find out that Dani was involved with something very dark and very dangerous. As Sophie and Reece become more and more deeply involved, they put themselves in enormous danger too as they access secret data, face kidnap attempts and worse. And as they uncover the terrible truth about what really happened to Dani, Sophie and Reece must also face their feelings for each other... A brilliant and sensitively crafted exploration of the nature of friendship wrapped up in an intriguing, heart-searching mystery.

(Macmillan, paperback, £6.99)

Monday, October 29

Aries

(March 21 - April 20)

In a week that starts with a Full Moon in Taurus, the emphasis is firmly on money. Seek it out, save it and manage it. Developing good relationships with work colleagues and the boss has never been more important. Any romantic liaisons in this area, however, need treating with caution. Decisions are driven by practical needs and it is necessary to curb an overactive imagination.

Taurus

(April 21 - May 21)

A creative week offers the chance to take up a new interest or hobby. Do this in a social setting rather than alone if possible. Take any advantage of any opportunities to socialise. Communications and relationships are still good but do need that little bit of extra input to shine. Finances need careful handling as usual. This is a universal problem and so you need not feel alone.

Gemini

(May 22 - June 21)

Cash should be easier to come by. For various reasons, however, check out the source. Try to get a balance between what you are willing to do and what is really against your principles or beliefs. A comfortable life is not a good exchange for peace of mind! Temptations come in many forms and some bring excitement. Still, just how much of this do you want?

Cancer

(June 22 - July 23)

A romantic interest from the past is likely to be triggered by Monday’s Full Moon in Taurus. If there is currently no one special in your life, there is a temptation here. However, rose-tinted glasses are not a good idea as far as this person is concerned. Remember their faults also. Getting finances organised, if you have not already done so, is a very good idea.

Leo

(July 24 - August 23)

This week is all about not overdoing anything in any area of your life. Work is busy but don’t get overtired. A romance needs to move on but don’t rush into commitment. Finances should be good but avoid spending too much. Arranging something fun and unusual at the weekend leads to a closer link with young relatives. Who would have thought that it could be so delightful?

Virgo

(August 24 - September 23)

Tall stories and active imaginations run through the week. This could be triggered by the Taurus Full Moon. Indeed, someone from your romantic past may decide that you are right for them after all! I don’t want to be a grouch, but take care. Of course you are irresistible but could there be another motive? Tongue in cheek and purse firmly closed, please.

Libra

(September 24 - October 23)

What an interesting week! Planning a festive meeting or weekend getaway sets your head spinning. In among all of the coming and going, however, hold on to those finances. A last-minute bill or some other shock to the household budget is likely. Loved ones see the funny side of life. Can you do the same? Could be worth the effort.

Scorpio

(October 24 - November 22)

This week should be an exercise in stress avoidance. Jettison that idea that seems to be getting more and more complicated. Avoid that person who is bringing your spirits down. Delay spending on a new item when you could get it just as well second-hand. Time will be kind if you give it a chance. What seems a problem today will melt into the past.

Sagittarius

(November 23 - December 21)

A contact that you made in the second week of this month comes into their own. They can help in some way, perhaps by having knowledge. In a busy time at work it is tempting to just say no to invitations. Accept a few, though, to break up the week. A good laugh with friends is the best stress reliever. There are plenty of quiet evenings. You won’t have to look for them.

Capricorn

(December 22 - January 20)

A recent journey seems to have had a big effect on your love life. Although you may not be able to get away again for a while, planning ahead can be fun. At work it would be quite easy to get tasks done by yourself. However, having to work together with colleagues brings you all closer. Never underestimate the power of a shared purpose.

Aquarius

(January 21 - February 19)

There are lots of flights of fancy taking off this week. Many of your friends may be on them. Avoid leaping aboard. It is a super week to socialise and perhaps plan a holiday trip. Some seasonal invitations may have already been proffered. Try not to tie yourself down on these just yet. There are more offers and people yet to come your way! Hold fire.

Pisces

(February 20 - March 20)

As romance blossoms it may seem that your path is set. Keep an open mind on this. There is likely to be a niggling doubt in your mind about your current situation. You could choose to ignore it for now. Remember that what you are willing to settle for may not be what you originally wanted. Am I right? Time will tell, of course. Just don’t cement yourself in.

72: A flea in his ear

Various roadside signs have lined the verges as summer has shifted into a colourful autumn above the Arve Valley. The French way is to paste flyers to plywood then hit you with a series of three or four; the first grabs your attention, you get a key word or two off the second, and by number four you’ve just about got the message, which is then hammered home over a week or so until the event has passed. So recently we’ve been seduced (or not) by a Puppy Fair at Ville-Le-Grand, a Ski-Exchange at Marignier and a Fireman’s Ball at Ayze – but pride of place has had to go to Les Scouts of Cluses, with the biggest flea market in Les Deux Savoies.

Marian, our trusty local advisor, gave us the lowdown some time ago; the whole thing is organised with military precision. First collections are held on staggered weekends throughout September; we had a long-overdue clearance of the garage and a good cause feels much worthier than a trip to the recycling. Once the collections are complete, it’s all sorted and priced behind closed doors then on four Sundays in October the whole lot is sold in massive marquees on the outskirts of Cluses. (The proceeds and any unsold goods go to Romania, seems only reasonable after Sarkozy deported all the indigenous gypsies in that general direction).

The Boss went down with Marian on Opening Sunday, 9:00am sharp; parking was likely to be a problem so I dropped the girls off on my way to Geneva. Even at that early hour the roads were gridlocked, traffic tailed back a km or so in both directions. People were already leaving, burdened with all sorts of unlikely purchases. Four hours later I was home but no sign of my favourite shopper... eventually she trailed in with the morning’s pickings; a fireguard (much needed), brass porthole (less so), assorted curtains (not my sphere of influence)... the list goes on. But of course it didn’t stop there, there were still three weeks to go and apparently she hadn’t made it past tent 2.

So the following week so us both following the streaming hordes, to return an hour or so later with a large garden bench, twelve nice heavy glass sundae dishes, a mouli-legumes, a stuffed panda (for Ffin – alas stuffed no longer!) and so on. I have no idea how an ordinary retailer functions in this neck of the woods, as the Boss observed you could kit out an entire household there – I’m sure they’re doing wedding lists. And there’s still two weeks to go!

Flea-markets seem to be the in thing in this neck of the woods – last weekend we were entertaining visitors from the Island and their friends, and popped over to Lausanne for a lunchtime cruise on La Suisse, belle-époque pride of the CGN fleet on Lake Geneva. This was everyone’s first visit to Ouchy, the port of Lausanne but we found the car-park and sauntered down the quay in glorious sunshine – only to stumble over another sizable marquee, stuffed with trestle-tables onto which the enterprising Swiss had emptied their lofts and nuclear shelters – and not a cuckoo clock to be seen. Prices seemed a tad hefty though, even before the ruinous frank exchange rate, so I manfully fought back strong buying urges.

A good tale about the Swiss on one of the websites I picked up in a twitter trawl the other day; apparently their army, still largely staffed by national service conscripts is shifting its emphasis to policing the borders in readiness for the anarchy expected to follow the anticipated collapse of the euro economies. The ravening hordes of goths, visigoths & whatever from the failed European nations are to be turned back at bayonet point. It’s not so fanciful; I travel into Geneva twice a week and it’s the Italian cars that always get pulled over for the shake-down.

Ah well, whatever their national shortcomings, the Swiss maintain a very stylish fleet of paddle-steamers and a wonderful day was had by all. Lunch in the First Class saloon was a real joy; certainly French champagne and probably a French chef, I mused....

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VISITORS to Douglas town centre on Saturday were in for a real fright.

The streets were taken over by people wearing a range of scary outfits, from ghouls to vampires, and culminated with Ginny the Witch being sentenced to drown in Douglas harbour – only to escape at the last minute.

It was part of the first Douglas Fright Fest, which was organised by Douglas Development Partnership and sponsored by Celton Manx.

Douglas Council leader David Christian said: ‘It was another very successful event organised by Douglas Development Partnership.

‘This type of event is helping to culturally regenerate the town centre at the same time as we are physically regenerating it.’

The Jurassic Experience, a life-sized animatronic dinosaur, started proceedings in Regent Street at 3pm.

There were also creepy crafts, turnip carving, face painting and street performers as well as a competition for the scariest local business.

Two hours later there was a call for all goblins, ghouls and creatures of the night to creep over to Castle Street for the lantern-lit fancy dress parade which led to North Quay.

The finale took place there and saw Ginny the Witch face a live trial.

There was also live music, street theatre, children’s attractions, ghost walks, a fire show and the judging of the best fancy dress.

Mr Christian added that there was a whole range of events scheduled to take place in the main shopping area and Douglas promenades.

‘We have all accepted regenerating Douglas and spending money on it is one thing. But unless people want to come in and use the town centre what is the point in doing it?’

Anyone with ideas of what they would like to see in the town centre is asked to contact Douglas Corporation.

A MOUNTAIN bike has been stolen from the garden of a house in Waterloo Road on Sunday night at 11:50pm.

The two culprits removed the blue 20inch Apollo Ridge Mountain bike costing £200 from a front garden and in the process damaged a motorbike fairing and a car wing mirror.

The two men, one riding the stolen mountain bike and the other on foot, went in the direction of Albert Road stopping only to verbally abuse a driver in a passing car. The owner of the mountain bike gave chase but was unable to catch the thieves.

If you were the driver of the car, witnessed the incident or if you know of anyone trying to sell a Mountain bike of the same description please notify the Ramsey Police Station on 812234 or Douglas Police Headquarters on 631212.

TWO new members have been appointed to the Isle of Man Arts Council.

The first is Alan Jackson, an award-winning BBC senior producer-presenter who has returned home to the island after a distinguished time with the BBC Radio Merseyside.

His career with the BBC has spanned more than 25 years during which time he received plaudits for his work in news, current affairs, entertainment and sport. Alan’s vast experience includes interviews with Prince Charles and Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher as well as numerous personalities from the world of show business including Paul McCartney and Cliff Richard.

The second is former Examiner features editor John Quirk, who is now director of media for Isle of Man Advertising and PR and festival director for Manx Litfest, which was staged for the first time in September 2012.

John has also written two books - The Manx Connection, which saw him visit Manx societies around the world; and The Manx Giant: The Amazing Story of Arthur Caley. John is in the process of establishing a small publishing house, Nemesis Publishing.

A POLICE presence has been requested by managers at the Bowl – as the £3.3 million facility has become a Friday night meeting place for up to 100 rowdy local youths.

Concerns have been raised by Brian Callow, chairman of the IoM Junior Football League, following an incident in which a mother watching her son play in a match confronted a group of teenagers who refused to leave the pitch side, and then had a ball kicked in her face.

Mr Callow said: ‘It’s such a wonderful facility and it’s been brilliant for junior football.

‘There’s not been any problem with the sporting side but it seems to have become a Friday night meeting point for youths. One weekend there were a 100-plus kids there. There have been a lot of problems in terms of their behaviour and rowdiness.

‘Some of the kids are there to watch their mates play, but for most it’s just a meeting place.

‘It’s had no effect at all on the football but it has for those coming down to watch the matches who have had to hear abusive language and see bad behaviour with kids running around.’

Following a request by managers at the Bowl, police patrols have been arranged every Friday night with a camera unit in attendance once a month.

Additional CCTV cameras in the venue are also planned.

Mr Callow said the incident involving the mother who had a football kicked in her face happened two to three weeks ago and only came to light later when she spoke to a coach.

‘The club was not aware it had happened,’ he explained. ‘She took the ball in the face and was very upset.

‘The managers of the Bowl are going to install additional CCTV cameras and are definitely going to monitor the situation as they don’t want it to escalate at the expense of the sport.’

A spokesman for the Department of Community Culture and Leisure said: ‘The department is aware of two incidents that have taken place during junior football league matches at the Bowl Stadium.

‘The safety and enjoyment of everyone using our facilities is of paramount importance to us. We are working closely with league officials and community police officers to identify and deal with any potential issues in the future.’

The redeveloped Bowl Stadium in Douglas opened in August 2011 following a £3.3 million facelift, ahead of its role as centrepiece of the Commonwealth Youth Games the following month.

THE summer season may be over but a number of sea creatures can still be seen in Manx waters.

The Manx Whale and Dolphin Watch (MWDW) is urging residents to keep an eye out for them – and report any sightings.

MWDW volunteer Sarah Kaye said that porpoises, minke whales and bottlenose dolphins could still be seen off the Manx coast.

In fact a pod of more than 60 bottlenose dolphins was seen off the west of the island last Tuesday and a group of about 40 were seen off Niarbyl on Thursday.

Porpoises are about 1.4m-1.9m in length, so a bit of back and a small dorsal fin would be visible.

They can be seen at a range of locations around the island.

Minke whales can be up to 7m-10m long, and a long roll with a dorsal fin near the end would be visible. The MWDW would expect to see them at this time of year off the island’s east coast.

Sarah said how long they would stay here depends on fish stocks.

Bottlenose dolphins are 1.8m-3.8m long, and in the island they tend to be found in quite large pods. Sarah said just the fin would be visible in the water, but, if you’re lucky, they might jump.

Anyone who sees a cetacean in Manx waters is asked to report it at {http://www.mwdw.net|www.mwdw.net} and if it’s particularly exciting call Sarah on 413253 or Becca on 415688.

AN accident on the Mountain Road between Creg-ny-Baa and Brandish left one car on its roof on top of the banking.

One driver from Ramsey was taken to hospital for treatment after the crash but was later released.

The accident happened a few hundred yards south of the Creg-ny-Baa Hotel shortly before 3pm on Thursday, October 25.

The road was closed between Hillberry and the Creg-ny-Baa for around three hours while police conducted accident investigations. Traffic was diverted via the Creg-ny-Baa Back Road so motorists could still travel over the mountain. The road was reopened at about 6pm. Anyone with information should contact police on 631212.

ELAINE Cain, who began her banking career aged only 15 for Isle of Man Bank in 1968, is retiring this month, having spent the last 12 years as manager of the Peel branch.

Born and raised in Peel, Elaine attended local schools before starting work.

‘It’s so different now, I was the youngest employee and we used handwritten ledgers!’ she said.

She left the bank to look after her family in 1978, before returning part time after a few short years.

Previously to being appointed manager in 2000, she worked in a number of roles, including staff trainer and customer service officer also based at the Peel branch.

One of the many highlights of Elaine’s career was accepting a National Customer Service Award in 2009, which was presented at an event at the Grosvenor Hotel in London.

Also attended by some of her staff, she said: ‘We were so happy to be nominated so it was such a wonderful surprise to have won.’

Isle of Man Bank managing director Bill Shimmins said: ‘Elaine has been a steadfast manager for the bank and supported the Peel community with great aplomb over the years.

‘We wish her a long and happy retirement.’

During her retirement she plans to enjoy a trip to America and concentrate on being a grandmother.

JOHN Louis Henry Mylchreest sold Maggie’s Cottage, Billown, Ballasalla, for £275,000 to Skilbrick Property Holding Ltd, Billown Farm, Ballasalla.

This and the following other property transactions have recently been recorded at the General Registry:

Winifred Julia Mary Fryer sold Lothlorien, Quarry Road, Laxey, for £265,000 to Robin Peter Higgins and Joney Leanne Faragher, 3 Dumbells Terrace, Laxey.

Shaun Charles Gelling and Carol Anne Gelling sold Kensyldene, Main Road, Lower Foxdale, for £259,000 to James Richard Turpin and Gena Pauline Turpin, 8 Stanley Mount, Peel.

Geoffrey Gilbert and his wife sold 17 Rowan Avenue, Peel, for £257,000 to Jonathan Penman, 44 Corran Pirragh, Reayrt-ny-Chrink, Peel.

Colin Michael Morgan and Deirdre Margaret Mary Morgan sold 7 Glen Falcon Glen Terrace, Douglas, for £220,000 to Matthew Benjamin Neary and Megan Louise Winnell, 19 Sartfell Road, Douglas.

Robert Charles Corkish and Louise Corkish sold 9 Bramble Close, Saddlestone Park, Douglas, for £217,500 to Glynne Parry Conway and Joan May Conway, 3 Spinney Close, Douglas.

Steven Anthony Windsor and Martina Windsor sold 45 Murrays Lake Drive, Santon, for £203,000 to Siddhant Dharmadhikari and Vishakha Dharmadhikari, 7 Queen’s Apartments, Castle Terrace, Douglas.

Andrew Mark Gordon sold 130 Lakeside Road, Governor’s Hill, Douglas, for £195,000 to Jay Michael Craig and Nicola Louise Craig, Flat 3, 27 Linden Gardens, Douglas.

The trustees of the estate of Florence Quayle sold Lealand, Grove Mount, Ramsey, for £175,000 to John Henry Mitchell, 1 Magnus Court, Kings Reach, Ramsey.

Vera Audrey Morrison sold Rainbow Cottage, 3 Chapel Terrace, Laxey, for £152,000 to Mark Jonathan Morgan-Jones, 4 The Castleward Green, Douglas.

• We publish details of all house sales unless we receive a written request from the police or probation service.

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BUSES are not going to Royal Avenue, Onchan, this morning (Tuesday).

Due to road works Bus Vannin has said that buses using Royal Avenue this Morning are being divert via Alberta Drive, Summerhill Road, Corkill’s roundabout to the traffic lights at the Manx Arms, and vice versa. Although route 3 is not affected.

The two bus stops at the top of Royal Avenue will not be served in either direction, said Bus Vannin.

The situation will be updated later.

IT was lucky seven for both Ballafletcher sides as they each netted seven goals without reply in the Warehouse Fitness-sponsored Women’s League on Sunday.

Corinthians still maintain pole position with a 100 per cent record following their win over Peel at Douglas Road. Leading 0-3 at half-time, Anna Dillon (2), Jade Burden, Alcivane McGregor, Lauren Christian and Jenna McStay scored for the Whites.

Douglas Royal kept their own title ambitions on track with victory over DHSOB. Leading 4-0 at the interval, Donna Shimmin (2), Bekki Cole (2), Becci Pate, Megan Loughran and Bekkie Colquitt were on target for Royal.

The matches involving Laxey v Gymnasium and Castletown and Colby v Rushen Utd were scratched because of the weather.

A round-up of all the women’s football will appear in this week’s Manx Independent.

It’s probably pointless to point out... but the whole point of this pointedly pointless new book is that it’s pointless!

Christmas is coming and it’s time to start having fun, courtesy of mine hosts extraordinaire Alexander Armstrong and Richard Osman, fresh from their hot seats on the hugely popular BBC 1 series Pointless.

The two funny men have downed their question sheets and put their heads together to bring us an eclectic collection of 100 irritating, infuriating, bizarre and magnificently pointless things that have been sent to try us all.

And it seems the world is full of pointlessness whether that’s rail replacement bus services, chip forks, war, wind chimes, people who put cushions on beds or people who read the bit they write about a book on Amazon.

Just what is the purpose, they ask, of toaster settings, December 27-30, being fourteen, poems that don’t rhyme, wearable blankets, disposable razor research and Baby on Board stickers.

And who hasn’t felt exasperated by the sheer pointlessness of customer feedback, the stupidity of ‘Keep Calm’ spin-offs and the futility of ‘double checking’?

As for the one penny coin, its utter, remorseless lack of usefulness gets a pasting from the dynamic duo’s own special brand of sardonic wit and wisdom. It turns out these annoying little coins are only legal tender up to 20p. ‘If you pay for something with twenty-one 1p pieces, you are contravening the Coinage Act 1971.’

We’ve all seen those ‘things hanging from rear-view mirrors’ and paused to wonder at the point of wiggly-hipped Elvises, mini boxing-gloves, furry dice, skulls and ‘red plastic things that look like chilli peppers.’

And that universal pet hate – over-complicated hotel showers – also gets the Pointless treatment. ‘I was in a hotel recently and the shower had four different dials. Four? A Challenger tank only has three!’

Armstrong and Osman can’t fail to touch our funny nerve with their irreverent and laugh-out-loud take on the pointlessness of modern life with all its excessive and over-baked triviality. And if you want to join in the entertainment, they have included a series of typically Pointless home quiz questions with the answers usefully provided at the back of the book.

The 100 Most Pointless Things in the World is the perfect Christmas gift book, ideal for loo reading, filling in aimless hours or to keep boredom at bay when pointless guests descend.

(Coronet, hardback, £14.99)

MEDIUMS from around the island are being given a chance to demonstrate their talents tomorrow (Wednesday, October 31) at a charity night at the Palace Hotel, Douglas.

Guests can see mediums working from the stage, and visit the Mind, Body and Spirit exhibition, where stands from local businesses – such as fairy and angel card readings, massage, holistic healing, Indian head massage, tarot card readings and more – will be set up.

Proceeds will go to Manxaid. Doors open at 7.30pm, and entrance is £5.

CAN government afford to make staff redundant?

Chief Minister Allan Bell confirmed that ‘substantial’ settlements have already been made where posts have been made redundant.

A planned shake-up of ‘complex’ and ‘out-dated’ compensation payments for government staff who are made redundant was announced last month.

iomtoday understands that a civil servant made redundant could be eligible for a lump sum severance payment of up to three years’ pay - and the bill to government could prove very costly.

A joint working group including employee representatives has been set up to look at how the system can be modernised. It will be chaired by Alfred Cannan MHK, deputy chairman of the Public Sector Pensions Authority (PSPA).

Mr Bell’s predecessor Tony Brown called for government departments to try to cut their salary bill by 10 per cent.

Government salary budgets for the last three years have not been increased and any pay rises that have been awarded during that time have had to come out of existing budgets.

But Mr Bell said: ‘The ability to introduce more efficiencies is going to be more and more challenging and therefore some hard decisions will have to be made about the level of employment and range of services.

‘There is a potentially big issue over the cost of redundancy across government if it is to be carried out on a wider scale.

‘There have already been some substantial settlements where posts have been made redundant. Clearly the costs of redundancy have to be balanced against the savings.’

Mr Bell pointed out that the government has lost a third of its income as a result of the VAT bombshell. ‘We have to make substantial savings,’ he said.

‘Clearly the intention of departments is to make savings which will help them to rebalance their own budgets in the long term. There is a balance to be struck between the short term costs of redundancy and the long-term savings which could be quite substantial.

‘Compulsory redundances always have a short term cost. It has to be proportionate to the savings likely to be made.’

But the Chief Minister warned against ‘too savage’ a reduction in the government workforce.

He said: ‘Wholesale redundancies not only involve financial settlements but there is the potential simply to transfer the costs from the departments to the Department of Social Care and the benefits system.

‘Equally, too savage a reduction in employment will lead to the destabilisation of the local economy.’

Mr Bell said the government had been ‘somewhat generous’ in the past with staff terms and conditions.

He said: ‘We are looking at terms and conditions of employees to see whether sufficient savings and flexibility could be created by changes in that area.’

Alf Cannan declined to comment about levels of redundancy settlements but said: ‘Negotiations are ongoing with the employees’ side and senior officers are keen to seek a resolution.’

ROADS chiefs are considering recommendations made by the Coroner of Inquests in the wake of a fatal road accident outside the Hawthorn Inn, in Greeba, on the main A1 Douglas to Peel road.

Last month John Needham called for overtaking restrictions to be extended ‘as an issue of priority’.

Alexander Williamson, aged 36, of Charles Street Close, Peel, died when his motorcycle was involved in a collision with a car that was attempting to turn right out of the Hawthorn’s car park.

Mr Williamson had been carrying out an overtaking manoeuvre at the time, on a derestricted stretch of road where there were no double white lines to prohibit overtaking.

Department of Infrastructure director of highways Richard Pearson said that since the inquest the 50mph zone had been extended westwards past the Hawthorn.

The inquest had heard that the highways division had plans to extend the 50mph zone.

Mr Pearson added: ‘We are currently considering the possibility of introducing a no overtaking regime at this location following the outcome of the inquiry and our advice to it.’

He said it was ‘purely coincidental’ that the DoI was due to start works on the A1 road at Greeba this week.

‘The work currently highlighted at Greeba is not in connection with the recent inquiry, it is part of our revenue improvement programme to make roads safer,’ he said.

Mr Pearson explained that the scheme will improve the sight line for vehicles coming out of Ballachurry Road.

‘This entails demolishing and rebuilding the wall further back to clear the sight line,’ he said.

The work is expected to take up to five weeks to complete.

The cost of the scheme is about £35,000.

Mr Pearson said: ‘The first part of the work will be completed using traffic signals between 9.30am and 4.30pm but once clear of the road, the remainder of the project will allow traffic to flow as usual.’

At the inquest into Mr Williamson’s death, Mr Needham said it was a ‘particularly busy area of road’ because there were a number of junctions emerging on to the main road.

The Coroner did not agree with Constable Michael Crompton, of the roads policing unit, who said there was no need to extened the double white lines as ‘potential hazards had started to lessen’ on that stretch.

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