Ramsey will be echoing to the sounds of carols in the run-up to Christmas.

Tonight (Thursday, December 12) Ramsey Rotary Club is holding a community carol service with readings in Ramsey Methodist Hall starting at 7.30pm with contributions from the Cushag choir, House of Keys, Ramsey Commissioners, Rotary Club of Ramsey, Ramsey schools, Ramsey Chamber of Commerce and the Inner Wheel Club of Ramsey.

Then on Wednesday, December 18, starting at 5pm children from Bunscoill Rhumsaa will be singing in the Courthouse grounds where, on Saturday 21st from 4.30pm Ramsey Commissioners are inviting everyone to celebrate the festive season in a community ‘Christmas Songs at the Courthouse’ event. To decide the programme of songs and carols you can select up to 10 of your favourites from a list at www.ramseycourthouse.com. (Submissions must be received by December 17).

And finally, sounds of an altogether different kind - most likely gasps and screams – will be heard on New Year’s Day when the Ramsey RNLI Chilly Dip takes place from 11am in aid of Ramsey RNLI and Bunscoill Rhumsaa. (Registration at Ramsey RNLI station from 10am. Fancy dress optional). For more details contact Ramsey@rnli.org.uk.

Thursday, December 12

• Gym time active play for pre-school children, Manx Gymnastics Centre, Douglas, 9.30am. Call 625636. Also Friday and Wednesday.

• Happy Tots, main hall, Willaston School, 9.45am, £1 per family including refreshments. Call 621577.

• Storytime for pre-schoolers, Henry Bloom Noble Library, Douglas, 10am. Call 696461.

• Krafty Kids (pre-school age) Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 10am.

• Action Songs and Rhymes, birth-5 years, Ballasalla Primary School. Plus many other sessions across the island. Free, but donations welcome. Call 479452 for further venues and times.

• Arbory Tots, from birth, parish hall, Ballabeg, 2pm. Cost £1 per family. Call 832394.

• Toddler Tunes, Community Room, Michael School, 2pm. Call 878090.

• 2nd Onchan Beavers, Scout Headquarters, Onchan, 5pm.

• St John Ambulance Cadets (10+), 6.30pm-8pm, Douglas headquarters. Badgers (5+), 5.30pm-6.30pm, Age Concern in Peel. Adults meetings, Thursday, Monday and Tuesday, Douglas headquarters. Friday, Ramsey, St Olave’s Church hall. For all other times and venues call 674387.

• Santon Beavers, Kewaigue School, 5pm. Also Cubs at 6.30pm. Call 623244.

• Good News Club for primary school children, Living Hope Community Church, Bayview Road, Port St Mary, 6pm. Email weirfamily55@hotmail.co.uk

• The Children’s Centre Parent Support Group, informal chat with family support workers, at Douglas Family Centre, Woodbourne Road, Douglas, 7-9pm.

• Army Cadets, Scout Hall, Peel, 7pm. Also Tuesday.

• Onchan District Explorers, Scout Headquarters, Onchan, 7.30pm.

Friday, December 13

• Baby and Toddler Group, 9.30am-11.30am at Glen Maye Community Centre. Free but donations welcome. Call 845681.

• Baby and Toddler Group at Glen Maye Chapel, 9.30am-11.30am.

• Tiddlers, parents and tots, Elim Church, Onchan, 10am. Call 434933.

• Parents and tots, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 10am.

• Parent and toddler group, Ballasalla Primary School, 1.45pm.

• Theatrix Theatre Company Musical Theatre, Douglas, Saturday noon-2.30pm for ages 8-12. Also Saturday, Babies Irish/mod, 9am. Prep Ballet/Tap, 10am, Babies Ballet/Tap, 11am. Musical Theatre, ages 5-8. Monday, Senior Ballet, 4pm, Senior Tap, 5pm, Senior Jazz, 5.45pm, Adult Irish, 6.30pm. Tuesday, Community Ballet/Tap, 4pm. Beginners Irish, 4.45pm. Junior Irish, 5.30pm. Adult Tap, 6.15pm. Wednesday, Grade 2 Ballet/Tap, 4pm. Novice Irish, 5.30pm. Adult Ballet, 6.15pm.

• Mums and Tots, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 10am-noon. Call 479839.

• Storybox, Family Library, Westmoreland Road, Douglas, 10.30am-11am. Also Saturday, Sticky Fingers craft, 10.30am-noon; Alternate Wednesday, Busy Bee Time for pre-schoolers, 1.45pm-2.45pm. Tuesday, Sing and Sign with Nickie Gaskell, 11am-noon. Call 673123.

• Parents and Tots, upper room, Sulby Methodist Church, 10.30am. Call 897364.

• Onchan carers and tots, parish hall, Onchan, 1.15pm. Call 625328.

• Tiny Tunes, music time for 0-3s, Family Library, Westmoreland Road, Douglas, 1.30pm, £2.50. Call 673123.

• Sporty church at Trinity Church hall 6pm-7pm for years 3-6. Football, hockey, parachute games etc. 50 pence including refreshments. Call 628374. Also Sunday school Trinity Church hall, crèche to late teens, 10.30am-11.45am. Call 625409.

Sunday, December 15

• Sunday School, Sulby Methodist Church, 10.30am. Call 450104.

• ROCK Sunday Club for children at Colby Methodist Chapel, 10.30am - 11.30am.

• Task and DFC children’s club, Abbey Church, Ballasalla, 10.45am.

Monday, December 16

• Kittens tots and carers group, St Ninian’s Church, Douglas, 10.30am. £1 per family. Call 629683.

• Parents and tots, Dhoon Church hall, 9.30am. Call 426395.

• Parents and tots, St Olave’s Church, Ramsey, 1pm.

• Tots play at Northern Lights Community Centre, Ramsey, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Also tots craft and play on Wednesday, £1.

• Noah’s Ark Tots Group, Church on The Rock, behind Ramsey Bus Station, 9.30am. Call 223669.

• Breastfeeding Buddies drop-in clinic, Village Walk Health Centre, Onchan, 10.30am. Call 656030.

• Daniel’s Den, Methodist Church, Arbory Street, Castletown, 10am. Admission £1. Call 822374.

• Roll’n’Play for preschoolers, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 10.30am.

• Peel Toddler Group, Corrin Hall, Peel, 1.30pm.

• Michael Miniatures’ parents and tots, Ebenezer Hall, Kirk Michael, 2pm. £1.50 per family. Call 491592.

• Onchan Rainbows, 5.30pm. Also 1st Onchan Brownies, 6.30pm.

• Brownies, Corrin Hall, Peel, 6.30pm.

• Manannan Cubs, Scout Headquarters, Onchan, 7pm.

• Do Drop Inn Drama Club, children aged 10+, St Paul’s hall, Ramsey, 7pm.

Tuesday, December 17

• Parents and tots, Auldyn Infants School community room, Ramsey, 9.15am-11.15am.

• Parents and tots group, Cronk-y-Berry School, side entrance, 9.30am. Admission £1. Call 469756. Also Thursday, 1.30pm.

• Toddle Inn, mums and tots group, Port St Mary Living Hope Community Church, 9.30am. Call 835091.

• Super Saints, All Saints Church vestry, Douglas, 10am-11.15am. Call 427185.

• Laxey mums and tots, Laxey Pavilion, 1pm. Call 438408.

• Foxdale mums and tots, community hall, Foxdale School, 2pm. Call 420234.

• Abbey Acorns, ages 4+ at the Abbey Church, Ballasalla, 3.30pm.

• Peel Footlights Youth Theatre, children aged eight-16, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 4pm. Also Thursday. Call 843819.

• 2nd Onchan Beavers, Scout Headquarters, Onchan, 5pm.

Wednesday, December 18

• Parents and tots, Salvation Army Citadel, Lord Street, Douglas, 9.30am. Call 627742.

• Ballabeg Busy Bugs for under fives, Arbory parish hall, Ballabeg, 10am. Call 429676.

• Mums and tots, Marown hall, Peel Road, Crosby, 10.15am. £1.50 per family.

• Carers and tots, St James’ Schoolrooms, Dalby, 10.30am-noon. Call 843471 or cherylcousins@manx.net.

• Parent and toddler group, Castletown Youth Centre, Arbory Street, 2pm.

• Busy Bees parents and tots, Beehive Kindergarten, Onchan, 1.30pm. Also Thursday. Call 674655.

• Ballaquayle Bears Toddler Group, Ballaquayle School hall, 1.45pm-3pm.

• Homework Club for year 7s, Youth Centre, Arbory Street, Castletown, 4pm. Call 822490.

• The Energy Youth Group, Colby Methodist Chapel. 7pm-8.30pm. Call Jane 492010.

• Snaefell Cubs, Scout Headquarters, Onchan, 7pm.

Palace Cinema

• The Desolation of Smaug (12A). Nightly at 7pm.

• Frozen (PG). Nightly at 7.30pm. Saturday and Sunday 2.30pm.

• The Hobbit 2, 2D (12A). Saturday and Sunday 2pm.

Broadway Cinema

• Hunger Games: Catching Fire (12A). Nightly at 7.30pm. Wednesday, 1.30pm.

• Free Birds (U). Saturday and Sunday, 2.30pm and 5pm. Wednesday, 10.30am.

• The Christmas Candle (U). Saturday and Sunday noon.

Thursday, December 12

• Port Erin WI, Port Erin Methodist Church hall, 9.30am. Call 818194.

• Manx Retirement Association, Stretch and Flex at the NSC, Douglas at 10am. Also Saturday Grand Christmas Luncheon at the Mount Murray Golf Club, 1pm. Call 817007.

• Harbourside WI, St Paul’s Church hall, Ramsey, 10am. Call 818194.

• Northern Ladies Luncheon Club, One moment in time, 12.15pm at Ramsey Golf Club.

• Onchan Pensioners Club, Morton Hall, Castletown, coffee morning; Friday, sequence dancing, 2pm-4.30pm; Saturday, Arabian dancing, 9am-1pm; Monday, Bridge, 2pm-5pm and 7pm-11pm; Tuesday, coffee morning including raffle, 10am-noon; Wednesday, whist drive, 7pm-10pm.

• Avondale Afternoon WI, Morton Hall, Onchan, 2pm. Call 818194.

• Soundcheck, Youth Arts Centre, Douglas, 6.30pm. Also Monday and Tuesday, (6pm-9pm). Monday, Castletown YC (6pm-9pm) and Wednesday Ramsey YC (6.30pm-9.30pm).

• Kirk Bride WI, Bride Church hall, 7pm. Call 803804.

• Arbory WI, Colby Methodist hall, 7.15pm. .

• Port Soderick WI, recreation hall, 7.30pm. Call 818194.

• Parkfield WI, St Andrew’s Church hall, Douglas, 7.45pm. Call 818194.

Sunday, December 15

• Isle of Man Freethinkers, Douglas Yacht Club. 7pm-7.30pm.

Monday, December 16

• Onchan Jubilee WI, the Methodist Church hall, 10am. Call 818194.

• Mannin Art Group, 10am, at St Paul’s hall, Ramsey.

• Onchan and District WI, Onchan Church hall, 2pm.

• Onchan Ladies’ Choir, Methodist hall, 1.30pm. Call 673453.

• Vannin Bridge, Onchan pensioners hall, 2pm. Also Thursday.

• Possan Aeglagh Manx Speaking Youth Club School Year 6 upwards at Cafe Laare, Lord Street, Douglas, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, subs £1. Call Cathy Clucas on 414331 or email C.Clucas@doe.sch.im for further details.

• Onchan Rotary Club, The Max Restaurant, Groudle Road, 6.30pm.

• Onchan Silver Band practice, the band room, off Main Road, Onchan, beginners 6.30pm and seniors 7.30pm.

• Cornaa WI, Maughold Parish hall, 7.30pm. Call 818194.

• Sulby WI, St. Stephen’s Church Hall 7.30pm.

Tuesday, December 17

• St John’s Art and Craft Group, Methodist hall, 9.40am. Bring your own art and craft. Call 851364.

• Peel City WI, Guild Room, Athol Street, Peel, 10.30am. Call 818194.

• The Tuesday Group, flexible learning room to try your hand at basic crafts, have a chat, coffee and fun, Peel Clothworkers’ School, 1.15pm. Pre-school children catered for. Call 614180.

• Baldrine WI, Methodist Sunday School, Baldrine, 2pm. Call 818194.

• Isle of Man Chess Club, Belsfield Hotel, Church Road Marina, Douglas, 7.30pm. Call 495097.

• Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band rehearsals, Queen Street Mission Hall, 7.30pm.

• Rotary Club of Rushen and Western Mann meet Falcon’s Nest Hotel, Port Erin, 7.30pm.

• Michael WI, St Michael’s hall, Kirk Michael, 7.30pm. Call 818194.

• Michael WI, Kirk Michael Church hall, 7.30pm Call 818194.

• Mannin Quilters, Ballabeg Methodist hall, 7.30pm-9pm. Call 628921. Also Wednesday at St Columba’s Catholic Church, Port Erin, 1.30pm-4pm.

• Ballacottier Senior Youth Project for school years 10+, Ballacottier School Youth Room, 7.30pm-9.30pm.

• The Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society (IoMARS), Sea Cadet Hall, Tromode, 8.30pm-9.30pm.

Wednesday, December 18

• Wednesday, Laxey Sketch Club, 1.30pm-3.30pm, Laxey Football Clubhouse, Winter indoors, Summer outdoors.

• Sulby Art Club, 2pm-4pm at St Stephen’s Church hall. New members welcome. Call 488014.

• The Friendship Club for the over 60s, Onchan Baptist Church. Call 674255.

• Ballabeg WI, Methodist Sunday School, Ballabeg, 7.30pm. Call 818194.

• Castletown WI, Methodist hall, Arbory Street, Castletown, 7.20pm. Call 818194.

Thursday, December 12

• Age Concern - Free Computer Training Sessions, Douglas iMuseum, Kingswood Grove, 10am–12.30pm.

• Manx Footpaths Conservation Group Walk, Upper car park, Port Soderick, 10.30am. Sunday St Luke’s Church, Walk and Carols, 10.30. Also Tuesday, Laxey, Mines Road, 10.22am.

• Isle of Man Farmers’ Market, at Tynwald Mills, St John’s, 11am-3pm.

• Manx Gaelic class with Cathy Clucas, Arbory Commissioners’ hall, 7.30pm. Call 838527.

• Manx Gaelic class, intermediate-advanced with James Harrison 7.30pm at Arbory Commissioners’ hall. Friday, intermediate-advanced with Adrian Cain, noon at the Manx Museum. Saturday, intermediate 10.30am at House of Manannan in Peel; intermediate-advanced with James Harrison 10.30am at the Manx Museum, Douglas. Tuesday, intermediate with Adrian Cain, noon at St Matthew’s Church in Douglas, advanced 1pm at the Rovers pub in Douglas; beginners 7.30pm at Patchwork Cafe in Port St Mary. Call 451098.

• Regaby Social Club are holding thier annual Christmas Whist Drive at Masonic Hall, Lezayre Road, Ramsey. 7.30pm.

• FC United of Manchester IoM Supporters Group meeting, 8pm, at The Rovers Return, Douglas. Everyone welcome.

• Bingo Quiz, Manor Hotel, Willaston, 9pm.

• Quiz Night at The Railway, Douglas, 8.30pm. Call 670773.

Friday, December 13

• Willaston Weekly drop-in Centre, Willaston Methodist Church, Barrule Road, 10am-noon.

• The Castletown branch of IoM Anti-Cancer Association Christmas Fair, Castletown Civic Centre, 10am. Call Dorothy on 823016.

• Drop-in for coffee and a chat, Sulby Methodist Church, 10.30am-noon.

• The Manx Aviation and Military Museum, 10am-4.30pm. Also Saturday and Sunday, 10am-4.30pm. Free admission. Donations welcome.

• Coffee and chat, Onchan Methodist Church lounge, opposite commissioners’ office, 10.30am-noon.

• Relax Fridays noon-2pm, Trinity Church hall. Bring your sandwiches and enjoy free tea, coffee and company. Call 628374. Also Revive Fridays 5.30pm-6.30pm. Enjoy the company and a faith tea. Call 621004

• Friday Lunchtime Choir, Salvation Army Citadel, Lord Street, Douglas, 1.15pm. All welcome.

• A short concert at the Salvation Army Citadel, Lord Street., 1.30pm-1.45pm.

• Meditation at The Refinery, Duke Street, Douglas, 7pm. Call 467818.

• The Glenfaba Chorale Christmas Concert of carols and readings at Marown Church 7.30pm.

Saturday, December 14

• St Andrew’s Church, Glencrutchery Road, Douglas, Christmas Coffee Morning 10am to noon. Tickets £1. Everyone most welcome.

• Theatre Tours, Gaiety Theatre, Douglas, 10am. Tickets for adults £7.50, children £4, family £20. Call 600555.

• Laxey Woollen Mills, Glen Road, 10am-5pm. Also open weekdays.

• Green Centre, opposite Iceland, Chester Street complex, Douglas. Information about recycling, energy, insulation and environmental matters. Zero Waste Mann, Isle of Man Friends of the Earth and Manx Energy Advice Centre. Open from 10am.

• Isle of Man Farmers’ Market at Northern Lights Community Centre, Ramsey, 10am-1pm.

• Coffee and chat, St Mary’s on the Harbour, Castletown, 11am.

• Manx-style Christmas fayre, Peel Youth Centre. Noon-4pm

• Milntown House Tours every Saturday at 2pm. Call 812321.

Sunday, December 15

• Santa Trains, 10am-3.30pm. Fare only £6.

• Car Boot Sale, Morton Hall, Castletown, 2pm. Call 673320/481532.

• Bride Methodist Sunday School, Nativity Service at 2.30pm. Followed by tea/coffee and mince pies.

• Carol Services at St Cairbre’s, Colby, 3pm and 6.30pm at St Mary’s on

the Harbour in Castletown.

• Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band rehearsals, Queen Street Mission Hall, 7pm.

• Meditation and chat at Pure Inspiration, Ramsey, 7.15pm. Call Gary on 817735.

Monday, December 16

• Age Isle of Man - free computer sessions for people aged over 50 at House of Manannan, Peel. Lift available and coffee shop, 10am–12.30pm and 1.30pm–4.30pm.

• Afternoon Tea Dance every Monday, 2pm-4pm, Manx Legion Club, Douglas.

• Shorties, pirate adventure. Children’s Soft play centre, Alexandra road, Castletown, also Tuesday.

Tuesday, December 17

• Computers for Beginners, Onchan Library, 10am-noon. Call 621228.

• Manx Cancer Help drop-in day, Lisa Lowe Centre, The Old Schoolhouse, Cronkbourne, 11am-4pm.

• Cooill Carol Service at 7.30pm. Led by Rev Dee Dee Haines, Soloist Christine Bregazzi, Special items by the Young People. Everyone very welcome

Wednesday, December 18

• Computer Training Sessions for everyone. Leonard Cheshire Disability, Main Road, Onchan, 11am-3pm. Call 679030.

• Call in for coffee at St Peter’s Church, Onchan, 11am and 1pm.

• Bereavement support group, friendly get together for anyone feeling isolated or lonely after a bereavement, however or whenever it occurred, tea, coffee and a chat, Scholl Centre, Hospice Isle of Man, 5pm-7pm. Call 647443.

• Samba percussion workshop, no experience necessary, Onchan Silver Bandroom, off Onchan Commissioners’ car park, 7pm. Cost £3, email sambamann@manx.net

• Manx Gaelic class with James O’Meara, St John’s House, 7.30pm. Call 843436.

• Bingo Quiz, Archibald Knox Onchan.

Thursday, December 12

• Tea dance, South Douglas Old Friends’ Association, Finch Road, Douglas, 2pm.

• Dance classes for children, Centenary Centre, Peel, 4pm. Call 450688.

• Modern Line Dance classes for all levels at the Legion Hall, Onchan. Also Monday and Wednesday. Call 670308.

• Strictly Come Dancing for beginners, Royal British Legion Hall, Port Erin, 8pm. £3.50 per person.

• Irish set dancing above Macbeth’s, Victoria Street, Douglas, 8pm. Call 457268.

Friday, December 13

• 5pm-5.45pm under 6 years ballroom; 5.45pm-6.30pm 6-9 years ballroom; 6.30pm-7.15pm 9-12 years ballroom; 7.15pm-8pm 12+ years ballroom, St Matthew’s Church hall. Also Tuesday, 4pm-4.45pm under 8 years ballroom; 4.45pm-5.30pm Dynamites freestyle; 5.30pm-6.15pm 8-12 years ballroom; 6.15pm-7pm Energisers freestyle; 7pm-7.45pm 12+ years ballroom; 7.45pm-8.30pm Explosions freestyle. Call 474063.

• Modern Dance, Dance Factory, Onchan Park, 5.45pm. Also Thursday at 4.30pm. Tap Jnr, 6.45pm. Also Tap Adv at 7.30pm. Also Beginners Tap, Tuesday at 4.30pm.

• Argentinian Tango beginners class, St Paul’s hall, Ramsey, 7pm. Call 880650.

• Line Dancing, Ebenezer Hall, Kirk Michael, 7pm. Beginners welcome, adults £3.50, children £1.50. Call 878687.

Saturday, December 14

• Dance Time for children, Port Erin Methodist hall, from 9.30am. £2.50 per half hour. Call 835696.

• Ballroom dancing for children of all ages, Royal British Legion hall, Port Erin, 10am.

• Irish Dance Mixed 3pm. Also Prim/Int on Monday at 4.30pm and Tuesday at 6.15pm. Beginners on Tuesday at 5.15pm. Stage Snr 4pm. Also Stage Int at 5pm, Dance Factory, Onchan Park.

• Sequence dancing, Onchan Pensioners hall, (across from library) 8pm. Call 829669.

• Social sequence dancing, Pulrose Methodist Church hall, Douglas, 8pm. Also Monday, Wednesday and Sunday. Call 842878.

Sunday, December 13

• Perree Bane Manx folk dancing, Ballasalla village hall, 7pm.

Monday, December 16

• Ballet, Viking Works, Riverside, Peel, 5.45pm. Also Thursday at 4.30pm.

• Country dancing, Willaston hall, 7pm-9pm. Call 628521.

• Ceroc dance night, Masonic Hall, Douglas, 7.30pm-10.30pm.

• Line dancing, Port Erin Methodist Church hall, 8.15pm. Call 436219.

Tuesday, December 17

• Oriental Dance Exercise, Gena’s Dance Academy, Peel, 10am. Also Wednesdays, The Gym, Ramsey. Call 300020.

• Linedancercise at John’s football clubhouse every Tuesday evening 7.30pm-9pm call 467285.

• Sequence dancing with Port Erin Dancing Club, Port Erin Methodist Church hall, 8pm. £1.50.

Wednesday, December 18

• Tea Dance at St John’s Methodist hall, live music with Eric and Jimmy, 2pm. Call 842548.

• Ballroom dancing for children, Centenary Centre, Peel, 4pm. Call 450688.

• Ballet, Dance Factory, Onchan Park, 4.30pm.

• Latin Line Dancing, 7.30pm. Beginners welcome. Royal British Legion Hall, Port Erin, 835098.

• Ballroom dancing, Villa Marina, Douglas, 8pm. Call 623414.

• Rhythmic dance, St Ninian’s dance studio, Douglas, 8pm.

Thursday, December 12

•Free Female Football Fitness Sessions, NSC sports hall, Thursdays 7am – 8am, also noon-1pm. Michael.baker@isleofmanfa.com.

• Zumba at 9.30am-10.15am, Total Tone at 10.15am, call Jane 201811. Legs, bums and tums at 7pm-8pm, call Lisa 438150. Also Monday, High Intensity Circuits at 6.30am, Wednesday and Friday 6.30am, call Shelley 487270. School Drop Boot Camp at 9.30am, also Wednesday and Friday at 6.30am, call Errol on 488105. Vibro-Step classes at 12.15pm and 7.15pm, also on Wednesday’s and Friday’s at 12.15pm-12.45pm and Tuesday’s and Fridays at 9.15am-9.45am, call Shelly 487270. Tuesday, Tae-Bo on Tuesday’s at 5.45pm-6.30pm, Kettlebells at 6.30pm-7.15pm, call Kate 347160. Wednesday, Kettlebell Core, 6pm-7pm, also Saturday’s at 9.30am-10.30am, Call Kelly 220220. Elite Fitness, Douglas.

• Thighs, Bums and Tums, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 9.30am. Also Tuesday. Call 335635.

• Yoga, Iyengar (mixed) 9.30am-11am, Tuesday (men only class) 7pm-8.30pm; Wednesday (mixed) 6.45pm-8.15pm, 10 Perwick Bay, Port St Mary. Call 452791.

• Wheelie Active Parents (mums and buggies) 9.30am – 11am, Villa Marina reception, £2. Also Walk and talk, Peel promenade, outside Harbour Lights Cafe, 9.45am – 11.30am, £1.50. Friday, Walk and Talk, NSC, 9.30am–11.30am; also Mondays: Poulsom Park, Castletown, 9.45am – 11.30am, £1.50. Racquet Sports and Boccia, 12.15pm–1pm NS., £1.75, Walk and Talk, 5.30pm–7pm, NSC, £1.50. Tuesdays: Walk and Talk, NSC, 9.30am–11.30am, £1.50. Walk and Talk, Ramsey Mooragh Park, (meet Rugby Club), £1.50. 9.30am–11.30am Call Gianni 688556.

• Pilates 9.30am and 10.45am, Hot Yoga 6pm and 7.30pm, Friday, Kettlebells 7am and 1.10pm, Get Yoga Fit 10am, Hot Yoga 6.30pm, Saturday, Hot Yoga, 10am and 11.30am, Sunday, Hot Yoga 10am and 11.30am , Monday, Kettlebells 7am and 1.10pm, Get Yoga Fit 10am, Warm Pilates 5pm, Hot Yoga for Beginners 6.30pm, Tuesday, 7am Hot Yoga, 5.30pm Pilates, Wednesday, Kettlebells 7am and 1.10pm, Get Yoga Fit 10am, Hardcore 6 pack ABS 5.45pm, Pilates 6.30pm at The Gym, Ramsey 812100.

• Fitness league exercise class, Ballafesson Church hall, Port Erin, 10.30am. Call 832759.

• Gentle Circuits, NSC, Douglas, 11am. Also Saturday. Call 688588.

• Pilates 2pm, 5.30pm and 7pm beginners to intermediate, 38 Woodbourne Square, Douglas. Call 491449.

• Chair-based exercise sessions, Onchan Youth and Community Centre, 1.30pm. Also Friday, Port Erin Methodist Church hall, 2pm; Monday, Ramsey town hall, 10.30am; Tuesday, Castletown Sandfield residents’ lounge, 2pm; Wednesday, Westlands’ residents’ lounge, Peel, 10.30am. Call 642668.

• Tai Chi Chuan, Lezayre parish hall, 2pm. Call 813222.

• Iyengar inspired yoga classes, Children’s Yoga, 3.45pm-4.45pm, reception to Year 3 and 4.45pm-5.45pm, Year 4 to teenagers. Men’s Yoga, 6.30pm-8pm, mixed ability. Hatha Yoga, Monday, 9.15am-10.45am mixed ability for over 60s. Monday, 11am-12.30pm, Hatha Yoga. Wednesday, 7pm-8.30pm mixed ability. All at Laxey Football Club. Call Jane on 863130 or janepycroft@manx.net

• Unite, mixture of Yoga and Pilates, 4pm-5pm. Also, Friday’s 6pm Legs Bums and Tums, 7pm Aerial Suspension Fitness. Saturdays 9.30am Zumba and 10.30am Aerial Fitness. Mondays 6pm Zumba and 7pm Aerial Yoga. Tuesdays 6pm, Fitness Pilates and 7pm Kettlebells. Wednesdays 6pm, High Intensity Interval Training and Fitness Yoga, Jillian’s Unique Fitness Solutions 48 Loch Promenade Douglas.

• Manx Fencing Club, Ashley Hill School, Onchan, 4pm. Also seniors at Ballakermeen High School, Douglas, 5pm; Tuesday, Arbory village hall, beginners at 4pm and Grade 1+ 5pm; Wednesday, Ramsey Grammar School, juniors at 5pm and seniors at 6pm, also at Ebenezer Hall, Kirk Michael, juniors at 6.30pm and adults at 7.30pm.

• Southern Gymnastics Club, Ballasalla School, 4pm. Also Tuesday, Castle Rushen High School, 5pm. Call 473741.

• Northern Gymnastics Club, Ramsey Grammar School, 5pm.

• Men on Mats - Core Strength/Pilates Class Thursdays 6pm-7pm. £8. Jillian’s Unique Fitness Solutions, 48, Loch Promenade, Douglas. Call 376574.

• Anti-gravity Yoga at Savinas Secret Studio, Glen Falcon Road, Douglas. 6.30pm. Call 203502.

• Western Athletics Club, QEII High School, 6.30pm.

• Zumba, Carrefour Health Club, Douglas, 6.30pm. Also Monday, 8pm; Wednesday, 9.45am.

• Cardiotone, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 7pm-8pm. Also Monday 7pm-8pm. Call 452729/863602.

• Peel Badminton Club, Corrin Hall, Peel, 7pm.

• Aquafit, Western Swimming Pool, Peel, 7pm. Also Tuesday, 1.15pm.

• Aerobics and body toning, bring your own mat, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 7pm. Also Monday, Park View Hall, Kirk Michael. Call 455924.

• Yoga, Cooil Methodist hall, 7.15pm. Call 494489.

• Fencing for all ages. Ashley Hill School, 7.30pm. Also Monday, Andreas parish hall, 4.30pm; Tuesday, Arbory Parish hall, 4pm and Ebenezer Hall, Kirk Michael, 6.30pm; Wednesday, Scoill Ree Gorree sports hall, Ramsey, 5pm. Call 880863.

• Pole fitness class at Savinas Secret Studio, Glen Falcon Road, Douglas. 7.45pm. Call 203502.

• Zumba, The Dance Factory, Onchan Park, 7.30pm. Call 425270. Also Tuesday.

Friday, December 13

• Pilates The Isle Gallery, Tynwald Mills, at 9.30am and The Studio, Falcon Road, Douglas, at 1pm; Monday - The Isle Gallery, Tynwald Mills at 9.30am and Colby Methodist hall at 6.15pm; Wednesday - The Studio, Falcon Road, Douglas 9.30am and The Isle Gallery, Tynwald Mills at 5.15pm and 6.30pm. Equipment provided. Ring Lizzy Main on 427401 or visit http://pilates-isle-of-man.co.uk

• Zumba Classes at Silvercraigs Hotel, Queen’s Promenade, 9.45am and 10.25am. Creche facility. Zumba Masterclass for beginners, Zumba Gold and Zumba fitness classes for women and mums and tots. Also Tuesday.

• Acrobatics, Dance Factory, Onchan Park, 4.30pm.

• Manx ABC Boxing, Palace Terrace, Douglas. Juniors, 6pm. Seniors (age 16+), 7pm. Beginners welcome. Also Monday and Wednesday.

• Yoga, Morton Hall, Onchan, 6.30pm. Call 494489.

• Tai chi chuan, Murray’s Road School, 7.30pm. Call 612305.

• Indoor bowls, Legion Hall, Port St Mary, 7.30pm. No experience necessary.

Saturday, December 14

• Pregnancy yoga, All Saints hall, Douglas, 10am. Call 461461.

• Yoga, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 10.15am. Also Monday.

• Yoga, Arbory parish hall, 10.30am. Call 494489.

• Fun and fitness, NSC, Douglas, 11am-noon. Call 688588.

• St Mary’s football club mixed under 11s training, Pulrose football fields, 10.30am. Call 405859.

• Tae Kwondo beginners, Pinewood Complex, Pulrose, 10.45am. Also 6-7yrs, Wednesdays at 5.30pm and Monday and Wednesday, 8-13yrs at 6pm, all ages at 7.15pm. Text 432152.

Sunday, December 15

• Yoga and Nutrition, Karma Yoga Studio, Douglas. 6-7.30pm.

Monday, December 16

• Women’s activity morning, NSC, Douglas, 9.30am. Call 688556.

• Beginners Yoga, 10am, Karma, 2nd Floor, 8 Victoria Street, Douglas. Also at 10am (over 60s half price £5).

• Begin to Run ( running club for all abilities), Douglas seafront, meet Jubilee Kiosk, noon – 1pm, cost £2, call Trevor Christian for more details on, 688576.

• Stretch ‘n Flex exercise, NSC, Douglas, noon. Call 688588.

• Disability Swimming Sessions, NSC, Douglas 3pm-4pm, £1.55. Also Tuesday, 6pm-7pm.

• Aquafit, NSC, Douglas, 1.30pm. Also Tuesday at noon and Wednesday at 6pm. Plus Deepwater Aquafit on Monday at 7.15pm, and Thursday Deepwater at 6pm. Call 688556.

• Circuit Training, NSC, Douglas, 6pm. Also Wednesday at 6pm. Call 688588.

• Exercise Boot Camp, Corrin Hall, Peel, 6.15pm. Also Wednesday, Philip Christian Centre, Peel, 6pm; Thursday, Glen Vine Church hall, 9.15am.

• Cardiotone, Laxey Working Men’s Institute, 7pm. Also Thursday. Call 452729.

• Women’s self-defence classes, British Legion hall, Port Erin, 7.30pm.

• Kirk Michael Badminton Club, Park View hall, 8pm. Call 878536.

Tuesday, December 17

• Fit2Go walking sessions, car park, Station Road, St John’s, 9am. For women looking to improve their fitness. £3.

• Pilates 9.15am 38 Woodbourne Square, Douglas. Pilates 6.15pm Trinity Church, Ramsey. Also, Balance and Pilates 1.30pm Cooyrt Balleigh, Ramsey, (no floor exercise). Call 491449.

• Cheerleading, All Saints Church hall, 4.30pm. Call 254499.

• Pilates, the hall at Church on The Rock, Ramsey, 6.15pm. Call 491449.

• Zumba, Fiesta Havana, Douglas, 7pm. Email sjh@manx.net

• Tai Chi Chuan, Lezayre parish community hall, 7pm.

• IoM Karate Federation, Murray’s Road School, Juniors 7pm, Seniors 7.30pm. Call 612305.

• Badminton club, Arbory School, Ballabeg, 8pm. Call Liz on 466370.

• Early Morning Boot Camp, 6.15am-7am. Also Wednesday and Friday. Evening Boot Camp, 6pm-6.45pm, Tuesday and Thursday, and 9am-9.45am Saturday. Also Kettlebell Classes, Wednesday, 6pm-7pm, Saturday, 8am-8.45am, Marown Millennium Hall. Call 465335.

Wednesday, December 18

• Gentle yoga, women’s class, Gena’s Dance Academy, Peel, 9.30am. Call 456782.

• Balance and Pilates 10.30am Manx Legions Club, Douglas. (No floor exercise). Call 491449.

• Gentle body toning, NSC, Douglas, 11am. Call 688588

• Chair-based exercises/Stretch and flex, NSC, Douglas, noon. Call 688588.

• Thompson Travel Netball Club junior training, Braddan School, 6pm. For ages 10-14.

• Valkyrs Hockey Club training, QEII astro pitch, Peel. Juniors (8+), 6pm; Seniors (13+), 7.30pm. Call 801802.

• Iyengar inspired yoga, 6pm-7.30pm, Brightlife, Andreas. Call Kel on 452015.

• Bowling club night, Port Erin Bowling Club, Breagle Glen, 6.30pm.

Thursday, December 12

• A Carol Service will be held at the Ramsey Methodist Centre, Waterloo Road at 7.30pm.

• Karaoke, Guys and Dolls, Douglas.

• Ramsey Folk Club at The Britannia, Ramsey, 8pm.

• Karaoke with Ray Sloane at The Saddle Inn, Douglas.

• Guitar lessons at the meeting room, Archibald Knox, Onchan, 5.45pm-6.45pm.

• Alternative Havana, Fiesta Havana, Douglas. Also, Friday - Full On Fridays.

Friday, December 13

• Open Mic night at The Cat with No Tail, Douglas.

• Ian Thompson at The Railway, Douglas.

• Brown Sugar at The Sidings, Castletown.

• Shoh Slaynt at The Sulby Glen.

• Grass Roots at Jaks, Douglas.

• DJ Tim, Second Venue, 21 Victoria Street, Douglas, 8pm. Also Saturday.

• Karaoke at The Albert, Douglas, 9pm.

• Irish Traditional Music session at The Mitre, Ramsey, 9pm.

Saturday, December 14

• Us at The Cat with No Tail, Douglas.

• Ian Thompson at The Pinewood, Pulrose.

• Penthouse Dive, at Jaks, Douglas.

• St Paul’s Church – Ramsey Choral’s Christmas Concert. 7.30pm. Admission free. Retiring collection.

• Isle of Man Department of Education and Children Music Service, The Manx Youth Orchestra Christmas Festival Concert 2013, Royal Hall, Villa Marina, at 7.30pm. Tickets; £9.50, £8.50, and £7.50.

• Manx music session, The Whitehouse, Peel, 10pm.

• Karaoke with Dobbo at the Decks, Liverpool Arms, Baldrine.

• Karaoke at the Central Hotel, Ramsey.

Sunday, December 15

• Karaoke with Ray Sloane at Jaks, Douglas.

• One Wo/Man One Guitar at The Horse and Plough, IOM Business Park, Douglas. Featuring Indigo Blues and Susan Coyle and Jackie Buckham. 8pm.

• St German’s Festival Organ Recital, 4.30pm.

• Music Box with David Castro at Guys and Dolls, Douglas.

• Karaoke at The British, Douglas.

• Karaoke at The Crescent, Queen’s Promenade, Douglas, 8pm.

• Disco Fever at Macbeth’s, Second Venue, Douglas, 10pm-2am.

Monday, December 16

• Fellowship Carol Service, 7.30pm, Peel Methodist Chapel, Atholl Street. Led by Karen and John Elliott with guest choir Sheeanyn Millish and soloist Erin Lacey

Tuesday, December 17

• Manx Youth Orchestra, St German’s Cathedral, 7.45pm–8.45pm

• Acoustic sing-around, The Manor, Willaston, 8.30pm.

• Rock Choir, Youth Arts Centre, Kensington Road, Douglas, 6pm.

Wednesday, December 18

• Brown Sugar at Jaks, Douglas.

• Karaoke at The British, Douglas.

The island’s director of education, Martin Barrow, is to retire next Easter.

It will bring to an end 36 years working for first the Board of Education and then the Department of Education and Children.

After training as a teacher in London, Mr Barrow began his career at Albert Road Junior School in Ramsey. Here he became involved in Manx culture and trained children in Manx dancing and music in his spare time. Together with colleagues, he pioneered the use of computers to support learning and in 1985 he was seconded to the then Board of Education to establish their use across primary schools.

A period as deputy headteacher of Willaston School preceded his appointment as headteacher of Andreas School in 1994.

Mr Barrow said: ‘I will always look back at my time as head of Andreas with affection and pride. It was a privilege to work with all members of the school community but especially the children and a particular highlight was the centenary celebrations, which involved the whole Andreas community and led us to develop new approaches to how the children were learning.’

In 2004 Mr Barrow was seconded from his headship for two days a week to establish a training programme for primary school leaders and, in 2005, an opportunity arose for him to join the Department’s Education Improvement Service as an adviser and he left his headship post.

In 2007, Mr Barrow became responsible for primary education when he was appointed co-ordinating adviser for 3-11 Education and two years later he became head of the Education Improvement Service as senior adviser.

Following the appointment of the department’s first chief executive officer in January 2011, and the subsequent reorganisation of its management structure, Mr Barrow became director of education.

Commenting on his retirement, Mr Barrow said: ‘I have had a long and rewarding career in education in the island and in the last few years have relished the challenge of helping to provide the department with strategic leadership, albeit at a time of significant financial constraint.’

Mr Barrow is married to Jacqueline, headteacher at Bunscoill Rhumsaa, and they have two grown-up sons, one of whom has followed his parents into education and teaches in Leicestershire, while the other works in commercial finance in London.

He is looking forward to having more time to engage in activities such as travelling, cycling and walking as well as to work on restoring his classic MG Midget sports car.

Professor Ronald Barr, CEO of the Department of Education and Children, said Mr Barrow’s depth of knowledge across the spectrum of education would be greatly missed.

He said: ‘Martin has done much to improve the quality and delivery of education in the island. His professionalism, dedication and detailed knowledge will be much missed by colleagues both in the department and in schools. He has been an invaluable member of the senior management team and has done much to support many colleagues during his time at DEC. On behalf of the whole education service, I want to thank him for all that he has done and wish him a happy retirement.’

The position will be advertised shortly.

This is not a ‘smash and grab raid’ on the Water Authority’s sinking fund.

In Tynwald, Treasury Minister Eddie Teare defended plans to merge the Manx Electricity Authority with the Water and Sewerage Authority.

He said that following analysis, the Council of Ministers had concluded that the merge may bring about savings and synergies that debt repayments can be funded without recourse to further Treasury funding.

‘It is expected that the combined revenues of a Manx Utilities Authority will meet the full operational activities and debt obligations,’ he said.

But Peter Karran (Lib Van, Onchan) suggested that this was ‘cash grab’ on the sinking fund set up by the Water Authority in 2005.

The repayment fund, into which surplus income over expenditure is invested, was set up with the aim of ensuring the £75 million bond issued in 2000 to fund infrastructure renewal works, is repaid in full by March 2030.

Mr Teare said he appreciated Mr Karran’s concerns but insisted: ‘It’s not a raid on the sinking fund. This is not a smash and grab.

‘We are taking a long-term strategic view. We’ve been accused of short-termism in the past.’

The proposed merger of the WASA and the MEA was announced last week as part of the government’s restructuring plan.

Mr Teare said that before the debate on the proposed merger, which is scheduled for next month’s Tynwald sitting, he would be happy to share the financial projections with members.

Today, Thursday

HUNTINGDON SELECTIONS: 12.30 Brians Well 1.0 Une Artiste 1.30 Roberto Pegasus 2.0 Captain Chris 2.30 Rosa Parks 3.0 Go West Young Man 3.30 Brother Tedd

NEWC ASTLE TIPS: 1.20 A Little Bit Dusty 1.50 Prince Tam 2.20 Next Hight 2.50 Get The Papers

TAUNTON PICKS: 12.40 Calaf 1.10 Halucha 1.40 Workbench 2.10 Aerial 2.40 Seaside Shuffle 3.10 Rusty Nail

KEMPTON CHOICE: 3.50 Ryedale Lass 4.20 Island Kingdom 4.50 Wilhana 5.20 Porteous 5.50 Starlight Princess 6.20 Captain Cat (NAP) 6.50 Loyalty (NB)

Problems involving the multi-million pound improvements at Ronaldsway airport were revealed in Tynwald.

Infrastructure Minister David Cretney MHK confirmed there had been some settlement in grassed areas of the runway promontory - and the UK regulator has yet to sign off approvals for the new radar system.

Replying to a question from Peter Karran (Lib Van, Onchan), Mr Cretney said: ‘I have been made aware there has been some settlement in the grassed areas to the south of the main runway within the promontory area, which was to be expected with a civil engineering project of the scale we undertook in 2008 to 2010.’

He said the areas of settlement are being monitored regularly, both locally and by the main contractor Balfour Beatty and their designer, to ‘ensure the integrity of the structure’.

But he insisted the areas affected were well away from the runway itself and were causing no operational problems. He said Balfour Beatty would be responsible for making good any remedial works.

Mr Karran pointed out that £26m of taxpayers’ money had been spent on the promontory extension.

There have been problems, too, with the £3.4m replacement radar system, the first of its kind to be used in the British Isles.

Mr Cretney explained the old radar was still having to be used as the replacement one had yet to be granted a full operation licence.

He told the court: ‘The work involved in the installation of the new secondary radar and replacement primary radar has not been without its challenges.’

The Minister said there were three very distinct groups involved in the project - the UK regulator overseeing the engineering and safety documentation, the UK arm of contractor Selex, and the contractor’s Italian arm which did all the engineering and technology for both installation and documentation.

He said: ‘The new radars are fully operational and have been for some considerable time.

‘However, the amount of observations and evidence required to secure approvals for a brand new system, being the first in the British Isles for airport use, have been far greater and more detailed than could have been foreseen.’

Mr Cretney said he expected the observations to be completed in mid-2014 when a full operational licence, rather than a temporary one, could be granted.

Listing the problems, he cited documentation issues surrounding language, format and understanding of the UK regulatory process, complexity of flight trials, internal issues with Selex UK and Italy and the sheer volume of observations required. He said there had been issues of access, ownership and lease arrangements concerning the 19 radar sites around the island.

Treasury member Phil Braidwood MLC pointed out the problems concerned the primary radar not the secondary radar which he said was working well.

Juan Turner MLC asked why the old radar was still operating when it was ‘out of licence’.

Mr Cretney replied that its licence had been extended because of the problems with the new radar.

But Mr Karran asked: ‘Why do we keep having these situations? Will these people be held to account to justify their fees?’

Mr Cretney replied: ‘Of course, they will be held to account.’ He said that he was not convinced that it had been the right route to follow in installing a radar that was the first of its type in the British Isles.

The radar project was approved by Tynwald in 2010. Since 2008, the airport has spent £37m on the runway extension, £6.5m on a new air traffic control tower, £3m to upgrade aircraft taxiways, £3.4m to replace the radar system, £628,000 on a new perimeter fence and £3m on a new baggage handling and screening facility.

The closing date for entries for the popular SCS Relay on Boxing Day is 10pm this Saturday. The event takes place on Boxing Day round the Ballannette estate in Lonan, starting at 9.30am.

Stuart Clague has kindly granted permission for competitors to look over the course at any time over the next two weekends.

The event is a four-leg handicapped relay. Legs one and four are over two laps of the course (approximately 6.6 miles), minimum age 18. The middle two will be over one lap (appx 3.3 miles), minimum age 15. The overall distance per team is about 20 miles.

The terrain is mainly firm and gently undulating and is comfortable to run on. There is one steep climb in the middle of the lap after crossing Clay Head Road.

The handicap will be based on 10km road times and the slowest team will set off at 9.30am followed by the others at regular intervals.

A family event has been introduced this year to take place after the conclusion of the relay, around 1pm. There will be a fun run open to younger athletes aged seven to 14 over a shorter version of the relay (appx one mile). All runners will start together and all will receive a prize. No entry forms, simply turn up on the day and pay a £2 fee.

More information, including a course map and entry form, available at www.manxharriers.com

Fixtures at a glance:

Wednesday, January 1 - Round one of 2014 Wi-Manx Fell Running League, Slieau Whallian. Signing on will be in St John’s FC clubhouse.

Round two will be based at Ard Whallin, East Baldwin, on January 25.

Sunday, January 19 - Microgaming Isle of Man Cross Country League (round 4 of 5).

To list your event in the column, email sportsdesk@newsiom.co.im or phone 695654.

Isle of Man snooker sensation Darryl Hill recorded arguably the biggest result of his career so far when he beat number one seed Amir Sarkhosh in the IBSF World Championships.

The Manx teenager successfully negotiated his way through the group stages of the competition at Daugavpils Olympic Sports Centre in Latvia where he beat Shuji Hase, Jason Williams and Sergey Vasiliev all 4-0 and Antti Mannila 4-1.

These results set up a last-64 clash with Austria’s Andreas Ploner and again the 17-year-old won 4-0 to progress to a last-32 tie against Sarkhosh.

In an exciting match, the Manxman went 2-1 up before the no1 seed hit back to open up a 3-2 lead. However, Hill soon levelled match at 4-4 before he hit a 49 break in the final frame to seal a stunning victory to set up a last-16 clash with Mohamed Shehab from United Arab Emirates.

Unfortunately this was where Darryl’s adventure ended as he lost 2-5, with Shehab progressing to the quarter-finals.

Bank card details and other personal information are being requested by hoax callers claiming to represent the Manx Electricity Authority.

The MEA wishes to alert customers to the threat posed by these fraudsters, who offer an alternative tariff if the victim hands over specific details.

Residents should be aware that these calls do not originate from the MEA and they should not, under any circumstances, disclose personal information.

If you have any concerns regarding these calls, contact the MEA customer services team directly on 687687.

The Isle of Man Constabulary has received reports that Manx businesses have been contacted and asked to make donations in relation to ‘crime prevention issues’.

The caller has stated that he is calling on behalf of the Isle of Man Constabulary Crime Prevention Unit.

Constable Radcliffe, the force crime reduction officer, stated: ‘I would wish to make it clear to the public that we would never approach businesses in this way. This individual has no links to the force and is not working on our behalf.

‘Please be aware that there is always a risk that scammers may try to target businesses during periods such as the lead up to Christmas. They are aware that staff will be busy and may therefore be more susceptible to this type of activity.

‘Remember – be cautious - you should never disclose any financial information during a ‘cold call’ telephone conversation.’

If you’ve received calls of this nature, contact police headquarters on 631212.

The trial of the island’s Attorney General has been adjourned until tomorrow (Friday), when a jury will continue its deliberations.

Stephen Harding, aged 52, of Glen Vine, denies charges of perjury and committing acts against public justice.

The seven-member jury retired to consider its verdict just after 1pm on Wednesday.

St John’s School head teacher Nigel Bennett is to retire next summer.

Mr Bennett, who is the longest-serving primary school head teacher, won’t be putting education behind him.

Learning Portuguese and taking up a new musical instrument are among the challenges Mr Bennett will set himself when his 37-year teaching career comes to an end in July.

He has headed St John’s School since 1991 and oversaw the move to the present building – which the Queen visited – in 2003.

He qualified at Bingley College, Leeds University, in 1977 and initially worked as a supply teacher across all age ranges. He started teaching full time at Parkwood Junior School in Keighley, West Yorkshire. He met his future wife, Jill, a Manxwoman, at this time and moved to the Isle of Man to get married.

Mr Bennett’s first local appointment was at Fairfield Junior School in 1979. Four years later he was promoted to head of PE at Peel Clothworkers’ School. After an enjoyable three years there, he gained promotion to the deputy headship at Jurby Community School in 1987.

He will start his 24th year at St John’s after Christmas.

‘St John’s is a place that gets into your blood and I enjoy it so much I have never moved,’ he said. ‘I had the chance to be part of the design team for the new school, holding the budget for all resources and being able to choose colour schemes, furniture, etc. It proved to be the opportunity of a lifetime and one not many heads get the chance to experience. The decision to stay at St John’s is one I have never regretted.’

Mr Bennett said his happy memories of the school were too numerous to list but he said: ‘The main high point for me has been the people I have worked with at St John’s: the terrific staff and great children. The support I have received from parents and the community has been wonderful. It has been a real privilege to have worked here. The Isle of Man is the best place to be a head teacher as you are able to implement your own vision and beliefs.’

Jill Bennett, a teacher at Sulby School, is also retiring next year and the couple plan to travel.

They have a son, James, who lives in Rio, and Mr Bennett hopes learning Portuguese will help him converse with future grandchildren. The couple also have daughters Bryony, who lives and works in the UK, and Aalish, who is travelling in South East Asia.

Mr Bennett intends to return to playing regular golf, get back into painting (he trained as an art teacher) and see more of the football team he supports, Leicester City.

He’ll continue as a validator for Investing in Children, a scheme that has so far accredited nine local schools for listening to pupils’ views.

Martin Barrow, director of education and children, said: ‘Mr Bennett has been a popular and energetic head teacher who, for more than half his career, has led the development of St John’s school from a small village primary school into a full one-form entry school of more than 180 pupils based in an attractive, modern building.

‘Throughout that time, Mr Bennett has provided the school with a clear sense of purpose and vision, integral to which has been the involvement of the pupils in decision-making as well as close partnerships with parents and the local community.

‘Beyond school, Mr Bennett has been involved in many DEC initiatives and in particular has been a driving force behind schools moving forward to gain Investing in Children accreditation.

‘I know he’ll be greatly missed by everyone at the school and also by the wider education community. I am sure everyone who knows Mr Bennett would want to join with the department in wishing him a long, healthy and happy retirement.’

The headship of the 187-pupil school will be advertised shortly.

The directors of Advocates Smith Taubitz Unsworth Ltd congratulated Debbie Myerscough on passing the Manx Bar exams on her first attempt and well within her first year of training. Debbie started her legal career as a legal executive and worked her way through the ILEX qualifications before going on to undertake a Law Degree and Post Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice.

Debbie qualified as an English solicitor earlier this year and passing her Manx Bar exams is the end to 15 years of studying to achieve her goal. Debbie’s success is testament to her hard work and dedication to study while holding down a full time job as well as undertaking her role as a wife and mother.

Debbie said: ‘I would like to say thank you to my family for all their years of patience and support. I would also like to thank the firm for the significant efforts made to support me through what are the most challenging set of exams I have ever had to sit’.

Debbie will finally qualify as a Manx advocate upon expiry of her training contract in February 2015.

The winner of the Apprentice of the Year 2013 title has been named as Michael Williamson, of RLC Ronaldsway.

The Apprentice of the Year award recognises the best apprentice on the final year of the Engineering and Manufacturing Sector Apprenticeship Scheme.

The scheme is a joint programme between the Isle of Man College and engineering companies running over a four-year period to mentor students to develop the required engineering skills through activities at both the college and work-based learning.

Each of the participating companies selected the best craft and technician projects which were then put forward at the judging event.

Each apprentice gave a 15-minute presentation on their project to the judges detailing the need, concept, development, merits and implementation where applicable.

The judging panel was formed of Bills Shimmins, managing director of the Isle of Man Bank, Chris Allen, general manager of GE Aviation, Dave Waters, general manager of RLC Ronaldsway and Dave Hester, general manager of Swagelok.

The judges’ scores confirmed the high standard of projects and in particular the closeness of entries and presentation – 20 marks differentiated all entries out of 200.

Michael Williamson was awarded Apprentice of the Year for his project to improve the speed and repeatability of measuring aspects during the gear wheel manufacturing process without the need to remove the gear wheel from the manufacturing machine. A trial has demonstrated the considerable benefits of this project and implementation from prototype is under way.

Educated at Queen Elizabeth II High School, Peel, and Isle of Man College, Michael continues to study for his Level 4 Higher National Certificate while undertaking his apprenticeship at RLC Ronaldsway.

Other projects/nominations presented were:

Coolant spill reduction - Alex Santi (GE Aviation), corrective action process flow - Frank Stennett (RLC Ronaldsway), Enhanced transportation trolley - Chris Killey (Swagelok) and machine set up reduction process - Olly Megson (Swagelok).

The Isle of Man Bank sponsored the scheme.

Managing director Bill Shimmins said: ‘We are pleased to be part of a scheme that recognises young people who are gaining vital skills in engineering which in turn supports a diversified Manx economy.’

Adrian Harrison, engineering sector skills champion, said: ‘It’s great to see our Apprentices demonstrating not only the technical skills they have developed during their apprenticeship but also their presentational skills in this competition. Our companies now look to implement the projects into the working environment releasing the benefits of everyone’s hard work. Well done to you all.’