A TEST run to see if an 18-tonne delivery van could deliver to the new Tesco Express store in Castletown ended in failure when they found it was impossible for the van to turn at the top of Bank Street.

The van went over Thirtle Bridge, up Bank Street and the plan was for it to turn right and go for a short distance into Malew Street and then reverse slightly to a point outside the store and leave again via Bank Street.

However, when they tried to do the manoeuvre on Thursday it proved impossible.

‘The vehicle ended up head-butting Callow’s Yard, not even to the point that it would complete that sweep past,’ said Richard Pearson, director of highways.

‘The other way was to head up into Malew Street [towards the square]. We tried that and to back up again it was just too tight. We wanted to see if there was enough room. It would be dangerous if done on a regular basis.’

As a result, the van had to back down Bank Street to get out of the area.

A larger van would mean fewer deliveries to restock the store and less disruption for other road users and residents.

‘We knew it was relatively tight,’ said Mr Pearson, ‘which is why I asked for a trial in the first place.’

Now that a test with an 18-tonne has failed, the other option is a 7.5- tonne van that will have to make several trips every day to the store, depending on how busy it is.

Using a smaller van means other concerns are allayed, such as the impact of a heavy vehicle on the paving at the top of Bank Street, and concern about blocking the entrance to people’s houses while deliveries were being made.

‘It was not a successful trial,’ said Mr Pearson. ‘But that was the whole purpose. If we knew it was not going to work we would not have had a trial.’

The exercise also provided quite a diversion in the town, commissioner Colin Leather said.

‘One of the men said they had never seen this many people in Castletown – there was a large contingent from the Department of Infrastructure, all the commissioners, and people just stood there watching,’ he said:

‘It created a little bit of interest – you could say that.’

MOTHER-of-two Karen Hannah has branched out into business on her own running a new men’s grooming centre on the edge of the island’s financial sector.

MenZone is based at premises in Prospect Hill, Douglas, almost opposite Athol Street.

Karen is fully qualified as a beautician with additional qualifications in Swedish massage, Indian Head massage, tanning and acrylic nails procedures.

She said that going into business on her own was ‘really exciting and a little bit scary. But it’s a bit different and I hope it takes off.’

Speaking from the reception area complete with comfy red Chesterfield sofa, Karen said she had been fully backed by the IoM government and has attended the island’s small business training programme provided by the Department of Economic Development.

She is going all out to make the venture a success. She said: ‘I’m a very determined lady. I believe I have identified a market. The island has lots to offer women in terms of beauty treatments but as far as I understand nothing specifically for men.

‘I am already getting feedback from men who are saying it was ‘‘about time’’ a male only grooming centre was opened.’

Karen said that in today’s world men ‘are much more conscious about the way they look and it has become an expectation and common practice by men all over the world to attend grooming salons tailored specifically for men.’

Merseysider Karen left school with no qualifications and came over to the island when she was 16 to work at her auntie’s holiday hotel in Douglas. Later her own parents Marie and Tommy Patterson came over to run another hotel called The Pandora.

Karen says she is a ‘people’s person’ and all her jobs over the years have involved working with other people.

She has enjoyed a number of jobs over the years. Karen spent several years working for the Department of Education involved in helping to run the Sunshine Club for youngsters.

And she was a duty manager at Glenside residential home.

But Karen harboured a dream that she would go into business on her own.

Her qualifications have been accepted by the Guild of Beauty Therapists for teaching beauty techniques in the island.

And she will be training her daughter Alix, 20, and future daughter-in- law Carrie in beauty with the intention of them both playing a big part in the running of the centre.

Carrie and Karen’s accountant son Steven, 26, are due to tie the knot in May.

Karen said family and friends had very supportive of the project.

Her new business is defiantly geared towards men with not a sign of anything ‘pink,fluffy or sparkling’ which she said would put men off.

Karen, who has also lectured part time in computer skills, has her own website. www.menzone.im

619799

TWO boys have launched a petition against the closure of the Department of Education and Children’s family and mobile libraries.

In just two days Michael Synnott, aged 11, and his classmate Robert Moore, collected about 50 signatures.

And they hope to get lots more from fellow pupils at Ballacottier School, in Farmhill, Douglas, if they get permission from head teacher Carol Walsh to take the petition in.

The petition, which they are going to present to Douglas West MHK John Shimmin, states that they ‘completely oppose’ the proposed closure of the libraries.

Michael and his mum Carol, of Derbyshire Road, Douglas, both joined the Family Library, off Westmoreland Road, in Douglas, about 18 months ago.

They take out books and DVDs and Michael has taken part in craft activities and its Summer Reading Challenge, which sees children reading six books over the summer holidays.

Michael, who enjoys sci-fi and science books, said: ‘Half of my class really love reading and the rest quite like reading. I’m sure they won’t let the library close.’

He said: ‘I think it’s very important for children to read. It doesn’t just improve your reading skills but it also improves your vocabulary, and it can make you much more confident. I love getting lost in a book, it’s fantastic.’

Both Michael and Carol agree that what makes the Family Library such a valuable asset is its staff.

‘It’s not just the books, it’s the staff that work there,’ Michael said.

They know the names of members as well as their reading preferences and make suggestions for books to try.

Carol said: ‘It’s a really lovely service and to lose it would have so many knock-on effects which aren’t measurable. They are not going to get the personal service anywhere else.’

She said it was ideally placed, with parking and a playground next door, and the perfect place to go on a rainy day.

Michael has come up with a number of suggestions which he believes would make the facilities more financially viable.

They include raising membership for young people from £2 per year to up to £10, and restricting its opening hours.

Editor’s note: Due to the high number of inappropriate - and irrelevant - posts made on this story we have decided to close the comments thread. We apologise to our readers who wished to engage in genuine debate.

Tuesday, February 28

Aries (March 21 - April 20)

You are at your best this week when trying out new things. Anything that stretches your talents brings inspiration. Even the smallest effort from you tends to yield surprising results. Some of this success may be because you are at your most persuasive as this week begins. Team efforts and forward planning with others make for a fun time at the weekend. Matchmaking friends can be annoying.

Taurus (April 21 - May 21)

Making the right decisions this week means a great deal of satisfaction in a job well done. Avoid being seen as pompous, however, by a partner. Looking to impress someone? Do it with a show of a caring attitude for best results. Although you take a certain situation very seriously, a lighter approach puts others at their ease. Make friends, not a point! Can you be gracious?

Gemini (May 22 - June 21)

Although it’s a busy week, you seem able to produce just that little bit more. The strength you need for a plan is inspired by someone you do not particularly like. Perhaps you feel that you have something to prove? Nothing wrong with that as long as you take a practical approach. Throwing money at a problem will not make it go away. Trust your instincts at the weekend.

Cancer (June 22 - July 23)

Free yourself from mundane tasks and try taking some time out. Even a few hours spent doing something that you enjoy make a difference. Someone met socially gives your career a boost. Ask the right questions of them and you will gain a lot from the answers. Show a real interest in your neighbours and colleagues as they can be much more interesting that you imagine!

Leo (July 24 - August 23)

Following your instincts and your heart takes you in a new direction this week. If something seems too easy then it probably is. Make a special effort to make things last longer. A careless comment by a colleague dents your confidence, but unnecessarily. Being in a sensitive mood can lead you to overreact. Try relaxing more and having a bit of fun. Remember fun?

Virgo (August 24 - September 23)

Getting a bit more recognition is pleasing but long overdue. Perhaps you need to blow your own trumpet a little more? Keep your eyes and ears open when it comes to seemingly trivial conversations and take full advantage of something that you hear. Someone showing a sympathetic nature could be trying to find out what your next move is. Do you want them to know?

Libra (September 24 - October 23)

Convince yourself that every day offers a new start, as being optimistic this week keeps you out of the doldrums. Take the opportunity to make some changes to your appearance to give a brighter feel. A pointed remark from a colleague shows that you have them worried. Is that the impression that you want to give? Being too easy-natured does you no favours this week.

Scorpio (October 24 - November 22) Like the opening line of a good book, you need to grab someone’s attention. Choose the time and place to do this as carefully as your words. Be ambitious in whatever you do. Why make the effort for a small gain when you can make it for a big one? Edge your way into someone’s eye-line, stay there for a while and then make a decisive move.

Sagittarius (November 23 - December 21)

An intimate discussion with an old friend or flame gives you hope for the future. Dare you think that things will go better this time? You are not who you used to be and so things cannot be the same. That is not so bad, if you are honest about it. Someone who preaches doom and gloom should be avoided or they will bring your mood down.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 20)

Being spontaneous makes for a much more interesting time socially. An invitation that you usually decline is accepted and your eyes are opened to a new opportunity. Having dismissed someone as non-romantic material, it is now time to think again! By being more exciting yourself, you are able to make others more exciting, so bring out the best in your friends.

Aquarius (January 21 - February 19)

Finances are highlighted. These can somehow be tied up with your love life but try to separate them if possible. An investment shows promise but be ready to make changes as necessary. By deciding to stay with a current plan, you will encourage long-term success rather than quick gains. Take nothing and no one for granted or you could be very surprised!

Pisces (February 20 - March 20)

A lucky week but be sensible when it comes to finances as there are no quick fixes in this area. Save cash by just not buying anything that is not absolutely essential. Indeed, being frugal can turn into an enjoyable hobby when you realise how well it works! Energetic solutions to romantic problems seem to show the best results. Do actions really speak louder than words?

DHSOB booked their place in the quarter-finals of the Cu-Plas FA Cup and a potentially mouth-watering clash with St Mary’s after emphatically overcoming Ramsey at Ballacloan on Saturday afternoon.

The Blackberry Lane outfit had to do it the hard way though, coming from behind after Jamie Moffatt had put the northerners ahead before a strong second-half showing ensured Old Boys’ safe passage.

The visitors began the game on the front foot and should have taken the lead as early as the third minute when Callum Stewart rose highest to meet Robbie Ward’s corner but he sent his header over the bar. Less than a minute later Stewart was involved again when he got on the end of John Quirk’s low, teasing cross but the striker scuffed his effort just wide.

Ramsey had their first sight of goal soon after when Matthew Montgomery releases Jamie Moffatt through on goal but Mark Burman was on hand to avert the danger with a superb, last-ditch tackle when a goal looked likely.

Quirk and Stewart soon combined to good effect again inside the area but the former’s half-volley was well blocked as the hosts continued to hold firm under mounting pressure.

Stewart flashed another header over from Sean Gavin’s cross at one end while at the other former Laxey striker Michael Fernandes shot wide from the edge of the area.

Old Boys skipper Craig Stewart then tried his luck when he latched on to Ward’s neat ball over the top but, under pressure from Lewis Qualtrough, the striker lifted the ball just over the bar.

Callum Stewart saw two more efforts go narrowly off target as the visitors pressed for the lead but Ramsey delivered a sucker punch on the half-hour mark when they broke the deadlock.

Chris Duggan delivered a tantalizing cross from the right wing that was cleared behind just when Moffatt looked certain to score, but Old Boys’ reprieve was short-lived as Moffatt met Kris Halsall’s corner with a bullet header which flew past stand-in goalkeeper John Ward for 1-0.

Colin Purvis’s men poured forward in the search of an immediate response and very nearly found one when Callum Stewart worked his way into the area before delivering a cross which was only half cleared to Gavin.

The winger took a touch before firing a venomous half-volley towards goal but Andy Perry was equal to the task and superbly parried the ball to safety.

Just when it looked like Ramsey would go in at the break a goal to the good, Old Boys struck to restore parity. Callum Stewart brought another good save from Perry but the resulting corner from Ward was powered home at the back post by the towering Liam Buckley, despite Perry getting a strong hand to it.

Ramsey’s resistance was then thoroughly broken in a nine-minute spell in the second half. Old Boys took the lead for the first time in the game 11 minutes after the restart, Craig Stewart teeing up Gavin on the edge of the area who drilled an excellent shot with the outside of his right foot which swerved into the bottom left corner, with Perry well beaten.

Less than two minutes later they doubled their advantage when another Ward corner was only half-cleared to Quirk who fired a fierce volley which took a wicked deflection off Martin King, completely wrong-footing Perry before nestling in the back of the net.

Then, just after the hour mark, substitute Jonathan Leece’s attempted backpass was intercepted by the lively Craig Stewart who rounded Perry before slotting into an empty net for 4-1.

Callum Stewart almost got the goal his efforts deserved 10 minutes later when he surged forward brilliantly from the halfway line before cutting inside. Once inside the area he lifted the ball past the advancing Perry but Robbie Collister was on hand to hack the ball off the line. However, there was nothing the Ramsey defence could do to prevent the visitors adding a fifth three minutes later when the two Stewart brothers combined well down the left, resulting in Callum squaring the ball to sub Dave Quirk who tapped in with virtually his first touch.

His brother Gary then almost got in on the act himself when the two combined inside the area but the former’s chip landed on the roof of the net. However, the visitors netted twice in the dying seconds to add some gloss to the scoreline. First, Gary Quirk’s cross was met by fellow sub Dean France whose shot was blocked, but he was quick to cross the rebound to Craig Stewart who slammed the ball into the roof of the net.

Then, with almost the last kick of the game, Gary Quirk fired in a free-kick which took a huge deflection to send Perry the wrong way and complete a the scoring for Old Boys.

Ramsey: Andy Perry (c), Matthew Curphey (Jonathan Leece 62m), Robbie Collister, Lewis Qualtrough, Jamie Arneil, Paul Rowley, Chris Duggan, Matthew Montgomery, Jamie Moffatt, Michael Fernandes, Kris Halsall. Subs not used: Alex Yates and Jamie Kitchen

DHSOB: John Ward, Martin King, Mark Burman, Liam Buckley, Michael Hooper, Iain Ramsay, Robbie Ward (Dean France 75m), Sean Gavin (David Quirk 75m), John Quirk (Gary Quirk 67m) ), Callum Stewart, Craig Stewart (c)

Referee: Ian Fisher

Assistants: Kevin Giles and Simon Hull

Man of the Match: Craig Stewart (DHSOB) - good all-round performance from the Old Boys’ skipper

Match rating: HHHII

ST John’s marked the official switch on of their new floodlights in style with a comfortable 4-0 win over relegation-threatened Ayre in the Canada Life Premier League’s first Friday evening match at Mullen-e-Cloie.

Goals from Sam Ingham, man of the match Mike Peace, Andy Glover and player-manager Nick Hurt ensured the westerners got the result they needed to match the occasion and their impressive revamped surroundings.

The result leaves the Johnners in contention for a top-six finish on their first season back in the top-flight after promotion in May and will provide a solid base to build upon ahead of their proposed FA Vase assault next campaign .

Ayre, on the other hand, now look increasingly likely to be plying their footballing trade in the second tier next term after a 19th defeat of the league season.

The division’s bottom side are now eight points from safety with just four games left to play.

James Teare’s Andreas outfit did show some fight in the early throes of this encounter as they did well to frustrate the home side’s usually prolific attack.

Hurt’s hosts eventually turned their pressure into chances and marksman Stephen Glover fired over after he was sent clear by a great diagonal through ball from the Saints’ player-manager.

St John’s winger Mike Peace was a driving force for his side in the fixture’s opening 45 and he carved open a chance for skipper Andy Glover after a determined run down the left flank, but the ball got caught up in the former Pulrose and Foxdale man’s feet as he looked to pull the trigger.

Andy Glover then went close with a long-range shot, but Ayre’s teenage goalkeeping prospect Andy Ball was up to the task hanging on well to his 25-yard effort.

The Saints eventually broke down the Tangerines’ spirited defence midway through the first half when Ingham bundled in from close range, despite calls for handball from the United players and supporters.

Ingham’s goal settled the Saints big occasion nerves and Andy Glover fizzed a shot just over before Hurt headed wide as a big scoreline looked on the cards. A second St John’s goal followed just before the half-hour mark when Andy Glover teed up Peace to rifle in.

Ball denied the westerners a third minutes later when he produced a smart save to rebuff Chris Blackburn.

The visitors’ enjoyed their best spell of the half in the lead up to the break and Johnny Kelly’s barnstorming run from midfield nearly bore the fruit of the goal but he was denied by the Saints’ keeper Damyan Petrov before the Bulgarian stopper and full-back Eric Kelly combined to block Steven Moore’s follow up.

After an entertaining first half, a sedate second period unfolded. The home side had the better of the half’s chances in its opening quarter of an hour, Hurt twice going close through a rasping half-volley and a free-kick.

Ayre then enjoyed a good spell of possession without really testing Petrov. St John’s made the visitors pay netting a third goal with 18 minutes left on the clock. Andy Glover’s raking long ball played in brother Stephen. He cut the ball back to lively substitute Nicky Sloan. The island under-18 midfielder’s mishit fell fortuitously to Andy Glover who finished well.

With 10 minutes to go Ayre found themselves down to 10 men when Teare was harshly sent off for handball. The United player-manager dived full length to block Stephen Glover’s shot on the line, the ball appearing to strike his shoulder on its way wide. Referee Mark Thomas deemed it to be handball, sending the Ayre man off and pointing to the spot for a Johnners’ penalty.

Hurt’s cheeky chipped spot-kick hit the bar before Ingham’s follow up effort was ruled out, however, a fourth St John’s goal was to follow in the 83rd minute when Stephen Glover tapped in after Ball had half-saved the former island striker’s initial effort.

A fifth nearly followed at the death, but Hurt’s cross come shot rattled the bar as his side completed a comfortable league double over the Andreas outfit.

St John’s: Damyan Petrov, Eric Kelly, Sam Ingham, Nick Leung, Wes Kitching, Chris Blackburn (Nicky Sloan 63m), John Wrigley (Krasmir Stoev 72m), Nick Hurt, Michael Peace, Andy Glover (c), Stephen Glover. Sub not used: Brett Kitching.

Ayre: Andy Ball, Mark Cain, Phil Quayle (c), Stephen Barbour, Jamie Skillan, Paul Kennish (Adam Curphey 9m), Gordon Heward (James Moore 63m), Jonny Kelly, Sam Patmore, Steven Moore (Lee Camilerri 63m), James Teare.

Referee: Mark Thomas. Assistants: David Murphy and Tommy Crowe

Booked: Cain (Ayre). Sent off: Teare (Ayre)

Man of the Match: Peace (St John’s) - capped a fine all-round display with a well-taken goal

Match rating: HHIII

Take an enthralling story about an ex-cop who falls victim to a robbery in London, widen the scope to include a dangerous trail of ‘lost money’ in Baghdad and you have one of the best British crime novels currently on the market.

The Wreckage, a superb, fast-paced ‘what-if’ conspiracy thriller, comes from the pen of the talented Michael Robotham whose stories feature reckless, fast-talking Vincent Ruiz, a 60-something former policeman who doesn’t know when to stop living life on the edge.

Ruiz has made several outings now, the most famous being his dangerous escapades in the scorching best-seller Bleed for Me. Thousands of readers have fallen under the spell of our hero’s world-weary cynicism which has made his missions impossible unmissable.

Robotham’s latest offering moves into ambitious and truly international territory with a complex and compelling plot that takes in the world of banking, investigative journalism, foreign politics, terrorism and intelligence.

Set in the turbulent aftermath of the global financial crisis, the intrepid Ruiz finds himself up against powerful agents who will stop at nothing to bury secrets.

It all starts in London where Ruiz rescues a young woman from a violent boyfriend but wakes the next morning to find that he’s been set up and robbed.

As he tracks down the thieves, he discovers the boyfriend’s tortured body and learns that powerful men are looking for the girl. But what did Holly Knight steal that is so important to them?

Meanwhile in Baghdad, the bank robbery capital of the world, billions of dollars in reconstruction funds have gone missing and Pulitzer prize-winning journalist Luca Terracini is living outside the wire and trying to ‘follow the money.’

The perilous trail will lead him to London where he teams up with Ruiz and together they investigate the disappearance of an international banker and a mysterious ‘black hole’ in the bank’s accounts.

It seems powerful nations are prepared to manipulate the truth whatever the human cost...

Robotham’s writing gets better and better – his spare prose and amazingly authentic dialogue are coupled with vivid characterisation and a politically astute and convincingly real plot that positively bristles with menace.

A top-class thriller...

(Sphere, paperback, £6.99)

MANX Nationalist Party Mec Vannin has condemned Education and Children Minister Peter Karran MHK for his handling of the decision to close pre-school education facilities.

The party’s chairman Mark Kermode sent a letter to the minister on Thursday saying the party’s committee was ‘deeply concerned’ by his actions and statements.

A Department of Education and Children (DEC) spokesman said the letter ‘contains a number of inaccuracies’.

In the letter, Mr Kermode said Mr Karran had ‘repeatedly alleged that misinformation has been disseminated’ in relation to the closure of the department’s nursery facilities.

The letter states school staff were informed nursery provision was to end from September on Thursday, February 16, with nursery unit staff being told those jobs would be redundant as of that time and advised to be put on a transfer list. Mr Kermode wrote: ‘As we understand this list to be already over-subscribed, their prospects are poor. The staff of the four nurseries run by franchise do not have that option. No mention whatsoever was made to these staff of any plans to have private enterprise step in to fill the void created.’

He said the original media statement, released by the department the following day, contained ‘simply a bland paragraph included inferring (sic) a plan existed, i.e. “We intend to transfer the provision for the pre-school year to private and voluntary providers of group care and education”.

The letter continued: ‘Perhaps it would have been prudent to consult private pre-school groups of these “plans” before announcing it to the world.

‘In the best tradition of actions speak louder than words, we feel that you have falsely besmirched the integrity of others in an attempt to hide your own failings in this matter.

‘You can, of course, rebut this by providing the details of which organisations are going to replace which facilities and at what cost to parents.’

A DEC spokesman said: ‘The minister is in the process of replying to Mr Kermode’s letter of 5.53pm on Thursday, February 23, which contains a number of inaccuracies.’

A PLAN for 100 new homes at Kirk Michael has been refused by Council of Ministers (CoMin).

Heritage Homes’ plan (11/01250/B) for the estate was turned down at appeal. CoMin agreed with the independent planning inspector’s recommendation that the proposal be refused.

In his report Alan Langton said: ‘On overall balance I recommend against this scheme, both on its own merits and because the road access should be determined only following a firm decision one way or the other regarding a bypass.’

A land swap deal was struck over this development and was agreed to by Tynwald – prior to CoMin’s decision on the plan, which was made on Thursday.

Michael MHK Alf Cannan was unhappy at the way the deal, signed last August, was made and last week was successful in having a Tynwald select committee set up to investigate the matter.

Under the land swap deal, the Department of Education and Children (DEC) was to convey 0.63 acres of land to the north and east (rear) of the school site from the landowner.

The developer was to create a new sports pitch, hard play area and boundary works, including ball-stop fencing, boundary fencing, gates, walls, ramps paths and landscaping at no cost to the DEC.

INFRASTRUCTURE Minister David Cretney MHK is encouraging more people to use Government Online Services to pay their vehicle duty.

It follows the successful introduction of the service in November.

Mr Cretney said: ‘There has been a good initial response to the new online payment service for vehicle duty. About eight per cent of licences renewed in December were renewed online.

‘I would encourage as many people as possible to try the new facility.’

He said it was economical for the government, and convenient for motorists to pay via www.gov.im/onlineservices/

Vehicle licences may still be renewed by post or at a post offices.

For further information contact the licensing office on 686837 or email enquiries@highways.gov.im

Sammy MacDonald and Chris Langford take over from Keith Lunt and Michael Baker

THE island’s women’s football team has a new management team in the shape of Ramsey’s experienced international Sammy MacDonald and FA development centre coach Chris Langford.

The duo take over from long-time manager Keith Lunt and coach Michael Baker who have stood down from their respective positions despite helping the island to claim Island Games silver and Appleby Triangular tournament success in recent years.

An IoMFA statement issued this afternoon said: ‘The Football Association, through its Island Representative Committee, are please to announce the appointment of Sam MacDonald as island women’s manager and Chris Langford as island women’s coach. Sam has been an island player since the formation of a women’s representative team and has followed this up by securing a level two coaching qualification. Chris, who has recently moved to the Island from the Birmingham area, is also a level two qualified coach and presently coaches at the IoMFA development centre.

‘These appointments have been made following the decision taken by Keith Lunt and Michael Baker to stand down from their positions as manager and coach respectively. The Association would like to take the opportunity to pay tribute to Keith and Michael for all the work they have done in securing success for the island team and for their contribution in taking the women’s representative football to healthy position it is now in.’

MacDonald and Langford face their first competitive challenge in May when they take the island squad to the Isle of Wight to participate in the Appleby Triangular tournament between the Manx, the hosts and Jersey.

PARAGON Valkyrs A maintained their lead at the top of the Wi-Manx Men’s Premier Division with a 5-1 victory over Manx Telecom Vikings A on Saturday.

Chris Thomas led the way for the westerners with two goals. Ollie Webster, Stephen Moore and Steven Lowe all added single strikes, while Jonny Killey was the Vikings scorer.

IOMA Group Bacchas A ensured they remain in contention for the title with a 16-1 thrashing of CM Skye Ramsey A. Karl Moore grabbed the lion’s share of the goals, netting on eight occasions. Tom Wilson weighed in with four goals, there was a hat-trick for captain Jamie Brown and a single goal for Alex Atkinson. Raj Nandah claimed a consolation goal for Ramsey.

IOMA Group Bacchas B claimed a 3-2 victory over Celton Manx Castletown A. Two from Alex Bell and a single goal form Josh Riordan proved enough for the Tromode side. Danny Kniveton and Steve Ronan found the net for Castletown.

Wi-Manx Men’s Division One

Manx Telecom Vikings B ensured they remain in pole position in the title race with a 2-0 victory over IOMA Group Bacchas Colts. Ken Carney and Richie Gelder found the net for Vikings.

Paragon Valkyrs A ensured they remain in the title race with a 3-1 victory over Celton Manx Castletown B. A brace from Chris Killey and a goal from Jonathan Hull saw the westerners claim both points. No details of the Castletown scorer were received.

The points were shared between Fearless Saracens A and HQ Harlequins A. Steve Cottier opened the scoring for Saracens before Peter Nuttall equalised for Harlequins. Despite the best efforts of both sides, neither could break the deadlock.

Wi-Manx Men’s Division Two

IOMA Group Bacchas C claimed an impressive 7-2 victory over Manx Telecom Vikings C. John Hunter scored a hat-trick for Bacchas, Chris Hill netting twice with single strikes for Dave Partington and Juan Quine. Andy Ashbridge and Nigel Birken scored for Vikings.

Wi-Manx Under-16 Mixed League

Celton Manx Castletown made it two wins from two with a 9-2 victory over HQ Harlequins.

George Powell was the top scorer with five goals, Marcus Clague hit three and Hannah Dixon grabbed a single strike. David Smith and Elliot Henson found the net for Harlequins.

Wi-Manx Women’s Cup

Manx Telecom Vikings A ensured they remain in contention for a league and cup double as they progressed to the next round of the competition at the expense of CM Skye Ramsey A.

Katie Errock netted a hat-trick with Kirsty Bowley, Hayley Crowe and Sarah Blackman all getting single strikes. Julie Chesterton was the only Ramsey player to find the net.

Paragon Valkyrs A claimed their spot in the next round with a 4-0 victory over IOMA Group Bacchas B. Goals from Leanne Miller, Leanne Prescott and two from Maxine Smalley proved enough for the westerners.

Celton Manx Castletown A put 12 past Paragon Valkyrs B as they progressed in the competition. Natalie Wiseman and Lois Watterson scored three apiece and there were braces for Kerry Kelly and Siobhan Clucas plus single goals for Hannah Leece and Breshey Harkin.

Wi-Manx Women’s Plate

Defending champions Celton Manx Castletown C caused an upset with victory over Celton Manx Castletown B. Neither side was able to break the deadlock in normal time, resulting in a penalty flick shootout - from which Laura Dixon’s C team emerged victorious.

Fearless Saracens A claimed a 2-1 victory over Manx Telecom Vikings C. Lynsey Smith and Steph Cottier found the net for Saracens with Dee Gimbert replying for Vikings.

ISLE of Man Newspapers’ titles will be printed on a modern, all-colour press in the UK from next week.

It means that this week’s Manx Independent will be the last newspaper to be printed on the press in Peel Road, Douglas.

The current press is 19 years old. The newspapers have to be printed in sections and then put together by hand.

Helen Byrne, the managing director of Isle of Man Newspapers, said: ‘Our press is simply not up to the job of producing newspapers to the standard expected by many of our readers and advertisers.’

The company concluded it was too expensive to buy a new press for use just three times a week.

Editor Richard Butt said: ‘Our press team has done a great job and I want to pay tribute to them all. It’s with a heavy heart that the company has made the decision.

‘However, we have to respond to market demand for improved products, which can only give the whole company a more secure future.’

The company will still employ 53 people in the Isle of Man – plus Courier deliverers – after the closure of the press. Seven full-time posts are being made redundant.

All the news coverage – stories, headlines, photographs etc – will continue to be produced by staff in the Isle of Man. Once the pages are designed and produced by journalists in the island, they will be sent electronically directly to the press in Dinnington, Sheffield.

After they have been printed, the newspapers will be transported to the island by ferry, along with the UK national newspapers. If the boat doesn’t sail, the papers will be flown in.

From next week the Examiner will be on sale first thing on Monday morning, the Manx Independent on Thursday morning.

A QUESTION mark is hanging over the future operation of the island business community’s vital air link to London City.

It’s been announced that Aer Arann will operate all of its services between Ireland and the UK, France and the Isle of Man under the Aer Lingus Regional brand following an expansion of an existing franchise agreement between the two Irish airlines.

But the only route that will remain under the Aer Arann banner is the Ronaldsway to London City link.

Infrastructure Minister David Crentey MHK confirmed that Aer Arann could only give a commitment to the route for a period of time - and talks had been going on for several weeks now to see if an alternative operator could be found.

He said: ‘It is a very important route for the island’s business community but it is not a profitable route for Aer Arann. I am hopeful that an alternative operator can be found.’

Mr Cretney said Aer Arann had to pay high airport charges at London City and it was hoped an alternative carrier would have more favourable rates. Asked if the route could be axed altogether, he replied: ‘I’m not contemplating that at the moment. I remain upbeat that we will find an alternative operator.’

Aer Arann employs 20 staff based at Ronaldsway.

Aer Arann’s other service from Ronaldsway – to Dublin – will operate under the Aer Lingus Regional banner from March 25. Mr Cretney said this would give passengers from the island better and easier connections to the States with Transatlantic Aer Lingus flights to New York, Boston, Chicago and Orlando and also excellent access to major European destinations such as Amsterdam, Paris, Brussels and Rome.

Those with Aer Arann bookings to Dublin after March 25 will be contacted by the airline with updated booking information. While flight numbers will change, there will be no change to existing flight times.

Passengers will benefit from US Customs and Immigrations pre-clearance facilities at Dublin Airport that will allow them to arrive in the US as domestic passengers, saving valuable time.

Aer Arann interim chief executive officer Sean Brogan, said: ‘We are absolutely delighted to strengthen our partnership with Aer Lingus and this move represents a major strategic development for Aer Arann. Operating under one renowned brand will enable us to streamline our services, resulting in an overall improved experience for our customers.’

Aer Lingus chief commercial officer Stephen Kavanagh said: ‘This expansion of Aer Lingus Regional’s service offers more choice and value to the public. I welcome Aer Arann’s confidence in the Regional franchise model and wish them continued success.’

THE High Court has issued an injunction against businessman Roy Tilleard, preventing him using the work of an architect who has brought a case against him.

George Hugh Logan successfully argued that an order should be made preventing Mr Tilleard, Callow’s Yard Ltd and Justin Gaisford Martin from dealing in certain copyrighted works, plans, drawings, and bespoke software he produced while engaged as an architect on the Callow’s Yard Development.

Mr Logan (trading as Hugh Logan Architects) is bringing a separate case against Mr Tilleard, Bent Ham Ltd and Callow’s Yard Ltd, in which he claims Mr Tilleard should be made personally liable for money he says he is owed by a company of which Mr Tilleard was one of the directors.

Mr Logan worked with the company – formerly Callow’s Yard Developments and afterwards Bent Ham Ltd (now in creditors’ voluntary liquidation) – on the Castletown development. Mr Logan’s case centres on a claim for professional fees: of a total of £153,000 he claims that he was paid around £144,525 but the rest is owing. There is also a claim for general damages for personal injuries (this relates to stress which Mr Logan says he suffered) and a claim for other consequential losses caused to his practice by the alleged breach of contract.

Mr Logan is pursuing Mr Tilleard for the claim of outstanding funds and damages, alleging that Bent Ham Ltd was the ‘alter ego’ of Mr Tilleard, who was the ‘controlling mind’ of the company which, Mr Logan claims, was operated ‘as a device with the intention and purpose of avoiding creditors’.

Mr Tilleard’s defence asserts that the companies operated properly in accordance with the law, that the structure was set up at the behest of the funding banks and that genuine creditors have all been paid, according to Deemster Corlett. It claims there ‘is no impropriety whatsoever and there is no basis for Mr Tilleard to be made personally liable’.

Two interim judgments were delivered by Deemster Corlett last week. The first relates to the disclosure of documents in the underlying case but the second covers Mr Logan’s application for an interlocutory injunction.

In the latter, the deemster referred to the agreement between Mr Logan and Callow’s Yard Developments Ltd in which copyright in Mr Logan’s work remained with him but the company was granted a licence to use it. This licence could be suspended if the company was in default of payment of any fees. Mr Logan claimed he had suspended the licence on this basis in September 2008.

Deemster Corlett pointed out payment of fees was a matter for the impending trial but that there was certainly a serious question to be tried on that issue.

Deemster Corlett found the three respondents – Callow’s Yard Ltd, Mr Tilleard and Mr Gaisford – were not parties to the contract in any case and so could not have a licence to use Mr Logan’s work.

And he said there was unrebutted evidence that Callow’s Yard Ltd had made planning applications in the recent past using Mr Logan’s plans, as had a company called Callow’s Yard Enterprises Ltd and BetaBet Ltd. BetaBet is unrelated to any of Mr Tilleard’s companies.

The deemster said that no evidence at all had been filed by the respondents, which he described as ‘somewhat surprising’. He went on to explain that if damages could be paid for the unlicensed use of Mr Logan’s work, and the defendant was in a financial position to pay them, then an injunction would not be granted.

Mr Logan argued it would be difficult to calculate any possible damages as the value of the copyrighted materials is not easy to assess.

The key point for Deemster Corlett, he said, was that he had ‘no evidence whatsoever’ from the defendants on their financial position.

‘There is some suggestion that Callow’s Yard Limited in fact may not be in a particularly strong financial position from what I know of the position in the other case,’ he said. ‘Mr Tilleard is said to be a very wealthy man. I do not know whether that is the case at all. If that is in fact the case it would have been easy for him to file evidence and he did not do so. I know nothing at all about Justin Gaisford Martin.’

The deemster concluded the injunction succeeded on the issue of the inadequacy of damages because there was no evidence otherwise from the defendants.

But he also criticised Mr Logan for failing to provide a written statement of evidence of his own ability to pay damages in the event they were awarded against him. He was able, however, to hear evidence from Mr Logan which satisfied him of the architect’s ability to pay if necessary, and on that basis he was prepared to grant the injunction with an accompanying undertaking as to damages from Mr Logan.

Calm conditions and slick greens greeted the entrants at Port St Mary Golf Club for the Archer/Moore BBFB at the weekend.

Leading the way with the last card in was the pairing of Para Quirk and Keith Wilkins with a score of 43 points, both players contributing to the card.

Runners-up, losing out on the back nine, were the club’s own tweedle dee and tweedle dumb Crispy Barnes and Mark Walton.

They got off to a great start with Barnes chipping in on the 1st hole for an eagle and four points.

Just missing out was their playing partners Chad Wilby and Dougie Skinner with 42 points, the latter sharing the two sweep yet again.

The captain’s golf is steadily improving as he advanced to next to last in the table.

There were a few sore heads after a great meal in the Pavilion for the committee dinner then the Albert - I don’t advise doing a five-mile walk home at 1.30am afterwards!

For those brave enough to play on Mother’s Day this weekend there is the Walters Cup.

MORE than 130 players competed in a stableford at Peel Golf Club on Saturday. The weather was excellent and the course was in great condition with the greens putting well and the ball starting to run a bit.

Towards midday it was almost balmy with the rare sight of people playing in short sleeves and, as you would expect, the scoring was hot.

Nik Bull (21) took sixth place with 39 points having only carded two points over the last three holes. Steve Caley (9) also had 39 and took fifth on countback while Matt Williamson (10) continued his excellent form with 40 for fourth and his partners will be glad to see his handicap coming down.

Steve Lester (6) recorded an excellent 41 points to finish third. Daryn Shimmin (17) will be delighted with his 41 where a modest 17 on the way out was followed by a gross 37 and 24 on the back nine.

The winner with a 42-point card was Chris Colquitt (9) who seems to be in the prizes every week at the moment.

A 3, 2, 4, 4 start was the foundation for his round and, despite a couple of wobbles, a 72 gross off nine is never a bad thing.

This Friday is the Paddy’s Day Am-Am which, as usual, has sold out.

The women of Peel Golf Club recently enjoyed a captain versus vice-captain’s team event whereby the two teams battled it out in a matchplay format against each other.

The captain’s team emerged victorious winning nine games to six.

Later that evening the pre-season dinner was held and included the presentation of many prizes.

The 2011 EGWA medal for the best four rounds was awarded to Valerie Creane with a score of 286.

Jessie Perry was the winner of the February monthly medal silver division with a score of 93 -17=76 (on countback), with Marilyn Brown winning the bronze division with 98-22=76 and Carol Wright in 2nd with 109 -32=77. Best gross on the day was Mair Gardner with 91.

In March the monthly medal silver division was won by Maureen Knight with 92-18=74. The runner-up with 96 -17=79 was Jessie Perry and Helen Gyselynck was in third place with 98-16=82.

In the bronze division first place went to Sally Morgan-Moodie with 99-25=74, Bridget Pugh was runner-up with 105-25=80 and Vera Walsh came third with 108-26=82. Maureen Knight had the best gross score on the day with 92.

The final presentation of the evening was for the most improved golfer which was awarded to Kayleigh Dawson who, at just 12-years-old, is an up-and-coming star of the future having come down 10 shots from 29.5 to 19.5.

ISLAND charities have expressed their disappointment at cuts in their grants from government.

The Samaritans and Cruse Bereavement Care are among a number of charities affected. Both have pledged to maintain the same level of service.

As we have already reported, the Department of Social Care has cut £84,000 from the Drug Advice Service and Helpline (DASH) for adult services and the £25,000 grant for its children and young people’s service at the end of August.

Seven other charities have seen their grants reduced, too.

Cruse sees its grant cut by £2,333 to £17,667 and the Samaritans have a grant cut of £1,166 to £8,834.

Circa’s grant has been cut by just under £3,000 to £22,084 and the Manx Housing Trust’s grant is reduced by just over £5,800 to £44,155. Relate’s grant is cut by more than £14,500 to £60,367 and Women’s Aid sees its grant cut by about £2,700 to £20,696. The Service Users’ Network has had its £10,743 grant suspended for the year because it has ‘substantial reserves’.

The Samaritans’ island director Sylvia Hall said: ‘It’s disappointing but not unexpected. To be honest we are relieved that we’ve not had the entire grant taken away.’

She said the cut in grant was ‘not massive’ compared with the charity’s £40,000 annual running cost.

‘The grant from government is about a quarter of what we need to keep the charity running. Any cut in our income is worrying. We are going to have to step up our fund-raising. These are difficult times and it’s difficult to fund-raise.

‘This won’t have an impact. Other charities have been hit harder. We don’t have any paid employees – we are all volunteers so it’s not going to affect us in that respect.’

Sylvia said that like other island communities, the Isle of Man’s suicide rate is quite high with young people aged 18 to 25 and those who retire here and have no family support when their partners die being particularly high risk groups.

She said that with government cuts, charities would need to work together to pool resources – sharing accommodation, personnel, recruitment and advertising.

Les Watson, chairman of Cruse Bereavement Care, said the cuts would amount to a 40 per cent reduction in government funding.

He said: ‘Department of Social Care grants have been the main funding source for Cruse Bereavement Care for some years, so it is disappointing that the cuts will mean we need to substantially increase funding from other sources to compensate, at a time when there is already severe competition for finance among all charitable organisations in the island.

‘When the full cut takes effect in 2013/2014 it will amount to a 40 per cent reduction in funds from government – a much greater reduction than we anticipated. Despite this we aim to maintain the current level of service and support for all bereaved persons here.’

Chris Corlett, chief executive of the Department of Social Care, confirmed there would be a £40,000 reduction in grant funding this coming financial year.

But he said his department still provided grants totalling £800,000 to 20 voluntary organisations offering care services to the vulnerable – and the average reduction was less than £5,000.

He insisted there was no conflict between the desire to work closer with the third sector while at the same time cutting grant funding. He stressed that the third sector continued to provide a vital role but that the taxpayer had to get value for money for services they fund.

THE Young Magicians of Mann will show the tricks of their trade during their annual magic show, which will take place next week.

‘It’s Magic!’ is being staged in conjunction with the youth events committee, part of the Department of Education and Children’s youth service and will take place at the Youth Arts Centre in Kensington Road, Douglas, on Sunday, March 25.

Those who were lucky enough to get tickets in previous years will know that the audience can expect a professional, fun-filled afternoon of magic, laughter and illusions suitable for all the family.

The three organisers of the show are the only island-based members of the Magic Circle – they are Paul Martin, Mike Clague and Lexi Watterson.

Paul said: ‘Magic has become very much in vogue recently, partly due the impact of great magic stars such as Derren Brown and Dynamo and TV programmes such as Penn and Teller – Fool Us! and The Magicians.

‘The current Children’s BBC series “Help – My Supply Teacher Is Magic!”, in which three of the Young Magicians of Mann feature, is one of the most viewed CBBC programmes at the moment.’

Lexi Watterson, who came third in the Magic Circle’s Young Magician of the Year contest in 2007, said: ‘The TV programmes are great, but seeing illusions being performed under your nose is so much better.’

Such is the popularity of conjuring at the moment, that the Young Magicians of Mann have had to start a new junior section and the club has more members than at any time during its 25-year existence.

They benefit from lectures by overseas professional magicians arranged by the Magicians of Mann, a separate club for adults, which have been supported by the Isle of Man Arts Council. In 2012, lectures are scheduled by Raphael Benatar from Spain and Diamond Jim Tyler from Kansas in the USA.

Taking part in the Young Magicians’ show will be Philip Morrison, Andrew Martin and Sarina Dove, from Douglas, Daniel Quayle, from Onchan, Chris Corlett, who lives in St John’s, and Thomas Clague, from Glen Vine, along with Juan Moore and Nathan Hill, from Castletown.

During the show Philip will break the magician’s code and teach everyone how to perform a miracle of their own – but those trying to emulate his magic can still expect to be amazed.

A slightly shorter version of ‘It’s Magic!’ will tour the island in the summer term, visiting Peel, Cronk-y-Berry, Rushen, Ree Gorree and Michael schools and the Laxey Institute.

The club will also be busy running a ‘Transfiguration Class’ at the Harry Potter Event at King William’s College, arranged by Junior Achievement, on March 31 and April 1.

On Friday, September 14, the Young Magicians of Mann will celebrate their silver anniversary with a special show, Magic!, at the Gaiety Theatre, in conjunction with the Youth Events Committee. Potential sponsors of this, the first magic variety show at the Gaiety Theatre for many years, can contact Lexi Watterson on 825253 or email {mailto:ymom@mac.com|ymom(at)mac.com}.

The It’s Magic! show starts at 2pm. Tickets are priced at £5 and are available from the Youth Office on 686057 during office hours or 878328 between 6pm and 9pm (leave a message).

Early booking is recommended, as the annual show usually sells out.