Thursday, August 7

• Age Concern - free computer training sessions, Douglas iMuseum, Kingswood Grove, 10am–12.30pm.

• 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, Douglas. 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. Arbory Commissioners’ hall with Cathy Clucas, 7.30pm. Call 838527. St John’s House with James O’Meara, 7.30pm. Call 843436.

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

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

Friday, August 8

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

• The Manx Aviation and Military Museum, Ronaldsway,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.

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

• Cloideryn Productions, end of the pier variety show and musicals pop ups. Proceeds to St Paul’s Church tower. In St Paul’s Church hall, Ramsey. 7.30pm. Tickets £5. Also Saturday.

Saturday, August 9

• 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.

• Michael Heritage Trust - A Guided Tour of the Manx Military Museum, Ronaldsway, Ballasalla commencing at 2pm. Limited numbers. Contact 878342 for availability.

• Milntown House Tours every Saturday and Wednesday at 2.30pm. Call 812321.

Sunday, August 10

• Falconry weekend at the Curraghs Wildlife Park with Phil Gibbons. Demonstrations at 1pm and 3pm.

• Car boot sale, Morton hall, Castletown, 2pm. Call 673320/481532.

• Manx Wildlife Trust. Dune clean at Cronk y Bing. 2pm-4pm. Meet at the car park.

• Indoor car boot sale, Morton Hall, Castletown, 2pm. Call 673320/481532.

• Commemoration of the centenary of the outbreak of The Great War. Creating a Cross of Crosses in Mooragh Park, Ramsey at 3pm.

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

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

Monday, August 11

• Isle of Man Students Society Open Day in conjunction with Manx Professional & Educational Services, from 10am. For more information call 668101, or drop in to 41-45 Duke Street, Douglas.

• 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, 2pm-4pm, Manx Legion Club, Douglas.

• Manx Wildlife Trust. Rock pooling at Niarbyl, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Meeting at the car park.

• Shorties, pirate adventure. Children’s soft play centre, Alexandra Road, Castletown, also Tuesday.

Tuesday, August 12

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

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

• Lunch Club, Salvation Army Citadel, Lord Street, Douglas, 11.30am. Call 627742.

Wednesday, August 13

• Manx Wildlife Trust. Lizard watching at the Ayres. 10am-noon. Meeting at the Ayres Visitor Centre.

• 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.

• Ramsey Probus lunch, Ramsey Golf Club, 12.30pm. Illustrated talk by Juan Cottier. Call Ian Wells 816404.

• 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

• Bingo Quiz, Archibald Knox Onchan.

Thursday, August 7

• Karaoke, Guys and Dolls, Douglas.

• Ramsey Folk Club, Mitre Hotel, Ramsey, 8pm-11pm.

• 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, August 8

• Little Miss Dynamite at the Union, Castletown.

• Ian Thompson at the Rosemount, Douglas.

• Grass Roots at Jaks, Douglas.

• Shoh Slaynt at The Tynwald Hill Inn, St John’s.

• 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.

• Kiaull as Gaelg at the Albert, Port St Mary, 9pm. LAST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH.

• Open Mic Night at Café Laare, Douglas, 7pm-9.30pm. LAST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH

Saturday, August 9

• Chris Winchester Band at Jaks, Douglas.

• Little Miss Dynamite at the Manx Arms, Onchan.

• Ian Thompson at the Pinewood, Pulrose.

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

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

• Karaoke at the Central Hotel, Ramsey.

Sunday, August 10

• One Wo/Man One Guitar at the Highwayman, Peel. Hosted by Dickie Kelly. 8pm.

• Ray Sloane Karaoke at Jaks, Douglas.

• Shoh Slaynt at Groudle Glen Railway Clifftop concert, noon-1pm.

• Isle of Man Organists’ Association Recital, Ewan Davidson at St George’s Church, Douglas, 3pm.

• Manx Concert Brass, Villa Marina Gardens, 3pm.

• Choral Evensong, St German’s Cathedral, Peel, 3.30pm.

• 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.

Tuesday, August 12

• IoM Wind Orchestra, Villa Marina Arcade, Douglas, 8pm.

• 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, August 13

• Karaoke at the British, Douglas.

• Irish Music session at O’Donnell’s, Douglas, 8.30pm.

• Bryony Harrison and Brigid Stowell. Exhibition of artworks at Sayle Gallery, Douglas. Until August 15.

• Exhibition: Ramsey and the Great War. How the outbreak of war in 1914 affected the lives of people in Ramsey and the north, runs 10am to 4pm daily, except Sundays, at the Ramsey Heritage Centre, Quayle’s Hall, Albert Street, Ramsey. Until August 16.

• Summer Exhibition. Erin Arts Centre, Port Erin. A variety of original paintings from our very own Erin Arts Group. Until August 29.

• Paul Parker Manx landscapes exhibition at Studio 42, Port St Mary. Until September 7.

• 2014 marks 100 years since the start of the First World War. Holy Trinity Church, Patrick will be hosting an exhibition of photographs, paintings and memorabilia to commemorate this occasion. Admission is free and all are welcome. The exhibition will be open daily from 10am-5pm during August and September.

Friday, August 8

• Romeo and Juliet at Peel Castle, 6pm. Tickets £22, children £12. Also Saturday.

Palace Cinema

• Guardians of the Galaxy, 3d (12a). Nightly at 7pm. 2D, daily matinee at 2pm.

• The Purge Anarchy, (15). Nightly at 7.30pm.

• Planes 2 Fire & Rescue, (U). Daily at 2pm.

Broadway Cinema

• Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, 3D, (12A). Nightly at 7.30pm.

• How to Train Your Dragon 2, 2D, (PG). Daily at 11.30am.

• Earth to Echo, (PG). Daily at 2pm and 4.30pm.

Wednesday, August 13

• Aug: Erin Arts Centre, Stormbreaker, 7.30pm.

Thursday, August 7

• Manx Retirement Association stretch and flex at the NSC, Douglas, at 10am. Also Saturday, a visit to the Calf of Man at 9am. Tuesday, southern coffee morning at the Cherry Orchard Hotel, Port Erin, at 10.30am. Miniature golf at the Onchan Pleasure Park, at 2pm.

• Manx Footpaths Conservation Group walk, Axnfell Plantation car park, 10.30am.

• 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.

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

Monday, August 11

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

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

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

• 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, August 12

• 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 room, Baldrine, 2pm. Call 818194.

• 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.

• The Isle of Man Amateur Radio Society, Sea Cadet hall, Tromode, 8pm.

Wednesday, August 13

• 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, 7.30pm. Call 818194.

• Isle of Man Chess Club, Belsfield Hotel, Church Road Marina, Douglas, 7.30pm. Call Alan Robertson 495097. New members welcome.

Thursday, August 7

• Free female football fitness sessions, NSC sports hall, Douglas, 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 Wednesdays and Fridays at 12.15pm-12.45pm and Tuesdays and Fridays at 9.15am-9.45am, call Shelley 487270. Tuesday, Tae-Bo at 5.45pm-6.30pm, kettlebells at 6.30pm-7.15pm, call Kate 347160. Wednesday, kettlebell core, 6pm-7pm, also Saturdays 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, Douglas, 9.30am–11.30am; also Mondays, Poulsom Park, Castletown, 9.45am – 11.30am, £1.50. Racquet Sports and Boccia, 12.15pm–1pm NSC, £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. Call 812100.

• 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, 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, Fridays 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, 6pm-7pm. £8. Jillian’s Unique Fitness Solutions, 48 Loch Promenade, Douglas. Call 376574.

• Anti-gravity yoga at Savina’s 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 Savina’s Secret Studio, Glen Falcon Road, Douglas, 7.45pm. Call 203502.

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

Friday, August 8

• Pilates at The Pilates Studio, Viking Longhouse, Middle Wharf, Peel, at 9.30am and The Studio, Falcon Road, Douglas, at 1pm; Monday, The Pilates Studio, Viking Longhouse, Middle Wharf, Peel, at 9.30am and Colby Methodist hall at 6pm; Wednesday, The Pilates Studio, Viking Longhouse, Middle Wharf, Peel, at 5.15pm and 6.30pm. Thursday, The Pilates Studio, Viking Longhouse, Middle Wharf, Peel, at 10am (chair-based Pilates for older, frailer adults) and beginners’ Pilates, 6.15pm. Saturday, 10am, The Pilates Studio, Peel. Equipment provided. Ring Lizzy Main on 427401 or visit www.pilates-isle-of-man.co.uk

• Zumba classes advanced, 10.30am. Also Tuesday Zumba intermediate, 8.30am, and Zumba for beginners, Tuesday and Friday, 9.45am at Zumba Isle of Man, Silvercraigs Hotel. Call 677776 or visit www.zumbaisleofman.com

• Acrobatics, The 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, Douglas, 7.30pm. Call 612305.

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

Saturday, August 9

• 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, August 10

• Reikido, The Royal British Legion, Port Erin, 11am-12.30pm. Also Monday 8pm-9pm. Call Nick on 398955.

• Bowling club night, Port Erin Bowling Club, Breagle Glen, 4pm-6pm.

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

Monday, August 11

• 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. TERM TIME ONLY

• Disability swimming sessions, NSC, Douglas, 3pm-4pm, £1.55. Also Tuesday, 6pm-7pm. TERM TIME ONLY

• 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, August 12

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

• Pilates at 9.15am, 38 Woodbourne Square, Douglas. Pilates at 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. TERM TIME ONLY

• 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, August 13

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

• Balance and Pilates, 10.30am, Manx Legion 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.

A pan left on a stove prompted a fire service call-out this morning.

At about 11.25am, firefighters from the Peel station responded to the report of a smoke alarm sounding and smoke coming out of a property in Beach Street, Peel.

Nobody inside the property and firefighters found that the smoke was being generated by a pan left on the stove but that there was no fire

The property was vented using a fan to clear the smoke and there was no obvious damage to the kitchen or the rest of the house.

The road in the area had to be closed while fire crews were in attendance.

A fire service spokesman said: ‘We would like to thank those people affected for their patience and the person making the 999 call for their timely actions.’

Police this afternoon named the motorcyclist who was killed in an accident near Bulgham rocks yesterday.

He was Neil Walker, a 43-year-old father of two from Ramsey.

Mr Walker was well known through his work as a joiner and as a retained fireman.

Chief fire officer Kevin Groom said the incident was devastating and a tragedy.

‘He was a truly professional firefighter who had served at Ramsey fire station for over 22 years,’ he said.

‘On behalf of all staff of the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue I send sincere condolences to his wife, children, family and friends at this sad and difficult time.’

Power had to be turned off and minibuses laid on to transport stranded tram passengers when debris from yesterday’s accident near Bulgham rocks landed on the MER lines.

Police were already on the Laxey coast road just minutes away from the accident, which happened soon after midday.

Sergeant Andy Kneen from Ramsey police station said the power had to be cut as a precaution, bringing some trams to a halt in mid trip.

He added the message had got out quickly and drivers had responded well using the diversion which was quickly put in place using the Ballaragh road from Minorca crossroads through to Dhoon.

The coast road reopened at 5.45pm once accident investigations were complete.

Police from Douglas roads policing unit and from Ramsey were joined at the accident scene by an ambulance and a paramedic response car. A fire engine with a lifting platform was used later so accident investigators could photograph the scene from above using the aerial platform.

Department of Infrastructure vehicle testers were also at the scene to examine the vehicles involved - a Kawasaki motorcycle and a silver VW Golf.

The driver of the Golf was treated in hospital for a minor head injury but later released. His two passengers were shaken but uninjured.

Though a number of witnesses were spoken to at the scene, police have appealed for anyone else with information to contact them on 631212

The accident was one of two which occurred within hours of each other on Wednesday afternoon.

The other saw a driver being cut from his car after it ran off the road near the Liverpool Arms.

{http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/isle-of-man-news/motorcyclist-dies-in-road-tragedy-1-6771570|Click here to read our initial report about the tragedy}

An island-based Louis Group investor has been awarded compensation of £100,000 after their complaint about mis-selling was upheld.

The complaint is one of three case studies detailed in the annual report of the Financial Services Ombudsman.

Investors, many of the island-based, fear they will never see their money again when the Louis Group’s Isle of Man-based fund, promoted as ‘low risk,’ was suspended, unable to pay its multimillion-pound debts. Some £25m of their savings ‘vanished without trace’, they claim.

The Louis Group Structured Fund PLC and five related companies was wound up in the high court last year.

In 2013/14, the Financial Services Ombudsman dealt with 277 complaints, of which 119 were about life insurance, 93 about banking, 32 about general insurance and 14 about investment advice. Seven complaints were about money lenders.

Of cases that were closed, many were deemed to be outside the scope of the Ombudsman while others were resolved through mediation or with a fair offer made by the provider.

Three cases were determined by the adjudicator, including one about the mis-selling of a Louis Group product.

The complainants had invested £145,000 in a Louis Group Property Investment and Cession of Securities Agreement which had a maturity date of November 1, 2012. At the time, the complainants made it clear they required a low-risk product.

But following an investigation, the Ombudsman concluded this was a complicated and risky investment which was not in line with the complainants’ risk profile.

Moreover, it found the director of the supplier was not in a position to give independent advice as his involvement with the Louis Group created a conflict of interest.

‘The supplier knew that the investment was unregulated and unprotected by any Statutory Compensation Scheme in the event of failure, but failed to inform the complainants accordingly,’ concluded the adjudicator.

The Ombudsman concluded that the complainants were entitled to compensation for the loss of £145,000 but the amount of compensation had to be capped at £100,000 – the maximum sum which can be awarded.

An organisation that plays an important role in the smooth running of the island’s criminal justice system is looking to appoint four new members.

The Parole Committee is responsible for making recommendations to the Minister for Home Affairs regarding the release and recall of prisoners.

When prisoners are released on licence, the committee may also make recommendations regarding the conditions applied to such licences; the variation or cancellation of these conditions; and any other matter which is connected with the release or recall of prisoners.

While no formal qualifications are required, prospective new members should have good ‘life experience’, a keen interest in the role and the time and energy to devote to monthly meetings.

An open mind, tact, diplomacy, and professionalism are essential attributes, as are a strong sense of justice, confidentiality and discretion.

An allowance is paid for attending monthly meetings and travel expenses are also available.

Juan Watterson MHK, Minister for Home Affairs, said: ‘Liberty is a valued possession, and the state has many safeguards before it is taken away.

‘The Parole Committee provide the final gateway between prison and freedom.

‘It is their responsibility to judge whether individuals should be released back into the community and on what terms. It is a role that requires common sense, judgement and a commitment to the values we hold dear in the Manx community.’

People interested can get a pack by:

· Collecting it in person from the Department of Home Affairs, Homefield, 88 Woodbourne Road, Douglas, IM2 3AP;

· Downloading it from the Department of Home Affairs website {http://www.gov.im/categories/home-and-neighbourhood/parole-committee/|here}

· Requesting a copy be sent to you by contacting Sharon Baldwin either by e-mail (Sharon.baldwin@gov.im) or by telephone on 694318.

Applications should be submitted to the Department by no later than 5pm on Friday, August 22.

A short film extolling the joys of sheep farming in the island has won the National Sheep Association’s (NSA) film competition.

The documentary, made by Krista Magee, features Manx farms, focussing mainly on BallaKarran in Union Mills and will be shown at the farm’s stand at the Royal Manx Agricultural Show, tomorrow (Friday) and Saturday.

‘When we, at BallaKarran, saw the film competition advertised in The Sheep Farmer, we knew that it was something that we could be a part of,’ said Janette Qualtrough, who runs the farm with her husband Will. They wanted a film to use on promotional stands, she said.

‘Farming is very much a rewarding way of life, although difficult at times, there are so many different life skills that you gain from it and can teach your children. The competition asked for a film to promote new farmers into the sheep industry and to show how beautiful your part of the UK is.

‘The Isle of Man is such a beautiful place to live, it was easy to show off how outstanding it is.

‘Will is a first generation farmer and the competition seemed appropriate for us to get involved in, to help the NSA show what can be achieved with some hard work, motivation and commitment.’

They approached Krista about making the film, She said: ‘It’s them (farmers) that we have to thank for taking care of our beautiful island. Not to mention the fact that they are growing and rearing our food supplies ... I’ve never really understood the comparison of why bankers get such enormous bonuses when farmers do such important work ... When BallaKarran introduced me to the competition, I couldn’t wait to work with them and their family to try to highlight the hard work that they and other farmers put into our community.’
Krista thanked Janette and Will, also Pentti Christian and John Quayle of Glen Lough, for their help.

youtube.com/watch?v=9z9zcDnnlU0

Edgewater Associates has embarked upon a significant new expansion programme with the appointment of three new members to its financial consultancy team.

Rob O’Connor, Sid Ludbe and Heather Roberts have been appointed to the Isle of Man based financial services provider as senior financial consultant and client managers, respectively, in a measure which reinforces the company’s offering during a period of change for the industry.

Rob O’Connor joins Edgewater as a senior financial consultant drawing upon 24 years in the financial services industry in roles as diverse as senior business development manager, senior relationship manager, and senior IFA/wealth manager advising both private and corporate clients in the domestic and international arenas.

Having travelled extensively during his career, Mr O’Connor benefits from an extensive portfolio and has gained a number of professional certifications including qualifications from the Chartered Institute of Bankers in Economics and Banking Law, and a Level 4 Diploma gained in adherence to Retail Distribution Review (RDR) requirements with the Chartered Institute of Insurers.

A highly motivated and professional individual with a proven track record of achievement in compliant sales, private banking, wealth management and senior management, Mr O’Connor looks forward to what he describes as ‘the fantastic opportunity to meet new challenges, build long-term client relationships, and get the job done.’

He said: ‘Today’s financial services industry is based on the solid, open and transparent provision of services to both private and corporate clients, and for an ever-increasing range of services. Edgewater is a company that was built on these principles from the start, and I am proud to join them at this important juncture.’

Sid Ludbe draws upon extensive client relations experience to join Edgewater Associates as a client manager.

Mr Ludbe will assume responsibility for the provision of full administrative support to Edgewater financial consultancy team, as well as existing and new clients.

A positive and passionate individual, with a sincere desire to help others with a knowledgeable, detail oriented and responsible approach to business, Mr Ludbe is currently studying towards achieving the Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, with the goal of also reaching QCF Level 4 standard in accordance with RDR requirements.

He said: ‘Joining Edgewater is an invaluable opportunity to help others as a professional’.

Heather Roberts celebrates her appointment as client manager after 18 years in similar roles, the last five of which were spent in a managerial capacity overseeing both Isle of Man and Gibraltar based client portfolios.

Ms Roberts began her financial services career as office manager, before moving into the independent financial advisory industry as a senior business associate in 1996.

Since then, Ms Roberts has worked in such roles as technical associate and team leader, with a process and compliance driven approach to large portfolio management that furnishes her well for her new role with Edgewater.

Ms Roberts will provide administrative and technical support to a team of financial consultants, including day to day relationship management, as well as provide high quality financial planning reporting.

Director Sandra Cardwell said: ‘The success of Edgewater Associates is the result of a fine balance between our independent status, which allows us to research a wide range of pensions, investments, mortgages and insurance products, and our in-depth knowledge of the local market.’

Israel’s first Bedouin diplomat – a Muslim called Ishmael Khaldi – will give a talk at St Mary’s on the Harbour in Castletown this Saturday at 11.30am.

He was invited to speak in Castletown by church vicar Rev Dr Jules Gomes, who said: ‘Someone told me about him, he was a Bedouin, I have been to Israel a number of times and there have been occasions when I have been walking in the desert and spotted by Bedouins who have taken the time and come up to me – in miles and miles of sand – and say: “Do you know there’s something wrong, you are wearing the wrong sort of shoes.” They can tell by the footprint.

‘I wrote him an email and was thrilled when he wrote back and sent me a copy of his book telling his extraordinary story.’

His book – A Shepherd’s Journey – describes his journey from the Bedouin village of Khawalid in Western Galilee to working as a diplomat for the Israeli government.

He gained a BA in political science from the University of Haifa, a Masters degree in International Relations from Tel Aviv University, served in the Israeli Defence Force, Defence Ministry and Israeli police before joining the Foreign ministry.

He acted as the spokesman to the Arabic media during Israel’s disengagement from Gaza. He also served as Deputy Consul General in San Francisco and is policy advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Although the theme of his talk in Castletown is minorities – of which he has first hand experience – it will inevitably stray into controversial areas such as Israel’s relationship with Palestine and particularly, given recent events, the Gaza Strip.

Mr Khalid is used to controversy. He has talked at venues throughout the world about Israel, often meeting hostility.

‘He is being attacked verbally and almost physically,’ said Rev Dr Gomes. ‘At universities he has been called a trouble maker, when he is a peacemaker trying to build bridges.

‘Israel is a haven for religious minorities in the Middle East. It is the only country [which is a haven] in the Middle East. There is a significant rise in the exodus of Christians everywhere else due to militant Islam. We are talking about the birthplace of Christianity.

‘Iraqi Christians are the oldest Christians in the world, Egyptians speak Coptic which is very close to Amharic, the language Christ spoke. It [Christianity] is being eradicated from the place it was born.’

This talks offers the chance to absorb a unique perspective of one of the most complex contemporary political issues.

Rev Gomes said: ‘I do not mind if his talk is controversial because people need to ask difficult questions and need to understand it is a difficult debate.

‘In a world of sound bite journalism where the image says it all, the most heart rending image is not necessarily the truth.’

A yacht broke its moorings in Port St Mary last weekend and ended up marooned on Gansey Point.
The 26-foot Manx-registered yacht, Ashleyder, was moored at the outer harbour when she broke away in gusty conditions on either Saturday night or Sunday morning. 
Sadly the damage to the yacht’s hull means she has been written off, explained Steve George from Ramsey Shipping Services (RSS).

He added: ‘There is a huge tear on her starboard side where she fell over onto the rocks. We [RSS] removed all the pollutants like oil and petrol and JCK is going to take her away this afternoon [Wednesday] by tractor and break her up.’

Peel and St John’s will be looking to win another trophy when they play in the Standard Bank T20 finals on Sunday at Tromode.

The Saints became champions of the Standard Bank Premiership last week and have also topped the T20 Cain league.

Their record here was 10 victories from 10 games and in the Karran they lost only one match.

On Sunday the top four sides in the Cain battle it out for the President’s Cup. At 10am Cronkbourne play Castletown and at 1pm Peel and St John’s take on Crosby. The final is due to start at 4.15pm.

A great day’s cricket is in prospect with most pundits expecting Cronkbourne to meet the Saints in the final. However, there could be some surprises in store.

Although there are still a few evening fixtures left, the champions in the T20 Forrester leagues are now known.

Crosby B have topped Forrester One after a close fought battle with Peel and St John’s B. The Marown side have completed all their games with the Saints having one match remaining. However, as they are three points behind, they cannot catch the leaders.

This is the eighth time Crosby have won this league. They went through the season with only one defeat (at home to Ramsey) and ended their campaign with five straight wins.

Cronkbourne Bacchas had a great chance to win the Forrester Two. Victory in their final games would have given them the title, but they lost two of their last three matches. One of these was against Finch Hill who ended in first place, just one point ahead of Bacchas with Castletown C in third spot.

The junior divisions have also been well contested. Finch Hill are currently top of the Under-15 League, but there are still more games to be played here.

Cronkbourne A have won the Under-12 league with a 100 per cent record. Finch Hill A and Cronkbourne B tied for second place. Seven sides took part in this division and there were some very close contests.

The Under-Nine Tournaments were a resounding success. A total of 55 games were played with Finch Hill A winning 15, Crosby A having 11 victories and Cronkbourne 10.

Eight teams took part and the tournaments were held all around the island. Many thanks are due to organiser Graeme Healy and all the coaches who made this year such a hit.

But there is still more to come. On Sunday, August 17 there is the Under-Nine Cup competition at Ballafletcher. This should be an excellent finish to the junior season.

CRICKET RESULTS

Junior Under-12 League

Ramsey (239) lost to Cronkbourne B (285)

The mighty Viking ship, the Draken Harald Hårfagre made a spectacular return to Peel Harbour on Tuesday.

Under full sail, having been fitted with a new mast in Liverpool, the Draken Harald Hårfagre, the world’s largest operational Viking ship, sailed into harbour on Tuesday morning, having sailed overnight across the Irish sea.

She then treated crowds to a sailing display around the bay.

A large crowd was waiting to greet them as the ship made its way through the harbour gates. Once docked skipper Bjorn Ahlander and oars master Tora Heide were officially welcomed at Peel Town hall by Peel Commissioners chairman Ray Harmer.

‘We love to come here’, Bjorn told them. Thank you for taking us into this beautiful harbour. It’s my favourite place I’ve seen. Maybe we’ll come every year now.’

Bjorn and the crew hope to see more of the island and, above all, relax following the struggles to get the mast repaired and the ship back to its proper state.

On the voyage down from Norway two months ago, the ship’s mast cracked and broke away in the North Sea, leaving the ship reliant on its engine.

The ship’s carpenters were sent to find a suitable tree to replace it, which was then taken to Liverpool to be shaped, fettled and installed, meaning the Draken could finally unveil its stunning red silk sail.

‘It’s much, much better to be under sail,’ said Bjorn. ‘It’s very hard to row, as we can’t do it for very long. But sailing is much better. We’re going to sail all the way from now on.’

Once in a while, someone comes along who leaves an indelible impression on your life. Kate Burge was one of those people.

It is no doubt correct to say that in the three years since she settled in the island she made an impression on a lot people!

Kate took up a post as a senior physiotherapist at Noble’s Hospital in 2011 and has come into close contact with many hundreds of people since then.

They will remember her, because apart from her professional expertise and dedication she was a very happy, chatty person, always wanting to know what made people tick; congratulating them on their achievements or remarking on somebody else’s performances and successes.

She was too modest to talk of her own extensive palmares of athletic expertise.

A regular leading ranked performer on British Athletics’ Power of 10 rankings, the Stafford Harriers woman had a 10km best of 35min 47sec (good enough to win many a race outright in the Isle of Man), plus an equally impressive 10-mile time of 58m 27s.

Her five-mile best of 27.39 put her high in the UK rankings in 2003.

Kate was also a very strong cyclist and the combination of the two resulted in her finishing 10th in the ITU Duathlon World Championships in 1996. She became the UK’s standard distance elite class women’s duathlon champion the following year.

An excellent swimmer, she was also a very capable triathlete, winning the Shropshire UK Triathlon Championships in both 1994 and 1995 (other winners include Chrissie Wellington).

She also won many other events, the above are simply a few highlights.

A leg injury incurred while training on the fells shortly after she set foot in the island curtailed her running to a large extent.

She contested the odd fell event, but said that she paid for it the following day with excessive pain.

Instead Kate turned to cycling, swimming, yoga and numerous other physical pursuits. She approached them all with the same determination and seemed to have a built-in natural ability.

In short she was super fit.

As a popular addition to the Saturday morning scone run rides, she’d be as strong or stronger than anyone on a 50-mile ride, then she’d go to Ramsey pool and complete a masters training session.

She was an accomplished exponent of yoga and was local instructor Dave Smyth’s regular training partner.

This shining light was extinguished in a blink in what was a tragic, brutal accident in Kirk Michael on Monday evening when she and two of her dearest friends decided to ride the long way home to Laxey after a full day’s work.

God bless you Kate, it was an honour and a privilege to know you.

John Watterson

The section of sea wall on Mooragh Promenade that collapsed in flooding in February could soon be replaced if planning approval is granted for the work.

The promenade in Ramsey was one of the casualties of a big spring tide and strong winds.

Now the Department of Infrastructure is seeking approval (14/00884/B) to replace a 70-metre section of collapsed sea wall, which should provide better protection. It will be raised by about 30cm and incorporate a ‘wave return feature’.

A DoI spokesman told the Manx Independent: ‘The wave return is a concave face to the wall which prevents waves from overtopping the wall and provides extra protection for the toe of the wall. Curved sea walls aim to redirect most of the incident energy, resulting in low reflected waves and much reduced turbulence.’

The DoI hope work will start early next year, subject to planning and funding approval. Construction costs are estimated at about £350,000.

Ramsey Commissioners are due to discuss the application at this month’s meeting.

Town clerk Peter Whiteway said commissioners had been concerned the weakness in the wall could lead to further damage.

‘We are pleased to see work being done in the area because it will return it to a presentable section of promenade and protect the coast line from further damage. We do have some concern for the future whether further work will be needed to ensure the remaining section of promenade will be safe.’

Torrential rain in the morning couldn’t deter scores of people from enjoying the 68th Sulby Horticultural Show on Saturday afternoon.

The annual show awarded a host of prizes for all manner of produce, arts and crafts, with 61 trophies and 69 special prizes shared amongst the impressive 1,200 entries.

Michael Garrett secured the ‘best in show’ award, the Merle Matthews Trophy, for his three spectacular sunset orange gladioli flowers.

A new trophy, the Billy and Barbara Graham Memorial Cup for best junior, was awarded to 11-year-old Niamh Rowe of Douglas for her miniature garden entry.

Gail Curphey’s hand-made soft toys, ‘The Curphey Bears’, were declared best in section for soft handicrafts.

John Kaighen, grandson of William Kaighen and the late Jean Kaighen, was very successful as a novice entrant in a variety of vegetable classes, taking home four trophies.

The Milntown team earned more trophies and prizes this year, successfully retaining the Lady Collett Challenge Cup for the parish resident with most points in the fruit and vegetable classes.

Previous exhibitor Kathleen Kneale of Ballanelson was welcomed back to the show and went home with six cups and two special prizes for her exceptional entries in the vegetable and flower sections.

The junior section was given a huge boost by 140 separate entries from the students of Sulby School, and their hard work was rewarded with trophies and many individual prizes in the junior crafts section.

Show treasurer Kevin Martin secured four trophies and six prizes for a variety of winning entries in classes as diverse as vegetable growing and photography.

Elaine Hamilton, a show committee member, secured both the Daisy Kelly Memorial Trophy and Silver Cup for the most points in the confectionery classes, baking a vast number of cakes.

Parkland Tiddlers won an arts and crafts class prize for their giant bumblebee.

Meanwhile the new treasure hunt kept the younger visitors busy, with Megan Lord being drawn as the winner and receiving a selection of prizes.

Michael MHK Alfred Cannan was joined by his wife Bella in the show-opening duties, with Francesca Lord of Sulby presenting posies to the dignitaries. Mr Cannan gave a moving speech, linking in the relationship to growing your own produce, self-sufficiency and a timely commemoration of the First World War.

The organising committee thanked all who exhibited, attended, and helped on the day.

They paid special tribute to their sponsors, supporters and prize donors, especially the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, who provided a travel voucher for a car and two passengers as the star raffle prize.