There’s been an unprecedented response to the public consultation on parking charges and concessionary bus fares.

No fewer than 1,761 people responded to the survey.

There was broad support to the principle of reintroducing charges on school buses – but very different views on how much should be charged.

Unsurprisingly there was little support for the idea of making all government staff pay to park at work – an idea that has sparked outcry particularly from teachers and firemen among others.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne said: ‘It’s a big response and it’s great so many people have taken the time to fill in the questionnaire. The assurance I will give to everyone is that their views will be listened to very carefully.’

But he added: ‘This is not, though, a referendum. We have to take decisions based on rational judgement.

‘There is an overwhelming need for government to find ways of making and saving money but this can’t just be about saving money. It has to be about common sense and clever solutions to overall problems.’

The Department of Infrastructure is looking to make cost savings of £5 million in this financial year.

Mr Gawne admitted there were some options that he did not believe were workable. ‘There are elements which I personally would not consider.’

Turning to the options to charge on school buses, two thirds of those who responded said they agreed with the principle of charging something. Some 73 per cent said they department should continue subsidising school buses.

An overwhelming 95 per cent of respondents said they believed it appropriate for children who live a mile away from school, to walk – and those who lives two miles away, to cycle.

A total of 54 per cent were in favour of charging a flat rate fare of 50p. Some 7 per cent agreed children ought to pay half fare, 13 per cent said they should pay £1 and 66 per cent would be happy for children to pay a 20p flat fare.

Mr Gawne said the figures didn’t reflect the level of support for charges from families who would have had to pay.

{http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/education/parking-fees-for-teachers-nurses-firemen-and-police-1-6689985|A previous story about this}

{http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/isle-of-man-news/government-considering-charging-for-on-street-parking-1-6680934|Click here to read our first story about the proposals}

The revamped Noble’s Park derby took place for the first time on Wednesday evening and saw Douglas and District defeat Governor’s Athletic 3-1 in JCK Division Two.

Chances fell to both teams in the first half, but it was Manx football’s new boys who took the lead when Luke Booth’s superb free-kick flew into the net.

After the break, both goalkeepers Adam Bennett and Will Gavin pulled off excellent saves to deny Daniel Clague-Stewart and Booth respectively.

However, in the 73rd minute D and D equalised following a corner, sub Rob Jones chesting the ball before arrowing a volley into the top-right corner of the net.

As a first league point for Governor’s looked on the cards, two D and D goals in the closing stages ensured it was them that finished with maximum points.

Kevin Doyle’s free-kick was half-cleared to Richard Sparkes who drilled his shot hard and low and into the bottom left to make it 2-1. With the match in added time, D and D and Danny Scott capitalised on another half-clearance to fire in a third.

Governors Athletic: Adam Bennett, Mark Morley, Steven Gallagher, Chris Armstrong (Lorcan O’Mahony 86m), Anthony Montgomery (Danny Cain 69m), Damian Fratczak (Jamie Bridson 65m), Luke Booth, Alex Graham, Chris Clague, Andrew Dudgeon, Ben Doyle.

D&D: Will Gavin, Luke Stewart (Jake Turner-Oliver 51m), Dean Kinley (George Christian 54m), Richard Sparkes, Chris Bowers, Simon Taylor, Paul Gavin, Kevin Doyle, Daniel Stewart-Clague, Danny Scott, Aaron Bradley (Rob Jones 70m).

JCK Division Two

Castletown 0-3 Braddan

Douglas Royal 2-3 Douglas Athletic

Marown 4-4 Pulrose Utd

Governor’s Athletic 1-3 Douglas and District

RYCOB 2-1 Foxdale

Canada Life Combination One

Ramsey 7-1 Ayre United

Laxey 2-3 DHSOB

Peel 7-0 Michael United

Gymns 5-5 St John’s United

St George 5-5 St Mary’s

Write St George’s off at your peril. Geordies outlined their title ambitions in the Canada Life Premier League with a devastating first-half spell and finished 5-2 winners over St Mary’s at the Bowl on Tuesday.

After successfully negotiating a problematic opening match away at Blackberry Lane, this was another challenging hurdle which the champions passed with flying colours.

The two teams met in the Charity Shield in the season’s curtain-raiser where lessons were learnt after Geordies surrendered a two-goal lead.

However, on Wednesday evening the champions took only three minutes to puncture the opposing defence. Sam Caine was the recipient of a through-ball which he placed into the bottom corner.

Frank Jones doubled their lead six minutes later following an intricate passing move just outside the penalty area.

St Mary’s reduced the deficit after being awarded a free-kick just outside the opposing box and Marc Priestnal’s set-piece found Mark Wolfenden who applied the important touch to make it 2-1.

The Bowl outfit’s joy was short-lived though as Jones was sent tumbling in the penalty area and the visitors were awarded a spot-kick. Ciaran McNulty opted for power, goalkeeper Max Thomas parried but Calum Morrissey reacted the quickest, galloping into the box to place home.

The hosts found the target for the second occasion after they were awarded a penalty of their own and Steven Priestnal confidently drilled his effort just inside the left stanchion.

As the match approached half-time, there was a contender for goal of the season when Terry Rigaux’s half volley from 35 yards flew over the stranded Thomas and into the net to make it 4-2.

After the break, St George’s soaked up the hosts’ pressure and hit St Mary’s on the counter. One such occasion saw Geordies net their fifth when Morrissey started and finished the move, playing it wide to Jones who raced into the penalty area before setting up the striker to score their fifth.

However, the remainder of the second half saw both teams continue to play at a fast tempo but was devoid of any real goal-mouth incident as Geordies finished with their 100 per cent record still intact.

TEAM CHECK

St Mary’s: Max Thomas, Paul Doyle, Tom Charmers, Dom McGreevy, Karl Clark, Josh Thomas, Stephen Whitley, Martin Reilly, Steven Priestnal, Mark Wolfenden, Marc Priestnal

Subs not used: Keith O’Sullivan, Ryan Jones, Connor Birch

St George’s: Andrew Perry, Liam Cowin, Julian Ringham (Terry Rigaux 23m) Sean Quaye, Jack McVey, Sam Caine (Johnny Myers 75m) Tom Weir, Frank Jones, Conor Doyle, Calum Morrissey, Ciaran McNulty. Sub not used: Graham Lyons

Enduro star David Knight has announced that he is to take a short break from competitive action.

Knighter, without a team after leaving Sherco earlier this summer, took to social media on Monday to state that, because of financial constraints, he will not be competing in the near future.

In a statement on Facebook, the Manxman said: ‘Unfortunately due to lack of funds and not being a part of any team, I’ll not be able to compete in any up-and-coming races in the near future.

‘Over the years I’ve always put in 110 per cent effort and never been afraid to spend my own money to stand the best possible chance of doing the best job I can.

‘But I can no longer afford to race, never mind to do it properly.’ he continued.

‘I’m absolutely gutted and pretty upset at the situation which seems to be getting more and more common, especially after finishing a strong second in the Indoor World Championship and many other wins and podiums against the best in the world this year, without any proper support and on machines nowhere near the spec of some of the opposition.

Ramsey Commissioners have changed the design for a Great War memorial – after a government Minister told them a cross might leave some residents feeling ‘excluded’.

The initial design was for a cross of ceramic tiles, each decorated with a poppy and inscribed with the name and date of death of each of the 120 servicemen who lost their lives in the First World War, to be placed on the side wall of the Courthouse.

But following intervention by the Home Affairs Minister Juan Watterson MHK the panel will now be in the form of a rectangle and not a cross.

In an email to the commissioners, Mr Watterson asked them to review their original concept, pointing out that the Courthouse is a registered building and that his department has received comments from members of the public regarding the placing of a religious symbol on a civic and non-religious building.

He said the current community is not necessarily all-Christian in belief and that some residents, while supportive of the desire to recognise and commemorate the sacrifice of those who fought in the First World War, may ‘feel excluded by the use of a Christian symbol for such purpose’.

He added: ‘You will appreciate that I have also become aware of these plans through my chairmanship of the Isle of Man Government War Memorials Preservation Committee.

‘In that guise, I support the views of many that, when the Cenotaph was built, it was deliberately without religious connotation, likewise the many “swords of sacrifice”.

‘Whilst I would accept that many of those who left Ramsey will be Christian men, it is perhaps a step too far to presume this of all of them.

‘I would therefore hope that further consideration is given to the shape of the memorial.’

Speaking at the monthly board meeting, commissioner Graham Jones said: ‘I have never heard such rubbish in my life. The cross is not a Christian symbol – it predates Christianity by hundreds if not thousands of years.’

Commissioner Richard Radcliffe agreed with Mr Jones and added: ‘I find it disappointing that the government of this island thinks that a cross could cause offence to people.

‘There is far too much kowtowing to the perceived sensibilities of the minority.

‘If people don’t want to honour our traditions, there’s always an alternative in the morning.’

Despite their resentment against Mr Watterson, the board agreed to a new proposal be drawn up by artist Michael Starkey for a rectangular panel composed of 120 four-inch tiles, which will build up to depict the image of a single poppy.

Details of the fallen records will be discussed and agreed with the Royal British Legion.

The panel will be constructed in the town hall, with tiles being laid at regular intervals so the picture builds up over the four commemorative years.

A permanent location has yet to be decided.

What do you think? Does Mr Watterson have a point? Or do you think that it’s ridiculous to think that a cross coud cause offence?

Email opinions@newsiom.co.im or comment below.

We mentioned this story in our promotion for the Isle of Man Examiner, where the report first appeared.

It generated a number of comments.

{http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/isle-of-man-news/war-memorial-should-not-be-in-the-form-of-a-cross-in-case-it-excludes-some-people-1-6804332|Click here to read them}

The public in the west of the island will get their chance to quiz police chiefs about cuts to their budget on Tuesday, September 23.

The Western Police Consultive Forum (PCF) will hold a public meeting at Peel’s Centenary Centre starting at 7pm which will give people the opportunity to voice any concerns they have over the cuts to Chief Constable Gary Roberts and Home Affairs Minister Juan Watterson MHK.

The Manx police force’s budget has been reduced from £15.8m to £12.5m in the past five years which has resulted in the number of officers being cut by 11 per cent.

Police stations in Lord Street and Port Erin are to close.

From late September, when Port Erin police station closes, the focus of policing in the south will be in Castletown.

Discussions are continuing about the station relocating from its current location opposite the entrance to Castle Rushen to the Civic Centre, the commissioners’ base.

Former MHK Walter Gilbey, a member of the western PCF, said: ‘This is an important matter for the public. It’s a mistake and could be disastrous.

‘They should gradually increase the budget back to the levels it was before.’

The western meeting is one of a series of four PCF meetings being held around the island.

Public meetings have already been held in the Douglas and in the south of the island.

A meeting in the north of the island is being arranged for the autumn.

The PCF is an independent body made up of community representatives that seeks the views of the public regarding policing and the prevention of crime.

Up to six UK banks are ‘actively engaged’ in talks with the island government about having a presence here.

It would be a tremendous boost if one or all these financial organisations decided to set up in the island.

And it would help to revive morale in the island’s banking sector following a spate of hammer blows for the sector including job losses and bank closures here in recent months.

In a hard-hitting interview with Business News, Laurence Skelly, Economic Development Minister told of his hopes to grow the economy while he is in the hot seat.

Mr Skelly took over at the helm of the giant government department in a cabinet reshuffle last month, taking over from John Shimmin who was forced to resign over the Sefton bail-out.

Mr Skelly said the job losses in banking were ‘not unexpected’.

He said: ‘I would point to the Vision 20/20 document that we produced a little while ago and it clearly indicated this industry would contract.

But while it is disappointing to lose jobs what’s more significant is the fact that we have a net gain in jobs . In other words these jobs that have been lost have actually been consumed elsewhere.

‘Our philosophy is that for quite a number of years we have been continuing to diversify our economy so it has been able to pick up those jobs in other sectors where those skills could easily be transferred, eGaming being one of them.’

Also the life insurance industry is said to be doing ‘very well’ in the island.

The Minister is keen to stress it’s not all doom and gloom as regards banking jobs. Simon Pickering, head of retail services at the DED said some of the island’s banks were in fact taking new staff on.

These included Barclays where those jobs that were being lost to a Glasgow call centre would be replaced by new roles.

Mr Pickering said the department was ‘actively engaged’ with six UK banks with regards to them potentially having operations in the Isle of Man.

‘I can’t name the banks obviously and I can’t promise anything but hopefully we will have some new banking blood here in the next six to 12 months.’

Asked how far advanced talks were on this Mr Pickering said: ‘One of them has gone to regional director level .

‘They are existing operations in the UK.’

Mr Skelly said: ‘Without being overly optimistic about it we recognise how the industry has contracted; it still has a journey to travel and so we are very conscious of that.

‘Our working relationship with the banking and finance sector is very close and has been for many years. We also work very closely with the Chamber of Commerce.

‘If we can bring a bank here in the short to medium term that would be a huge, huge benefit to our economy and the Isle of Man.’

He said while headlines were about job losses there was growth in other areas that helped cushion that.

‘The reputation of the Isle of Man is very strong.

‘The professional services of the Isle of Man are very well respected.’

Emergency services were called out to deal with a serious road accident between Lower Foxdale and St John’s involving a car and a van.

Foxdale Road, between The Hope and Mines Road, was closed following the collision which took place at the junction with the Ballahig farm at about 10.50am this morning.

Firefighters used cutting equipment to free the driver and a passenger trapped in a Peugeot van.

Four occupants of a Ford Focus, including three young children, were able to be removed safely, and all six were taken to Noble’s Hospital with injuries ranging to serious.

Due to the number of casualties, two road ambulances were used and the emergency rescue helicopter was mobilised to transport two casualties to Noble’s.

Fire crews were at the scene for about 90 minutes making the vehicles safe.

The road was closed while police carried out accident investigations.

Fire engines from Peel and Douglas and the Enhanced Rescue Vehicle were called to deal with the incident.

Station officer Roger Brown said: ‘The first attending appliance from Peel were faced with two people trapped in a small commercial van.

‘Working with ambulance paramedics, crews using hydraulic cutting equipment and stabilisation equipment were able to cut the vehicle to free the casualties and safely remove them from the vehicle.’

Inspector Derek Flint said: ‘I attended the scene as senior investigating officer due to concerns of the injury levels of some involved.

‘The latest status update is that all are stable in hospital. There was excellent work in rescuing those involved by the fire and medical teams on scene, and we then spent several hours investigating the scene and then clearing the crash site. I would appeal to any person that witnessed the collision who has not yet come forward to make contact with us at police headquarters on 631212.’

The driver of a red Honda Accord that failed to stop for police is being hunted by officers.

The car, registration JMN-612-C, was driven towards the south of the island.

The police, who released information for the first time about the incident this morning, were no more specific with the geography.

They believe the car might have been stolen and are asking anyone with any more information to contact them.

Thursday, August 28

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

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

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

• Fitsteps at Onchan Community hall, 7.30pm. Booking is required via text or call 456056.

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

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

Friday, August 29

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

• Modern Dance, The Dance Factory, Onchan Park, 5.45pm. Also Thursday at 4.30pm. Tap jnr, 6.45pm. Also tap adv at 7.30pm. Also Beginners tap, Tuesday at 4.30pm.

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

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

Saturday, August 30

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

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

• Irish dance mixed, 3pm. Also prim/int on Monday at 4.30pm and Tuesday at 6.15pm. Beginners on Tuesday at 5.15pm. Stage snr 4pm. Also stage int at 5pm, The Dance Factory, Onchan Park.

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

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

Sunday, August 31

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

Monday, September 1

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, September 2

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

• Linedancercise at John’s football clubhouse, 7.30pm-9pm, call 467285.

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

Wednesday, September 3

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

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

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

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

• Ballroom dancing, Villa Marina, Douglas, 7.30pm. Call 623414.

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

Thursday, August 28

• 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 29

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

• Garage Sale at the back of Crossroads Charity Shop, Victoria Street, Douglas, 10am-4pm.

• 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.

• The Link - interesting talks and a buffet supper, Onchan Baptist Church. Call 623415.

Saturday, August 30

• 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.

• New Book Launch by Manx Footpaths Conservation Group at 11am in Lexicon Book shop, Douglas.

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

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

Sunday, August 31

• Youth Arts Centre Open Day, 1pm-4pm, Kensington Road, Douglas. Call Fiona on 437339 for more information.

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

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

Monday, September 1

• 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.

• MS Society coffee morning, Cherry Orchard, Port Erin, 1.30pm.

• Afternoon tea dance, 2pm-4pm, Manx Legion Club, Douglas.

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

Tuesday, September 2

• 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.

• Whist for Hospice, Michael Methodist Church, 7.30pm, £2.

Wednesday, September 3

• MS Society coffee morning, Harbour Lights, St Paul’s Square, Ramsey, 10.30am-noon.

• Independent Living Centre, Open Day, Ballakermeen Road, 9.30am-3.30pm. Call 642511.

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

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

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

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

• Bingo Quiz, Archibald Knox Onchan.

• Dalby Village Photo Exhibition, Dalby schoolrooms, 10am-5pm, throughout August.

• 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. Open daily from 10am-5pm during August and September.

• Open evening Sept 2nd 6.30pm - 8pm with refreshments. All Welcome. Photographic Exhibition ‘Eye of the Beholder’ by Dr Ruth Nicholls, Erin Arts Centre, Port Erin.

Thursday, August 28

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday, August 29

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday, August 30

• Young Bowlers Club. Tuition and tips (open to ages 8 to 12), 11am-noon, Surestrike Bowling Alley, Ramsey. To book call 812444.

• Theatrix Theatre Company Musical Theatre, Douglas, Saturday noon-2.30pm for ages 8-12. Also Saturday, babies Irish/mod, 9am; prep ballet/tap, 10am; babies ballet/tap, 11am. Monday, senior ballet, 4pm; senior tap, 5pm; senior jazz, 5.45pm; adult Irish, 6.30pm. Tuesday, community ballet/tap, 4pm; beginners Irish, 4.45pm; junior Irish, 5.30pm; adult tap, 6.15pm. Wednesday, grade 2 ballet/tap, 4pm; novice Irish, 5.30pm; adult ballet, 6.15pm.

Monday, September 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, September 2

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

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

• Tiddlers Group for parents, grandparents or carers, St Olave’s Church hall, Ramsey, 9.45am-11.30am, £1.50.

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

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

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

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

Wednesday, September 3

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

• Mini Club for parents or carers and their babies, toddlers and pre-school children at Anagh Coar School, Douglas, 9.30am or Braddan Church hall, 2pm. Call 675091.

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

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

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

• Mums and tots sessions for babies and pre-schoolers at Foxdale School. Dads, grandads, grandmas and carers welcome too, 2pm-3.15pm. £1.50 per family. Call Emma 801946.

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

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

Palace Cinema

• The Inbetweeners 2 (15). Nightly at 7.30pm.

• Lucy (15). Daily at 4pm and 7pm.

• House of Magic (U). Daily at 2pm.

• Guardians of the Galaxy 3D (12A). Daily at 4pm.

• Planes 2 (U). Daily at 2pm.

Broadway Cinema

• If I Stay (12A). Nightly at 7.30pm, also Saturday-Tuesday at 4.30pm and Wednesday at 2.30pm.

• The Nut Job 2D (U) at 11.30am. In 3D at 2pm.

Thursday, August 28

• Manx Retirement Association stretch and flex at the NSC, Douglas, at 10am. Indoor bowls at the NSC, Douglas, 2pm.

• Manx Footpaths Conservation Group walk, Port St Mary, Kallow Point, 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, September 1

• 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.

Tuesday, September 2

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

• Manx Footpaths Conservation Group walk, Peel town hall, 10.10am.

• 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.

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

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

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

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

Wednesday, September 3

• MS Society coffee morning, Harbour Lights, St Paul’s Square, Ramsey, 10.30am.

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

• Onchan Pensioners Club, Morton Hall, Castletown, ladies club, 2pm-4pm.

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

• Jurby and District WI, Jurby parish hall, 7.15pm.

• St Mark’s WI, St Mark’s School room, 7.30pm. Call 818194.

Thursday, August 28

• 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 29

• 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 30

• 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 31

• 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, September 1

• 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.

• 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, September 2

• 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.

• 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, September 3

• 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.

Thursday, August 28

• Borderline at the Raven, Ballaugh.

• Ian Thompson at the Crosby.

• Barefoot Revolution at Jaks, Douglas.

• Shoh Slaynt with Rob Middleton at the Villa Arcade, Douglas, 8pm-10pm.

• 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 29

• Borderline at The Bay, Port Erin.

• Ian Thompson at the Queen’s, Douglas.

• AM Frequency at Jaks, Douglas.

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

• Karaoke at the Albert, Douglas, 9pm.

• Irish traditional music session at The Mitre, Ramsey, 9pm.

• Kiaull as Gaelg at the Albert, Port St Mary, 9pm.

• Open Mic Night at Café Laare, Douglas, 7pm-9.30pm.

Saturday, August 30

• Borderline at Bar Logo, Ramsey.

• Ian Thompson at the Rosemount, Douglas.

• Final Cut at Jaks, Douglas.

• Dancing in the streets - Manx motown mania! Royal Hall, Villa Marina, Douglas, 8pm.

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

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

• Karaoke at the Central Hotel, Ramsey.

Sunday, August 31

• Ian Thompson at the Jabberwocky, Douglas.

• Salvation Army Band, Villa Marina Gardens, Douglas, 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.

Monday, September 2

• Abbeylands Chapel present ‘The Regal Singers’ with Alan Wilcox at Abbeylands Chapel at 7.30pm. No admission charge or ticket required. All are most welcome.

• Castletown Silver Band concert in aid of IoM Anti-Cancer Association, 7.30pm, Methodist church.

• Douglas Town Band, Villa Marina Arcade, Douglas, 8pm.

Tuesday, September 2

• 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, September 3

• Karaoke at the British, Douglas.

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

A motorcyclist has died at the scene of a road traffic incident today on the Creg Ny Baa back road.

The motorcycle was the only vehicle involved.

Police received a report about 1pm of a motorcycle having been seen to have left the road on the Creg Ny Baa back road, near to the Creg Ny Baa pub. Emergency services attended, but the rider of the machine was pronounced dead at the scene.

Senior investigating officer Inspector Derek Flint said: ‘Whilst already dealing with another serious collision the emergency services attended this incident. We believe the rider to be a visitor, and we are in the process of informing his family.

‘If you were travelling on the Creg back road between 11.30am and 1pm today and saw a lone motorcycle travelling towards the pub, we would really like to speak to you at police headquarters to assist us in establishing what happened to this gentleman. You can call us on 631212.’

The final day of the Isle of Man Festival of Motorcycling takes place on Friday and the schedule is as follows:

9.30am Roads close

10.15am MGP Riders Reunion Parade

11.30am Full Factory Winnerswear Senior MGP (four laps)

Roads will open at 5pm, but will then close again between 6 and 9pm if required.

A promising musical theatre student has organised a show to help raise the £14,000 he needs so he can fund the last two years of his degree.

Joe Hillard, of Douglas, has just completed his first year of a three-year degree at the prestigious Arts Educational Schools in London.

But with annual course fees of £13,500 and government support for tuition fees capped at £6,500 the 19-year-old came up with the idea for a showcase of some of the island’s best musical talent to help fund the shortfall.

Joe, who hopes to perform in the West End, said: ‘ArtsEd is the school I have always wanted to go to and is currently regarded as the best drama school in Europe for musical theatre and I am one of only 50 students accepted in my year out of over 2,000 auditionees.

‘This is an incredible opportunity and it would be devastating that I should not be able to continue and finish my course due to financial difficulty.’

Yesterday (Wednesday) was the first evening of his show ‘A Night At the Musicals’. It continues at Ballakermeen High School’s Studio Theatre tonight and tomorrow.

As well as Joe the cast includes well-known faces in the island including Laura Pigott, Beth Magee, Dean Callow and Sarah Holland.

The finale of each half is being performed by youngsters aged five to 15 who enjoyed a two-day singing and dancing workshop led by Joe this week.

‘This show is packed full of songs from the shows, from classic favourites like Les Miserables and Cabaret to new award winning shows like The Book of Mormon, Disney’s Newsies and Once,’ he said.

There will also be a raffle on Friday night.

Joe, a former Ballakermeen student, has performed in over 12 musicals at the Gaiety Theatre over eight years alongside many charity events.

He played Link in the Manx Operatic Society’s production of Hairspray, the first amateur performance of the musical since it was performed in the West End, and he played the lead role of Joe Casey in Inspiration Theatre Company’s production of Our House.

He released a CD to raise money for charity and in 2012 was awarded Young Actor of Mann and the Heroes in the Community Award for ‘Dedication to the Arts’.

He said his ideal role would be Elder Price in The Book of Mormon: ‘I saw the show last year and it’s the best show and one of the best musical theatre male roles I’ve ever seen.’

Tickets cost £10 and are available from Ballakermeen foyer or contact Joe on 330681 or joe-hillard@hotmail.com