The Queen’s Hotel, in Douglas has raised £1,181.42 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.
More than £800 was raised at a New Year’s Eve party.
The following day one of the members of staff, Radi Veselinov, took part in the Douglas dip, raising £360. Kim Makin and Angie Aire of the charity’s island group are pictured with Radi (left) and Marco Babbo of the pub.
Government minister Laurence Skelly has spoken of his hopes for ‘social investing’ in the island after he was invited to a high-profile gathering in Downing Street.
Social investment is finance that generates social as well as economic returns.
Mr Skelly, who is in the hot seat at the Department of Economic Development is keen to promote awareness of the phenomenon following his trip to London.
In an exclusive interview with Business News he said it was ‘fantastic recognition’ for the island to be represented at the event at number 11 Downing Street, the official base of the UK Chancellor 0f the Exchequer George Osborne.
He met senior UK government member Francis Maude MP, the Cabinet office minister, and VIPs including Dragons Den star and top businesswoman Deborah Meaden.
Mr Skelly said: ‘Social impact investment or social finance is financing that will not only give an economic return but also a social benefit as well. It’s something I have been following for some time [including from when] I used to live in America.
‘The big money, Bill Gates, the Bransons and so forth, have been giving to charities for many, many years and they have set up foundations to ensure that when they do invest there is a true social impact.
‘That has been happening for about 1o years and now it is converging into mainstream investing.
‘I was invited to 11 Downing Street by George Osborne and it was on the back of a visit that we had in the Isle of Man from the UK Business Angels Association CEO Jenny Tooth.
‘She had heard that the island was very open and very transparent and had not long ago signed up to FATCA.’
The island also has its own business angels network.
Of his meeting with Francis Maude he said: ‘Both he and I were very keen to see how we can work together to attract this type of business to the Isle of Man.’
He said the assembled invitees included city investors and people from the academic world and indeed he said he has now already forged links with Cambridge University’s business ‘incubator’ in terms of biomed.
He said Deborah Meaden was a featured speaker ‘and I thought it was interesting listening to her. The comment she said is that investors are already looking for an economic return for obvious reasons. However she said now the awareness is: ‘‘what good am I going to do with that imvestment?’’ The social responsibility is now growing and evolving into quite a significvant movement.
‘So the awareness is definitely growing.’
Mr Skelly said another speaker who grabbed his attention at the event was one of the original investors into F.C. United of Manchester.
He was one of a group of ‘working class northern lads’ who invested in their own football club owned and operated by the fans after being opposed to American businessman Malcolm Glazer’s takeover of Manchester United.
Mr Skelly said: ‘From our point of view as a government, we like all governments, have a social need and when we are considering what we do in terms of our investment, we need to understand how we can use this particular vehicle and this particular movement to try and solve some of our social issues to become sustainable for the future.’
Mr Skelly told how FATCA had opened up new links with America and in particular, a place called Foster City on the edge of Silicon Valley in California.
‘We are hoping that political and business leaders [from Foster City] will visit the Isle of Man this year to investigate opportunities, not just in social finance. They are interested in clean tech, IT and life science which is the bio tech area.
‘We are hoping that through FATCA this will open up new opportunities for the Isle of Man.’
Mr Skelly said he agreed with Deborah Meaden that social investing will be a force for the future.
He said: ‘The young entrepreneurs of today and tomorrow need to look at the social issues and see how they can use social impact investments.’ The minister agreed it could be seen as ‘investing with a heart.’
He said: ‘The island per capita is always recognised in terms of our level of giving when it comes to charitable and social aims. But wouldn’t it be great if that money was given and proven to be integrated into a successful business plan.
‘You give and get some financial return as well.’
Mr Skelly talked of a ‘new breed of investors emerging that want to see a social benefit as well as an economic return.’
Health chiefs say they have no evidence that 120 nurses are planning to leave the Manx NHS.
The claim was made in the House of Keys by Brenda Cannell (Douglas East), who asked Health and Social Care Minister Howard Quayle: ‘Is there any truth in the rumour I am hearing from hospital staff that there are 120 nurses who are planning to go?’
Mr Quayle replied this was news to him. He said: ‘Obviously, members of staff have concerns over the pension reforms and there will be various comments. I have not heard of 120 nurses handing in their notice.’
In a statement, his department confirmed that ‘to the best of its knowledge, this is not the case’.
Mr Quayle denied in the Keys there had been a ‘mass exodus’ of consultants. He confirmed seven had handed in their notice in recent months, one due to ill health and two who were 64 and 65.
Parishioners and other interested parties are being invited to suggest other uses for All Saints Church at Lonan.
The church is currently closed after serious defects in the wiring system meant it could not be insured for public use.
In an open letter, Biship Robert Paterson has asked for suggestions about how the building could be used in the future and outlined the decision-making process.
However, he has stressed that no decision has yet been taken and all proposals are currently open to discussion following the Church Commissioners’ review on the future of the church.
‘Some people have written to us objecting to something that is merely a basis for discussion at this stage,’ he said.
‘Sometimes in these circumstances, people read into documents more than is there.’
He said the proposal to close the church was merely a basis for discussion and was by no means a done deal.
‘Consideration of the future of All Saints’ Church is at an exploratory stage,’ he said.
‘No-one would wish it to be given a future in the community more than the church commissioners but the cost of maintaining a building of that size in good condition with minimal regular support over the years cannot be over-estimated.
‘And this is one of 45 churches in the care of parishes across the diocese.’
Bishop Paterson said they had now decided to invite proposals for additional and alternative uses of the church.
‘If an additional use were to be found for the church, then it my be possible to continue regular acts of worship, but any additional users would have to bear the lion’s share of the cost of maintenance,’ he said.
However, if a completely different use were found for the building, he envisaged ownership of the church would pass to a community based body, such as a group of Friends of the Church and regular services at the church would end except on four agreed occasions per year. In addition, funerals could still take place for those who were to be buried in the churchyard. Weddings could take place subject to a special licence from the bishop but baptisms could no longer take place as there needs to be an active congregation at the church.
In the short term, Bishop Paterson said it was proposed the remaining church funds be used to repair the wiring system as a matter of priority and the building would remain closed until it was safe.
At the same time, he said he was inviting serious proposals for other uses for the church, along with an outline business case. This could involve additional uses or alternative uses to worship.
‘Proposals should be realistic rather than simply aspirational,’ he said.
Deadline for suggestions is March 16, to M Barwood, 4 Oak Road, Peel.
A £20 million project to create a boutique hotel and residential development on the site of the former Castletown Golf Links Hotel is in the works.
A London agency has won a competition to design the developments, which will stand on the site of the old hotel if given planning approval.
Since the hotel finally closed in 2007, the iconic building on Langness peninsula has been empty, and the plans will see the building demolished in favour of a new development.
In 2012 the site was bought for £2.5 million by Fort Island Developments Ltd, part of the Dandara Group.
Dandara’s efforts to create residential accomodation on the peninusla reached the high court last year, where the company sucessfully argued against a condition in the Southern Area Plan that any developments on Langness must relate to the golf course or hotel.
The ruling paved the way for the development of flats or apartments at Langness.
The London-based Metropolitan Workshop studio beat several other architects with their proposals for the site, and have been commissioned to progress their designs by the company.
No plans have been publically revealed but a planning application is expected to be lodged later this year.
In a statement, Dandara said that while there is demand in the community for redevlopment work to take place, it may only be financially viable if the plan includes some residential properties.
They said: ‘Initial consultation with interested parties, including Government departments, local residents and political representatives, has revealed a desire for the site to be redeveloped at an early opportunity.
‘The Area Plan for the South recognises that the site will only be redeveloped with a hotel if it is commercially viable to do so, and in order for that to be the case the hotel must be supported by residential development.’
They added that public consultation will take place in the near future.
They said: ‘London-based architects Metropolitan Workshop have been commissioned to work alongside other consultants and Dandara’s in-house team to progress the design of the scheme, and further consultation with interested parties will take place in due course.’
Emerging Nomads travel to Peel to take on Western Vikings in the Shimmin Wilson Manx Bowl on Saturday.
Nomads were on the wrong end of a big score last weekend but they do have some little green shoots of hope in the team and with a little more ball, they will improve.
In the forwards, Jake Corkish and John Ali have been useful acquisitions and they compensate for the presence of Orry Watterson in the team!
They struggle to get a settled side out and, like all second teams, have to flex to first team needs. Scrum-half George Callister has been snaffled by the first team already this season, while and Gerard Landels also returns to the first XV this week.
Western Vikings haven’t played since January 10 and will definitely be short on match fitness.
Vikings’ playmaker Sam Peel is leaving the island next month but it may just galvanise Vikings into action and spur them on to end his time here on a high.
The day’s Shimmin Wilson Manx Trophy game between Southern Nomads and Vagabonds B has been postponed with the latter unable to field a side.
Saturday’s fixtures
South Lancashire/Cheshire Division One
Douglas v Bowdon @ Port-e-Chee ko 2.15pm
South Lancashire/Cheshire Division Two
Trentham v Vagabonds @ Trentham
South Lancashire/Cheshire Division Three
Knutsford v Ramsey @ Knutsford ko 1.45pm
Women’s NC North 1/2 West
Vagabonds v Kendal @ Ballafletcher ko 12pm
Shimmin Wilson Manx Trophy ko 2.15pm
PDMS Southern Nomads P-P Vagabonds B
Shimmin Wilson Manx Bowl ko 2.15pm
Western Vikings v Emerging Nomads @ QEII
PwC Women’s Premier
Canaccord Genuity Vikings A put their unbeaten record on the line when they meet Crowe Morgan Valkyrs A at QEII on Saturday morning.
Kim Carney’s Vikings are a formidable side and will feel confident of claiming the win.
Opponents Valkyrs, who are also undefeated thus far this campaign, will be hoping to inflict a first defeat in many a season on Vikings but will need to be on very top form if they are to do so.
PwC Women’s Division One
Bacchas B will be hoping to maintain their unbeaten start to the season when they meet Celton Manx Castletown B.
Anne Harrison’s Bacchas have been in good form and are yet to concede a goal while scoring 16.
Castletown dropped their first point of the season to Saracens last week and will be hoping to return to winning ways in this one.
PwC Men’s Premier
A close game is in prospect when LJ Ramsey A meet Canaccord Genuity Vikings A at the Grammar School on Saturday afternoon.
Juan Kermeen’s northerners secured their first points of the season last week with victory over Bacchas B and will be aiming to add to their points tally here.
Neil Crowe’s Vikings have claimed victories in their last two matches and will feel confident of extending their winning run with success here.
PwC Men’s Division One
Harlequins A will try to extend their unbeaten start to the season when they meet Canaccord Genuity Vikings Colts in Saturday’s early fixture at Castle Rushen.
Clive Rees’s Harlequins have been impressive in their three victories and should prove to be difficult opposition for the Colts.
The Vikings youngsters, under the leadership of Ian Perry, are an impressive side and could hand Harlequins their first defeat.
Saturday’s fixtures
PwC Men’s Premier Division
Bacchas A v Saracens NSC 2.05pm
Gary Corkhill, Peter Foxton
LJ Ramsey A
v Canaccord Genuity Vikings A RGS 2.05pm
Mark Entwisle, Tim Leeming
Crowe Morgan V’kyrs A v Bacchas B QEII 2.05pm John Harrison, John Pearson
PwC Men’s Division One
Celton Manx Castletown A
v Crowe Morgan Valkyrs B CRHS 2.05pm
Unappointed Bacchas Colts
v Celton Manx Castletown B CRHS 12.35pm
Alex Cave Ian Duggua
Harlequins A
v Canaccord Genuity Vikings Colts CRHS 11.05am Nigel Birken Tim Leeming
LJ Ramsey Men’s B v Harlequins B RGS 3.35pm
Unappointed
Canaccord Genuity Vikings B
v Bacchas C QEII 3.35pm
Unappointed
PwC Women’s Premier Division
Bacchas A
v Crowe Morgan Valkyrs B NSC 11.05am
Jamie Brown James Harrison
LJ Ramsey A
v Celton Manx Castletown A RGS 12.35pm
Sandra Smith, unappointed
Crowe Morgan Valkyrs A
v Canaccord Genuity Vikings A QEII 12.35pm
Helen Cave John Harrison
PwC Women’s Division One
Bacchas B
v Celton Manx Castletown BCRHS 3.35pm
Lindsay Riordan, unappointed
Bacchas C
v Canaccord Genuity Vikings BNSC 12.35pm
Barry Powell, James Russell
Harlequins A v Harlequins BQEII 11.05am
Kirsty Bowley, Andrea Littlejohns
LJ Ramsey B
v Crowe Morgan Valkyrs CRGS 11.05am
Unappointed
Canaccord Genuity Vikings C
v SaracensKWC 12.35pm
Unappointed
Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK today described the planned closure of the Mount Murray Hotel as a ‘bombshell’ for the island.
Mr Bell said he had spoken at length with owner Albert Gubay since yesterday’s announcement along with the loss of 30 jobs.
And he revealed he has been in contact with a number of ‘potential investors.’
The hotel, including its leisure club, will close on Friday, February 6, with the loss of 30 jobs.
The golf club will remain open.
Mr Bell told Isle of Man Newspapers: ‘The decision to close the Mount Murray Hotel has come as a massive blow to all of us. It has provided a very important facility for the island for over 20 years and will be sorely missed.
‘The fire [in November 2013] of course was bad enough but losing the social and hospitality facilities will be a major blow for the business community in particular.
‘I have spoken to Mr Gubay at length and to his officers in the island to try and clarify exactly what is happening and I have a further meeting with them next week to see if there is any possible way of resurrecting part or all of the overall project.
‘I have also been putting out feelers to potential new investors who have shown an early interest in getting involved in rescuing the project.
‘It’s too early to say what that final outcome will be. It just came as a bombshell yesterday really and we are still responding to it really.’
Mr Bell was asked if the government might consider a similar rescue package to the one offered to the Sefton.
He replied: ‘I think this is a different matter. Mount Murray has lost pretty well all its residential accommodation. It would mean starting from scratch.
‘The Sefton position was really short term loans to assist their cash flow to keep the business operating.
‘But of course any new hotel, I think, still qualifies for potential government grants of up to 40 per cent and we will again have to consider all options for the future.’
Mr Bell was at the Villa Marina, Douglas, for annual Manx State of the Nation conference organised by the Alliance of Isle of Man Compliance Professionals.
With next month’s Budget coming up he said he was committed to maintining the current tax structure.
He told Isle of Man Newspapers it was ‘vitally important that with all the other changhes that we make at this time it would be a huge mistake to reduce or increase our taxation rates. The zero rate of corporate tax has been hugely beneficial and has generated several thousands jobs for the Isle of Man over the last few years and it would be foolish in the extreme to tinker with that at this point.
‘And likewise we have to be aware that our top rate of personal tax rate of 20 per cent is competitive with other jurisdictions such as the Channel Islands and Gibraltar and if we were to get out of line on that it could well be to our economic detriment as it would attract other potential investors to those competitive jurisdictions.’
Live music returns to Amber Bar in Douglas tomorrow (Saturday).
First up to appear this year and making their way to Douglas from the south of the island is rock and indie covers band Switch.
These boys originally formed back in 2007 and after a hiatus a couple of years ago, they’re back on the circuit.
Their line-up includes Neil Curphey on vocals, Colin Davidson and Matt Quine on guitars, Mal Atkinson on bass and Jonny Peacock on drums.
Now, whilst the bands’ gigging schedule wouldn’t be called prolific and they tend to play select dates rather than bombarding the scene every weekend (and that’s in no way a criticism), this means that their shows give off a feeling of being an event.
The band includes a set that swings from the likes of The Killers, Doves, The Stone Roses, Ash, Feeder, The Kaiser Chiefs, Pulp and Blur via Blondie and The Buzzcocks to INXS, Duran Duran, The Jam and The Sex Pistols, so there’s quite a mix in there.
If this sounds like your idea of a good night out then you can’t go far wrong in getting yourself along to see them.
The doors open at 8pm, it’s free entry and the band will hit the stage sometime after 9pm. Visit www.facebook.com/SwitchIOM to find out more.
Peel based singer-songwriter Alex Harris is a busy man. Having arrived on the island in October 2009 he’s been fairly prolific in both his solo and group guises, which have included his bands, Native and The Alex Harris Trio.
He even has time now and again to throw in a few covers gigs!
This weekend is no exception and sees him playing not one, but two shows on Saturday.
Firstly he’ll be appearing at The Carnival Live Lounge in Douglas for a lunchtime show between 1pm and 3pm.
This afternoon performance looks to be the first in a new schedule of free daytime acoustic gigs that the Douglas venue is putting on.
Later on that evening Alex moves further down the prom and makes an appearance at The Queen’s pub from 9.30pm onwards. See www.facebook.com/alexharrismusic for more.
Following their acoustic set at The Creek in Peel last weekend, Jaks in Douglas will play host to an acoustic set from 3 Million members Chris Honour and Gary Smith on Saturday night.
See www.facebook.com/3MillionIOM
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Steve Leach brings the latest rumblings, murmurings, news and views on forthcoming events in and around the island’s music scene. Help support the scene by emailing leachsteve@hotmail.com
The remaining two ties in the FA Cup feature an all-Division Two clash and a Ringham family affair.
The latter sees second division Onchan play host to defending champions St George’s at the Nivison Stadium. Geordies will be expected to comprehensively beat the Os and continue their quest for another trophy, but Onchan boss Tristan Ringham will be hoping his team can cause a few problems for a Saints side containing his brother Julian.
The other FA Cup tie sees two of the top five in JCK Division Two go head-to-head at the Station Fields where Colby host Pulrose. Just one place and two points separate the two - in Colby’s favour - so a tight game could be in prospect on Saturday.
The form book suggests a win for Pully but the two sides have met twice in recent weeks, playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw last month and Colby edging a 2-1 victory just last weekend so this one could go either way.
Away from the magic of the cup, there are four games taking place across the Canada Life Premier League and JCK Division Two. In the top flight a good match could be in store at Croit Lowey where Rushen United take on a Laxey side who have impressed against St George’s and Peel in recent weeks, while a potentially crucial relegation battle sees Ayre take on Gymns.
In the second division, Foxdale host Douglas Royal while title hopefuls RYCOB host Governor’s Athletic.
Forty-four years ago Malew beat Michael United 26-0 in the FA Cup.
The pair meet again on Saturday in the Paddy Power-sponsored competition with Division Two outfit dreaming of a cup-set if not a record scoreline.
Michael currently sit bottom of the Canada Life Premier League, but have already avoided a potential Cup banana skin in the prelim round when they made surprisingly short work of second tier promotion contenders Douglas Athletic 5-0.
Malew sit several rungs below Athletic in the Division Two standings, but only narrowly lost to them at the weekend. Andy Glover and Dean Kinley grabbed the goals in that game and recent prolific form will pose problems for the western hosts who have leaked 88 goals in 19 league matches.
Other Division Two sides hoping to pull off a shock will be Braddan and Marown.
The Swans host Railway Cup semi-finalists Ramsey at Victoria Road while Marown make the trip to nearby Blackberry Lane and DHSOB.
Will Smith’s precocious side won in the Woods Cup last week, but will do well to repeat the feat against a Ballacloan side that has impressed this season.
The Victoria Road pitch will be a bit of leveller, but you’d still expect the top-flight class of Ramsey to see them through.
Marown will also face a stern test against an Old Boys side that has made the final of the last two major knock-out competitions they have contested.
Castletown were due to take on Premier League title contenders Peel at the Stadium, but unfortunately the hosts are unable to field a team therefore Peel have been awarded the win.
The round’s two all-Premier League affairs between Union Mills and St Mary’s and Corinthians and St John’s look tight on paper.
Saints will be slight favourites to advance from their tie, but the other game looks too close to call.
There will be disrution for motorists this weekend when the Ramsey to Laxey coast road closes to enable new railway lines to be installed.
The road will be closed from 8am on Saturday until 6pm on Sunday. In the event of bad weather the works will take place the following weekend.
The £1.2m project to carry out repairs and refurbishment on the 52-metre long bridge at Ballure began in November. Around 75 per cent of steelwork repairs have been completed.
New foundations have been laid for the tracks that will cross the main road at Ballure.
Buses will be diverted via the Mountain Road. Additional services will go between Glen Mona from Douglas.
Buses in Andreas, Regaby and St Jude’s will be disrupted by a rally on Saturday.
The Federation of Manx Historic Vehicle Clubs has hit out at the car tax increases proposed by Department of Infrastructure (DoI) Minister, Phil Gawne and approved by Tynwald.
As we previously reported, the DoI has received Tynwald approval to increase vehicle excise duty in the Isle of Man resulting in an overall increase in revenue of 10 per cent on cars and 4 per cent on motorcycles, generating an additional £800,000.
Chairman of the Federation, Geof Staples, said: ‘We understand the pressures on government in relation to income but it is grossly unfair to continually apply increases that are well above inflation whilst pleading insufficient revenue to maintain the roads.
‘Clearly government is generating other high levels of income from motorists, which should be used to the benefit of road users.
‘The Federation, as the only general motoring organisation on the island is committed to opposing the unreasonable treatment of all local motorists and this Order, supported by the majority of Tynwald, is an example of such treatment.’
Federation secretary Steve Woodward said: ‘The overall increase in Vehicle Excise Duty made under the Order averages 10 per cent at a time when the annual rate of inflation is two per cent. The duty for some categories of vehicle, however, has increased by over 20 per cent.
‘We live on a largely rural island and travel to work is not a luxury to be highly taxed, but a necessity. Local motorists now face levels of duty around 25 per cent more than comparable vehicles in the UK, with some categories of vehicle paying over double the equivalent UK rate.
‘Mr Gawne highlights income vehicle duty at £12.5 million, compared to highway maintenance costs of £16 million but he ignores other government income generated from motorists.
‘Fuel duty is around 60p per litre, VAT is payable on fuel and on all vehicle running costs and servicing.
‘It follows that any argument that only car tax should pay for all highway maintenance is unfair.’
The Manx community has been left ‘bruised’ by extra charges and taxes that are hitting those on lower incomes hardest.
Policy and Reform Minister Chris Robertshaw told the House of Keys that government recognised the island had to move back towards a ‘sense of recognisable fairness’ – after he revealed figures showing, on average, one in four households, the island’s poorest, don’t have enough income to cover their cost of living.
Those figures show that the bottom quarter of households in terms of income have an average weekly expenditure of £354 per week – but their disposable income, after income tax and National Insurance, is just £341 per week, a shortfall of £13 a week.
And those figures, collated for a 2013 household income and expenditure survey, do not take into account the raft of new charges, fees and taxes introduced last year.
Chris Thomas MHK (Douglas West) who asked the question in the Keys which brought this to light said: ‘Government needs to change aspects of its tax policy.
‘It cannot be right to take so much from the poorest through indirect taxes, charges and fees.
‘The cost of living is too high for many people. Growth isn’t trickling down.’
In the Keys, Mr Thomas asked the Cabinet Office to compile figures for disposable income that take into account the ‘drip, drip, drip’ of new fees and charges, indirect taxes and rate rises.
Mr Robertshaw said the entire Council of Ministers was ‘extremely sensitive’ to the issues, having ‘fought our way through a three-year period of intense difficulty trying to get back to balance which has left our community in many respects bruised’.
‘There is a tremendous amount of work going on in CoMin, in Treasury and in my office to ensure we move back towards a sense of recognisable fairness in our community,’ he added.
The figures show that the highest income quartile have £250 a week ‘free’ money above their costs per week, the third quartile have a £100 spare a week and the second to lowest income group just about break even, having £6 a week more in disposable income than their expenditure.
Lib Van leader Kate Beecroft (Douglas South) asked the Minister whether he still considered it fair to have taxcappers paying ‘considerably less’ as a percentage in tax than those at the bottom end ‘who are actually losing out on his own figures’.
Mr Robertshaw replied: ‘I can confirm this is a matter of concern for all the Council of Ministers who are very aware of it. It is often brought up in Council.
‘It’s not for me to speak on behalf of the Treasury Minister but we are all involved in this issue and policies will emerge as time progresses.’
A question asked by Mr Thomas in Tynwald last week revealed that seven eighths of income tax is paid by the 32,000 paying tax at the 20 per cent band, with an effective rate of just over 11 per cent, while tax cappers – whose average annual income would appear to be more than £3m – pay tax at an effective rate of less than 4 per cent.
The Eurocars Manx Rally Championship kicks off in January for the first time in a number of years on Saturday with the IMGold Chris Kelly Memorial Rally.
The rally, based at Jurby airfield, will consist of eight stages giving the 45 crews entered 85 miles of fast, closed roads action.
The first two stages, The Cronk, take in the ultra-fast Orrisdale section and Knocksharry, which will use the Staveey loop.
Both stages are the same as Rally Isle of Man.
After a short service they will be ran again before the action moves on to the afternoon stages of St Jude’s and Druidale, again both will be ran twice.
Last year’s winner and current Manx Rally Champion Arron Newby is missing this event which opens the door for a number of potential victors.
Nigel Cannell anddaughter Jade go at one and will no doubt be looking to add to their local win tally.
However, they will be challenged from the start with former trials ace Steve Colley and AndrewCowley at two. The latter pair will be looking to make amends after crashing out of the final rally of 2014 while leading.
Colley certainly showed his pace last year but can he convert that into consistency?
Martyn Jones has Rob Fagg in the hot seat for this one. As fast and spectacular as Jones is the fast open stages may not suit the little Nova this time out.
Timmy Collins also has his daughter Cliona alongside him.
Tim started to produce some notable drives last year and undoubtedly has a car that could challenge for a top-three finish.
Stu Bainborough and Kex Walker at nine and 11 respectively will be knocking on the door and will no doubt pick up and pieces should any of the front runners fall by the wayside.
The entry is supported by a very strong UK contingent such is the popularity of Manx rallying and the quality of event Manx Autosport promote.
The UK charge is headed by Damian Cole in an Escort at three, while regular Manx visitor John Cope goes in his WRC Impreza at four just ahead of and Simon Chapman in the potent Proton Millington at five.
Andy Bird at eight brings his Chevette back for another crack at the Manx lanes and either of the above have the pedigree to produce a very good result on the day.
Marshals and timekeepers are still required. If you can spare a few hours the organisers would love to hear from you. Signing on will take place on Friday evening from 6pm at Eurocars, Peel Road.
The actions gets under way at 9.20am with the winner expected to be crowned just after 3pm.
A fire in Onchan yesterday (Thursday) evening was caused by a hair dryer which restarted after cooling down.
The dryer had been in use in the morning but had cut out due to overheating.
The occupier of the house in Royal Avenue placed the dryer on the floor without switching it off by the appliance or by the wall socket and then left for work.
Fire investigators say, once it had cooled, the dryer restarted and after a while ignited a small pile of clothing nearby.
This smouldered and burned through the carpet and floorboards to ignite the wooden floor joists.
It has been established that the fire developed throughout the day unnoticed until the occupier returned from work to find the kitchen full of thick black smoke.
After retrieving the family pet, she immediately alerted the emergency services and two pumping appliances from Douglas Fire Station were called to the scene at 4.45pm.
Firefighters quickly established the fire was not in the kitchen but was seated in the ceiling between the ground and first floor.
Operations were made difficult due to the smoke level flooding the house throughout but crews removed floorboards to extinguish the fire which was moving along the joists.
Further crews helped ventilate the house and remove part of the downstairs ceiling.
A spokesman for the fire service said: ‘The incident highlights the need for care to be taken when using electrical items and the importance of ensuring all appliances of this nature are fully turned off when not in use.’
The Steam Packet is warning passengers of possible dispruption to tomorrow’s (Saturday) sailings.
A statement released by the firm this lunchtime states that the latest weather forecast indicates probable disruption or cancellation to the 8am Douglas to Birkenhead sailing and return service at 2pm.
A final decision will be made by 6.30am tomorrow (Saturday).
This evening’s (Friday) return service to Heysham and Sunday’s return service to Birkenhead are expected to run as scheduled.
For further sailing information, visit www.steam-packet.com/en/LatestSailings
The latest Isle of Man Newspapers’ Team of the Week features yet another two debutants, despite now being well into the second half of the season.
Impressive defensive displays were the order of the day in the Canada Life Premier League at the weekend, and the back five in the latest hypothetical XI shipped just three goals between them.
Donning the TotW goalkeeping gloves for the second time this season was veteran Union Mills shot-stopper Christian Cellamare who energed the hero from his side’s match at Corinthians.
The goalkeeper was in inspired form as he produced several brilliant saves to deny his former side and ensured the Millers claimed what could be a vital point in their battle against relegation in their 1-1 draw at Ballafletcher.
In front of him is a four-man defence, one of which makes his Team of the Week debut. The person in question is Rushen United’s Dale Corrin who delivered a fine performance at the back for the Spaniards during a rare goalless draw with Ramsey.
As such, one of his opposite number - Robbie Collister - also earns a TotW call-up and is joined in defence by St John’s Nick Leung and Laxey’s Jonny Shields.
Collister was able to help Ramsey blunt Rushen’s dangerous attack, while Leung starred as the Saints defeated struggling Michael United 3-1 and Shields put in a man-of-the-match performance against title challengers Peel at Glen Road.
Two more players from the latter match are also included in the latest selection, the first being Daniel Bell who marked his first appearance since injury with a fine performance in midfield for Peel, setting up the westerners’ second half winner.
Joining him in the midfield quartet are two free-scoring talents from champions St George’s, Frank Jones and Conor Doyle, as well as St Mary’s star Karl Clark in a unfamiliar advanced role.
The latter shone in a rare outing in midfield as his side came from behind to defeat Ayre United 5-2, while captain Jones and team-mate Doyle both helped themselves to braces as Geordies thumped Gymns 6-0. As a result, Clark and Doyle earned their sixth TotW call-ups of the season already,
Leading the line for the latest Team of the Week are two players who scored important goals for their respective sides on Saturday.
Stephen Glover was the star of the show as St John’s got the better of Michael Utd at Mullen-e-Cloie, his decisive double helping them claim a 3-1 victory.
Webster was the match winner for Peel as his 69th minute strike against his former club was enough to earn the westerners three vital points in their quest to overhaul St George’s for the league title.
Claiming the refereeing honours this week is Alan Cowin who impressed in the middle during the St John’s v Michael game and thus earns his first Team of the Week appearance this season.
Team of the Week
Goalkeeper
Christian Cellamare (Union Mills) TotW apps: 2
Defence
Nick Leung (St John’s) TotW apps: 4
Dale Corrin (Rushen Utd) TotW apps: 1
Jonny Shields (Laxey) TotW apps: 2
Robbie Collister (Ramsey) TotW apps: 2
Midfield
Frank Jones (St George’s) TotW apps: 5
Karkl Clark (St Mary’s) TotW apps: 6
Conor Doyle (St George’s) TotW apps: 6
Daniel Bell (Peel) TotW apps: 1
Attack
Stephen Glover (St John’s) TotW apps: 2
Ashley Webster (Peel) TotW apps: 3
Referee
Alan Cowin (St John’s v Michael) RotW apps: 1
Mark Cavendish is to compete in South Africa for the first time when he participates in the Race Cape Town Cycle Tour in March.
The Etixx-Quick-Step star will be joined by his main leadout man Mark Renshaw for the event which takes place on Sunday, March 9.
The Cycle Tour attracts 35,000 cyclists to Cape Town every year and, over the past 36 years, has emerged as one of the greatest cycling events in the world, with everyone from rank amateurs to Hollywood celebrities and top pro riders taking part.
The headquarters for Cavendish and Renshaw will be the picturesque wine estate of Klein Constantia, owned by team owner Zdenek Bakala. Starting this year, Klein Constantia will be a jersey sponsor for team Etixx-Quick-Step.
As they did in 2014, Klein Constantia and Etixx-Quick-Step will host a special function and auction, and a short bike ride to support Francois Pienaar’s Make a Difference charity on the Friday prior to the race.
Cav and five-time Tour de France winner Eddy Merckx, the undisputed greatest pro cyclist of all-time, will be guests of honour at the event.
‘I’ve never been to South Africa before,’ comments the Manx Missile. ‘I’ve heard great things about the Cycle Tour and I’m excited about the trip. I’ve heard from a few riders who have been there before that it’s a lovely place, and a beautiful event to race.
‘To ride with 35,000 people, that’s not something I’ve ever done in a bike race before. But I’m looking forward to it. Klein Costantia is a new sponsor of the team this year, and I want to do them and Mr Bakala proud by going and showing my support.
‘Also, I am happy to be associated with the charity actions they will sponsor. I’m really looking forward to visiting South Africa for the first time and taking part in a well-organised event that comes with a history of goodwill and charity attached to it.’
Cav will next be in action when he competes in the Dubai Tour from February 4-7.
TT fans’ favourite Guy Martin is getting back in the saddle for an Indian adventure in his latest TV documentary.
The motorcycle racer, who has become a TV personality, in recent years, will star in Channel 4’s two-part documentary Our Guy In India, which starts this weekend.
The show follows Guy’s 1,000-mile trip across India to compete in a race called Rider Mania – the world’s largest gathering of Royal Enfield motorbikes.
Other scenes show Guy riding alongside a 50-strong biker gang, visiting Asia’s biggest junk yard and climbing to the top of India’s tallest building, the 833ft Imperial skyscraper in Mumbai.
A spokesperson for Channel 4 said the show would see the star ‘completely out of his comfort zone’.
He added: ‘Guy Martin has a love for adventure and they don’t come much bigger than an epic 1,000-mile trip across India, culminating in one of the world’s maddest bike races.
‘Rider Mania is the largest gatheringof Royal Enfield motorbikes on the planet. Guy wants to ride there and win it at the end of his two-week trip.
‘Along the way, Guy with his love of tea, lorry repairs, motorbikes and daredevil risk taking, introduces us to a side of modern India rarely seen before. Only Guy would want to visit the largest lorry repair yard in Asia.’
blessing
Elsewhere in the programme Guy buys a classic Royal Enfield motorcycle at a Delhi market that came with a traditional Hindu blessing.
Famed for his love of tea, Guy also gets the chance to enjoy a brew at a historic 250-year-old tea plantation.
Our Guy In India comes after he starred in his well-received programme Speed.
Speed saw Guy attempt to break the speed record for various vehicles, including a hovercraft.
The racer, who has never actually won a TT race, is much more famous than his Mountain Circuit rivals because of his TT career.
He has featured in a number of popular TV programmes, including Guy Martin’s Passion For Life, Guy Martin’s Spitfire and The Boat That Guy Built.
His book, Guy Martin: My Autobiography also proved a popular Christmas stocking filler after it made the top 10 book sales in the UK during the festive period, with more than 30,000 copies sld.
The first part of Our Guy In India will be shown on Channel 4 on Sunday at 9pm.