LEAGUE leaders Ramsey are under pressure in the Standard Bank Premiership.

Last Saturday they lost their first match of the season while title contenders Crosby and Valkyres both won.

These sides are now just two points behind the top club and each has a game in hand meaning it is vital that the northern team win their next fixture, otherwise the chasing pack could draw level.

That game goes ahead on Sunday at King William’s College and is a match fraught with danger for Ollie Webster’s side.

The Ramsey skipper returns from island hockey duty and his fans claim his influence will be significant. However, in 2011 he had problems against the Town.

Webster played against them in four league and cup clashes. He scored a total of 52 runs (average 13) and took five wickets at 16 each. Sunday will be a big challenge for him.

Town are riding high after a splendid win over Crosby.

Their two defeats at the start of the season are now forgotten and on their home pitch they take some beating. But there is a big worry. Last season they played Ramsey in three Premiership and two Cain league fixtures – and they did not win one of them.

Valkyres’ fine win over Cronkbourne has given them new confidence. The batting clicked again with Andy Stokes and Tom Reader making plenty of runs. Then the bowlers performed well to dismiss their opponents for 110.

Now they face champions St John’s in Douglas. The Saints have made a poor start to the year and will be anxious to climb up the table. With a full strength line-up they must be in with a good chance.

The excellent Tromode grass track is likely to be soft after all the rain and that spells danger for batsmen. It will also benefit the seamers and Akkie Van Den Berg will relish such conditions.

Crosby will be hoping to repeat their victory over Ramsey when Cronkbourne come to Marown. They ran up a good score while the bowling and fielding were excellent. Harry Rothwell had a five-wicket haul and the Crosby catching, particularly by Dave Picken, was excellent.

Cronkbourne are likely to have Max Stokoe back from England for his first local game of the year. He could be the difference between the two teams and this encounter could be close.

CRICKET RESULTS

Standard Bank Forrester Division Two

Castletown B v Peel C and Ronaldsway v Union Mills: Games abandoned (rain) – one point to each side.

Standard Bank Forrester Division Three

Crosby C 117 for 7 (Chris Hermann 22, Drew Buxton 15 : Tom Salmon 3-12, Karl Gartland 2-15); Finch Hill B 118 for 6 (Louis Thornton 53, Ben Bennett 14: Kieron Cawte 2-14, Sam Cubbon 1-16, Sam Bowers 1-25). Finch Hill won by four wickets.

CRICKET FIXTURES DIARY

Thursday, May 17

Standard Bank Forrester Division One (6.30pm)

Celton Manx Castletown A v Ramsey A

Habib Bank Valkyres A v Cronkbourne A

Standard Bank Forrester Division Two (6.30pm)

Black Grace Cowley St John’s B

v Colas Finch Hill B

--------

Saturday, May 19

Manx Youth Games

Cricket tournament at Tromode

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Sunday, May 20

Standard Bank Premiership (1pm)

Fairbairn Crosby v Cronkbourne

Celton Manx Castletown v Ramsey

Habib Bank Valkyres

v Black Grace Cowley St John’s

--------

Monday, May 21

Standard Bank Forrester Division Two (6.30pm)

Celton Manx Castletown B v Ronaldsway

White House Peel B v Cronkbourne B

Habib Valkyres B v Ramsey B

Standard Bank Forrester Division Three (6.30pm)

Fairbairn Crosby C v Colas Finch Hill A

--------

Tuesday, May 22

Standard Bank Forrester Division Three (6.30pm)

Grasshoppers v Celton Manx Castletown C

White House Peel C v Black Grace Cowley St John’s B

--------

Wednesday, May 23

Standard Bank Forrester Division Two (6.30pm)

Fairbairn Crosby B v Ronaldsway

Celton Manx Castletown B v Union Mills

--------

Thursday, May 24

Standard Bank Forrester Division One (6.30pm)

Celton Manx Castletown A

v Habib Bank Valkyres A

Cronkbourne A v Ramsey A

Standard Bank Forrester Division Three (6.30pm)

Grasshoppers v Colas Finch Hill B

White House Peel C v Celton Manx Castletown C

PEEL are the last team standing in the way of St George’s achieving an historic Grand Slam when the two sides go head-to-head in the final of the BCS Vinyl-sponsored Hospital Cup at the Bowl on Sunday afternoon.

In one of the final senior matches of the men’s football season, the Saints are just one game away from a thoroughly impressive clean sweep of trophies, having already collected the Railway Cup, FA Cup and the Premier League.

The westerners, though, will be going all out to prevent Chris Bass Sr’s men from completing the Grand Slam, something which the Douglas Road side are one of only four clubs to have achieved in the history of Manx football and the only one to have done it twice.

Both sides faced tough battles to book their places in the final, Geordies having to overcome the stubborn resistance of Ramsey last Sunday - the only side to have taken any points off the league champions this season - while Peel needed extra-time to get the better of St John’s 2-0 on Tuesday evening.

The teams faced each other on the opening day of the season in a close contest at Glencrutchery Road, with Geordies eventually emerging 2-1 winners, while the reverse fixture saw a much more comfortable victory for the Saints when they triumphed 5-1 at Douglas Road so Bass Sr will be hoping for more of the same.

As well as dispatching Ramsey in the semi-final, Geordies have also knocked out Marown, Corinthians and Rushen United in the previous rounds so have not had the easiest of routes to the final.

Peel have undergone something of a season of transition under player-manager Rob Cottier but improved as the campaign wore on and they will go into the final hoping to cause an upset.

The westerners certainly have pedigree when it comes to this cup competition, having won in no fewer than 17 times – most recently in 2009-10 - as well a finishing runners-up 13 occasions.

Their journey to Sunday’s clash with St George’s has seen them progress at the expense of Division Two champions Union Mills 7-2 and DHSOB via a penalty shoot-out so they have certainly earned their place in the final.

Peel certainly have the talent within their squad to cause St George’s plenty of problems on their day, including the likes of Danny Bell and Lee Gale who have both enjoyed excellent seasons.

However, with Geordies striker and newly-crowned Golden Boot winner Ciaran McNulty, along with players such as Chris Bass Jr, in red hot form at the moment, all the signs point to the Saints emerging triumphant to complete a memorable Grand Slam.

Kick-off is at 3pm on Sunday at the Bowl.

TWO of the Manx Amateur Boxing Club’s most promising youngsters lined up to box on Lancaster Boxing Acadmey’s dinner show at Morecambe Football Club’s Globe Stadium last week.

With two of the the travelling contingent’s bouts cancelled at the last minute because of injury it was left to Mathew Rennie and Jamie Devine to fly the flag. Both have had a busy season with the former fighting his seventh bout this term and Devine his eighth.

Rennie was in a rematch against Joe Shaw of Chorley ABC. These two had fought a close bout on the Manx club’s show at the Masonic Hall in March. Shaw started this one on the front foot but Rennie was not budging and stood his ground meeting Shaw in the centre of the ring. The first round was a close affair with Shaw throwing more punches but with Rennie landing the more accurate and telling right hands to the head.

Shaw started the second well landing quick two-punch combinations only for Rennie to finish the round off on top in a high-tempo bout. The final round would decide the bout and both boxers were determined to get the upper hand and both swapped punches. In another nip-and-tuck round it was hard to separate the two but the judges awarded the fight to Shaw on a split decision.

Devine was also up against a Chorley ABC boxer in the shape of Tom Scott. Scott looked to take the centre of the ring in the first round and Devine was happy to box the early stages of this junior contest at long range. Devine soon found his range and counter-punched over Scott’s jab with straight right hands.

Scott was soon backed up to the ropes where he shipped some heavy body punches. In the second round Devine was now the aggressor and Scott moved around the ring to avoid the Manx boxer’s attacks.

Devine used his jab to manoeuvre Scott to the ropes where the latter took a meaty left hook to the ribs before trying to move along the ropes to avoid more punishment.

Devine was not going to let his man off the hook and found the target again with a shuddering left hook to the ribs. Scott was forced to take a knee and the referee administered a standing-eight count.

The Manx boxer tried to finish the job but was unable to press home his advantage as Scott showed grit to get through the final round where he had some success of his own as he staged a late rally. This, however, proved too little too late and Devine was given the unanimous decision.

Both boxers will feature in Isle of Man Boxing’s end-of-season finale show at the Villa Marina on Saturday night.

There will be 16 bouts featuring Manx boxers from Viking and Manx ABCs and they will face tough opposition from the north west of England. Also on the line will be the Isle of Man Celtic Challenge Cup, with the Isle of Man taking on a strong team from Northern Ireland.

Tickets for this event are on sale at the Villa Marina box office priced at £10. Boxing fans wanting to support the local fighters can also pay on the door.

NOBLE’S Hospital is helping to spread the dignity message to the island’s sixth form students.

When one of the island’s high schools invited Jayne Kerruish and Cathie Quine, two senior nurses from the hospital, to help them deliver a dignity workshop, it was seen as a great opportunity to celebrate the dignified care that is delivered at Noble’s Hospital and to spread the dignity message to the wider community.

As part of the A-level health and social care module, sixth form students are required to explore the concept of dignity.

The working definition of dignity that underpins the beliefs in Noble’s Hospital was one that could be shared with the sixth form students. Part of that definition is: ‘Dignity is concerned with how people feel, think and behave in relation to the worth or value of themselves and others. To treat someone with dignity is to treat them as being of worth, in a way that is respectful of them as valued individuals.’

Workshops have now been delivered to three of the Isle of Man’s sixth form high schools. Through interactive group work and discussions, the students are stimulated to think about the meaning of dignity and to discuss their own views on the subject.

Bev Critchlow, director of nursing, midwifery and therapies, said: ‘It is really important that our nurses are able to reach all parts of the community and I know that this has been of great value to the schools and students.

‘Both Cathie and Jayne have really enjoyed sharing the dignity message with such enthusiastic students. Wherever we can, we will link up in the community and work alongside others to promote these best practice values.’

Minister for Health David Anderson MHK said: ‘The department firmly believes in highlighting the fundamentals such as dignity. It is of paramount importance that patients feel that they are treated with privacy, dignity and respect. Our nursing staff take great pride in spreading this message across the island.’

TWO government departments overspent on their budgets by a combined total of more than £0.8 million despite repeated warnings about fiscal prudence, latest draft government accounts show.

Meanwhile, Treasury Minister Eddie Teare MHK has rejected claims that the government’s rebalancing strategy is not going far enough – insisting if you cut too deep and too fast, you risk tipping the economy into recession.

Tynwald will be asked to approve supplementary votes of about £0.4 million each for the departments of Social Care and Home Affairs after they overspent on their budgets. This is in addition to the supplement vote of £0.5 million for Social Care approved in July last year.

The DSC’s overspend is the result of extra childcare costs but also the fact that payments of Income Support were £2.8 million over budget – a symptom of the economic downturn making itself felt.

Police officers’ pay awards, linked to UK agreements, pushed the DHA’s revenue budget into the red.

But under-spending by other government departments and the statutory boards has meant that the government is still on track to rebalance public finances in the wake of the VAT bombshell.

In fact, government coffers are £7 million better off then expected for the year 2011-12.

Greater than expected tax revenues, up by £3 million, and underspending by other departments and boards totalling £4 million has resulted in a surplus of £23 million, up from the £16 million originally forecast.

Even the Department of Education, which announced swingeing cuts to pre-school and library provision this year, came in £144,000 under budget in 2011/12.

Treasury Minister Eddie Teare said both the DSC and DHA had faced unforeseen extra costs that had resulted in the overspends.

He said: ‘These things are never welcome but our revenues have been holding up well and the indications are they will remain fairly strong.’

Last week, the independent review team looking into the Scope of Government recommended that the government embark on a programme of part-privatisation of public services in a bid to reduce the burden on the taxpayer. But in a supplementary report it went further still, claiming that the government’s rebalancing strategy was not going far enough and arguing that major savings should be identified.

It listed as possible candidates for cuts the phasing out of the Manx pension supplement, the mothballing of the Gaiety Theatre and Villa Marina and the cutting back of services at Ramsey Cottage Hospital.

But rejecting the panel’s criticisms, Mr Teare insisted: ‘We are over half way through our rebalancing strategy. It is on track and proceeding at the right pace - I would not want to accelerate it.

‘If you cut too far and too fast you risk the economy tipping into recession. You would end up with a Greek-style problem. We are in danger of talking ourselves down here. I feel we have not have the acknowledgement of the progress that’s been made to date. I’m confident we can get through this but there will be hurdles along the way.’

The Department of Community Culture and Leisure will also been seeking Tynwald approval after going £560,000 over-budget on both spending and income. Extra revenue was generated largely from heritage railway events but this was offset by the need to pay greater staffing costs to cover those events.

In Tynwald this week, supplementary capital sums totalling just under £7 million were approved. Mr Teare said there were 47 schemes that were in excess of the annual capital expenditure votes but added: ‘This arises from timing. There are always some schemes that proceed more slower than hoped and other schemes the proceed more quickly.’

BREWERY boss Martin Brunnschweiler has been dying to keep a secret.

The Bushy’s supremo had been hoping to keep under wraps his plans for a unique final resting place many years ahead in the future.

It must be stressed ale and hearty Martin, 52, has never been in better health.

But a while back he heard about a company in the UK which specialises in making bespoke coffins.

Vic Fearn and company Ltd in Bulwell near Nottingham, are also known as Crazy Coffins and have been satisfying a growing need for people dying to make a statement about their final send off.

From guitars to skateboards and even skips no order is off the order of service for the company which employs around 25 employees.

Martin, who is six ft four ins tall, commissioned Crazy Coffins to build an exact replica of one of his unique Bushy’s beer bottle cars. It will even have wheels.

‘It was supposed to be a secret,’ said Martin.

‘But people can be rest assured I am very happy and have no plans to leave this world for quite a few decades yet.’

And he was quick to assure people that it has nothing to do with his beloved Blackburn Rovers being relegated from the Premier League last week.

‘I’ve seen Rovers when they were playing in the third division so I’m used to the ups and downs of football.’

Martin, who is busily preparing for one of the the busiest times of the year over the TT period, said he heard about the company on the internet and thought it would be fun to have an exact replica of the car made.

Managing director David Crampton told Business News the bespoke wooden creation is eco-friendly.

‘It is nearly finished and we are just waiting to put the wheels on,’ he said.

He added that because the customer was in no hurry the work had been done on and off over the last few months.

Martin’s hush-hush plan was blown after a UK national newspaper website splashed on the work of Crazy Coffins with an array of photographs of their weird and wonderful creations. One of the photos was of Mr Crampton posing with the Bushy’s commission.

Martin said it had not yet been decided where the coffin will be kept but he thinks it unlikely that he will put it on public display which is what some customers of Crazy Coffins have done in the past.

The bespoke burial vessels are understood to range in price from around £1,000 to £5,000.

The wacky designs have attracted fans from as far away as Switzerland with the company being invited to display their work at an art exhibition in Zurich.

Ursula Williams, from Crazy Coffins, said nothing was too unusual for the coffin makers to try and make.

Unusual designs have included a guitar design, a giant football boot, the Orient Express and a skateboard.

The company stresses it makes more traditional final resting places too.

Martin told Business News he has yet to see the beer van coffin but might pop in to see it when he is travelling next through the Midlands.

THE Isle of Man Examiner is in shops now.

In today’s Examiner we reveal that the Meat Plant is to stop supplying packaged meat, which seems certain to mean less Manx produce on shop shelves.

There’s a picture special from Saturday’s Manx Youth Games.

And we take a look at the full Garden Party line-up following the announcement of the Charlatans as one of the headline acts.

We reveal the winner of our Junior Journalist competition.

Find out why a well-known dentist is returning to East Africa.

And there’s the latest news about where the Department of Infrastructure is going to be carrying out road resurfacing.

Sport reports on an astonishing end to the football season after St George’s secured the Grand Slam with a dramatic victory in the Hospital Cup final, as well as looking ahead to the pre-TT Classic.

Quirks of Life takes a look at the latest branding slogan for the Isle of Man.

And Business News talks to the bosses of a firm with a golden touch.

Plus there’s another chance to nominate your pet for the Pet X Factor competition.

In West News, we reveal the winner of the Western Photographic Society’s photographer of the year prize.

North News celebrates a 100th birthday for one special Ramsey resident.

In South News, we look ahead as the anchor from the Mona’s Queen is about to arrive in its final resting place.

The Isle of Man Examiner is in shops now.

ATTENDANCE at the Cannes Film Festival is an ‘essential part’ of the on-going development of the island’s film industry, it’s claimed.

Isle of Man Film, accompanied by CinemaNX is currently attending the 65th Cannes Film Festival, promoting the island as a location for film production and film finance.

The Department of Economic Development’s film and media manager Hilary Dugdale and assistant manager Mike Reaney will be at the festival for a week selling the island’s recently completed films (Honour, starring Paddy Considine and Ashes, starring Ray Winstone) and looking for new partnerships and productions for later this year.

The Isle of Man team are based, as usual on a boat moored alongside the Palais de Festival.

The department has contributed £54,500 towards the cost of the boat. Bedecked with Isle of Man Film and CinemaNX banners, it serves as a focal point in the week’s activities.

It provides meeting facilities, screening facilities, accommodation for IOM representatives and also serves as a venue for a number of receptions, press lunches and events involving hundreds of leading industry producers, financiers, lawyers, distributors and sales companies.

Laurence Skelly MHK, department member with responsibility for film and media said: ‘Attendance at the Cannes Film Festival is an essential part of the ongoing development of our Film industry. In these challenging economic times we are striving to maintain our position in a constantly evolving and competitive industry.

‘Cannes is the one event in the year when you can guarantee that everyone we need to talk to will be available to meet.

‘It’s very important that we continue to project the most positive message to the industry to say that the Isle of Man is very much a centre of excellence for film finance and production and that we are open for business.’

An independent report commissioned from consultants Oxford Economics to assess the value and competitiveness of the island’s film industry will be made public in mid-June.

There have been a series of questions raised in the Keys over the past 12 months about whether investments in movies were providing a good return for the taxpayer. CinemaNX chairman Steve Christian has insisted the industry, since its inception, has provided a direct economic benefit to the island totalling up to £250 million.

The Festival runs until May 27.

For those of us who did not live through the Second World War, our perceptions of the conflict are based primarily on school text books, the accounts of later generation historians and the fiction of a thousand films and novels.

But how much nearer we get to the heat, action and danger of battle when we view war through the eyes of those who were there.

Take Able Seaman Charles Hutchinson, a gunner on HMS Carlisle when it was attacked for six hours by German bombers in a Norwegian fjord in May 1940. ‘Hell’s pandemonium started,’ he wrote, ‘planes attacking from all angles, and I couldn’t describe it if I wanted to. No-one except those taking part could ever realise it... It was like Hell let loose.’

Glyn Prysor is well aware of the power and immediacy of a first-hand witness and here he assembles a rare and compelling look at the Second World War as witnessed by the ordinary sailors of the Royal Navy.

The aim of Citizen Sailors is to personalise the war, to show us the humanity and horror, triumphs and tragedies, nerve-racking convoys and epic gun battles, devastating aerial bombardment and swashbuckling amphibious landings.

Prysor reveals the grinding truths of everyday naval duties alongside the bigger picture of battles, operations and strategies. Small but telling detail brings the war to life in all its shocking reality.

When a shell from the Bismarck hit the bridge of the Prince of Wales in 1941, killing two sailors and injuring the captain, Midshipman Graeme Allen recorded that ‘blood began to drip steadily on to the chart table. We caught the drips in a half empty jug of cocoa.’

By drawing on hundreds of contemporary diaries and letters, along with memoirs, oral history and official documents, Prysor tells the groundbreaking human story of Britain’s war at sea.

The sailors of the Royal Navy fought from the very first day of the war until the very last. They played a vital part in a truly global war, from America to Australia and from the Arctic to South Africa. They fought in every conceivable vessel, from vast aircraft carriers and cramped corvettes, fast motor boats and rickety minesweepers to Swordfish biplanes and ageing submarines.

As Prysor points out, the war at sea appears at first glance to have been somehow less human than other campaigns, shaped more by technology, strategy and firepower than by people. The ships, and not their sailors, are too often regarded as the main characters.

Indeed, during a Mass Observation survey in 1941, the public often commented that sailors were doing ‘lots of dull, dangerous work bravely and well.’ One respondent admitted: ‘I know no sailors but I think they are heroic.’

Personal diaries were strictly forbidden but this did not stop many sailors – both officers and ratings – from recording their thoughts on paper and some are known to have written every day, storing their papers and journals in lockers and ‘ditty boxes.’

Inspired by these writings, Citizen Sailors draws upon the experiences of this mass of individuals to create ‘a human panorama.’ Prysor explores everyday concerns, extraordinary experiences and the emotional and personal responses of sailors and naval personnel to the actions and dangers they faced.

Over the war years, the regular servicemen were joined by tens of thousands of mobilised reservists, many from the merchant navy, and later by volunteers and draftees who eventually formed the bulk of the navy’s personnel.

‘Every member of the Royal Navy shared a common duty,’ says Prysor. ‘Perhaps more importantly, every sailor retained an emotional link with Britain or the Empire.’

This, he asserts, was a central part of the sailor’s psychological condition. Whether home was romanticised or criticised, pined for or escaped from, it was a defining feature of a sailor’s everyday concerns.

Each was ultimately serving the same society with the same purpose. ‘Just as they were all sailors, so were they all citizens.’

Citizen Sailors is an extraordinarily moving and vivid history of the British sailor’s war and puts the Royal Navy and its service personnel back where they belong – at the heart of the story of the Second World War.

(Penguin, paperback, £9.99)

THE Department of Education and Children has submitted a plan to government planners for a special unit at the Isle of Man College for students aged 16 to 19 with profound and multiple learning difficulties.

If the plan is approved, Education Minister Peter Karran will seek Tynwald approval for the £1.92 million scheme in October.

And if approval is secured, it is hoped that work would soon start on the two-storey unit at the college, in Homefield Road, Douglas, so it could be open the following September.

Special educational needs adviser Sue Marriott said: ‘At present students with severe and complex learning difficulties do not have the option of full-time college places.

‘The new facility will provide a specialist environment for those students and improve accommodation for all students with special needs attending the college.’

The facilities, for 30 students, would include teaching areas, an IT area, a sensory garden, a multi-sensory room, physiotherapy and medical rooms, and a toilet and shower area. On the upper level would be a café run by students under staff supervision. Among the produce grown would be items sold in the allotment the students who currently access the college look after.

The unit, which would have its own separate entrance but would also be attached to the main college building, would be situated on the former college nursery playground.

Outside term-time, it is hoped that other agencies would make use of the facilities.

Isle of Man College principal Professor Ronald Barr said the unit would ‘bring about a significant improvement to the quality of life’ of the whole family – not just the students concerned.

At present there are special units at each of the island’s five secondary schools, providing inclusive education at secondary level for children with special needs. But DEC director of services Sally Brookes said the units did not have the space to meet the needs of students post-16.

The college provides a general studies programme for students with learning difficulties – which covers life skills and work skills based on individual’s needs. This would be reviewed and extended if the development goes ahead.

Students also have the option to access other courses offered by the courses, such as A-levels and degree level courses. The DEC’s submission states: ‘The department believes there should be equality of opportunity for these children, with access to Isle of Man College and the curriculum it offers, together with greater opportunity for integration and socialisation with their peers.’

BEE Gees singer Robin Gibb has died aged 62 after a lengthy battle with cancer.

The Manx singer was born in the Isle of Man in 1949, but grew up in Manchester, later moving to Australia.

But they didn’t forget their Manx-roots.

Robin bought a house here on the outskirts of Peel in 2006.

Douglas Borough Council conferred the honorary Freedom of the Borough on Barry, Robin and the late Maurice Gibb – Robin’s twin, who died in 2003. The conferment ceremony was held in the Council Chamber of Douglas town hall attended by Barry and Robin Gibb, their mother Barbara and members of the Gibb family during a special meeting of the full Council.

Robin thanked Douglas Borough Council for conferring the honour, which he said ‘was very humbling’, adding he was proud to be Manx.

The singer and songwriter sold more than 200 million records and notched up dozens of hits with his brothers during his musical career.

Gibb’s family said in a statement on Sunday night: ‘The family of Robin Gibb, of the Bee Gees, announce with great sadness that Robin passed away today following his long battle with cancer and intestinal surgery.

‘The family have asked that their privacy is respected at this very difficult time.’

MANX Gas has confirmed that between 10 and 15 jobs are to go as part of a restructure of its operations.

Commercial director of parent company International Energy Group John Davies said the job losses will be across all levels of the workforce at Manx Gas in the island.

But he said a full statement would only be issued once the consultation with affected staff had been completed.

He said: ‘Manx Gas is currently undergoing a consultation following a company restructure to improve efficiencies.

‘It is expected that up to 15 jobs will be lost as a result of that restructure. As part of the consultation, and in order to keep staff informed at what is understandably a difficult time, we have held meetings to explain more about the consultation process. We are working closely with the staff and will be updating them at regular intervals. A full statement will be issued once the consultation has been completed and staff have been informed as their welfare is of utmost importance.’

The Isle of Man Examiner reported earlier this month that IEG was looking to axe about 50 jobs across its operations in the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey.

COMPROMISE over controversial government proposals for the future of the Manx Grand Prix could still be possible after a meeting between event organisers the Manx Motor Cycle Club and politicians on Wednesday.

The meeting with Economic Development Minister John Shimmin and the department’s political members came after supporters of the MMCC staged a demonstration outside Tynwald on Tuesday morning.

Related article: {http://www.iomtoday.co.im/news/isle-of-man-news/mgp-protesters-lobby-mhks-ahead-of-tynwald-sitting-1-4549825|MGP protesters lobby MHKs ahead of Tynwald sitting}

Far from revitalising the event, protesters said the government’s proposals to restructure it could well kill it off all together.

At least 50 to 60 people with banners turned out from 8.30am to register their objections to plans by the Department of Economic Development to revamp the format of the MGP from 2013.

The plans would see a focus on classic machines, the modern bike races would be cut by 50 per cent and the emphasis would be on getting professional riders to take part in what has historically been an amateur event.

A meeting the week before, organised by the MMCC at the Mount Murray Hotel, heard the club’s concerns over the government’s proposals, released apparently after taking no account of the club’s own suggestions.

The club also voiced grave concerns about the accuracy of calculations on which the government had based its findings that the event made a £360,000 loss.

Protester Dave Moffitt, winner of last year’s MGP Supertwins race and an ambassador for the event recently visited the Helsinki motorcycle show promoting it. The move was part of a drive to recruit newcomers and was not government instigated or funded.

He said the proposed loss of the Newcomers’ race was a mistake and involving professional riders in the Manx - historically an amateur event - was doubtful as it clashes with a British Superbike round at Cadwell Park.

He said the proposals may well alienate many of the existing loyal riders particularly in the already dwindling classic classes.

Dave Sells, who rode in his first MGP in 1985, said he had so many objections it was hard to know where to start.

‘We need to keep the MGP name and the heritage,’he said.

‘What happens to all the side events like the Manx two day trial? There must be 1,000 who come over for that – and the spectators.

‘Visitors at the moment go to the island’s tourist attractions on the days that the racing isn’t on. The whole island is going to lose out.

‘The heritage sites for example take far far more money during the MGP - more than during the TT. It’s a more mature demographic.’

Already he said the visitor numbers to the Manx had visibly grown and the key was in promoting it.

Monica Floding, who herself raced in the event in the late 90s and now marshals, added: ‘It’s a brilliant event. And people enjoy it for the greater variety. The TT races tend to be very similar.’

The loss of smaller capacity bikes like 125s, 250s and 400s was also to be regretted, she said.

Technical officer Will Clucas who at last week’s meeting called for supporters to demonstrate outside Tynwald said he was pleased with the level of response.

‘Something has to come out of this. We have to save the MGP,’ he said.

‘There may well have to be change but if their proposals go through it’s going to kill it.’

Former competitor Bill Snelling who runs the TT Fotofinders photograph archive said there was a serious risk of losing 90 years’ heritage.

MGP competitor and sidecar passenger Dave Corlett said removing the modern classes would ‘blight the event’s future’.

‘What they forget is the Manx Nortons and Matchless G50s were the modern bikes of their era. Remove the modern classes and you remove the event’s heart.’

One hotelier who joined the demonstration said the proposals had already had a negative impact on his trade.

Gary Compsty of the Ginger Hall Hotel at Sulby said six of his guests booked in for 2013 – when the proposals are supposed to take effect – had already cancelled because they were not interested in attending the revamped event.

Petition

A written petition against the DED’s proposals has topped 1,500 signatures and a separate online one started by former travelling marshall John McBride, chairman of the MGP Riders’ Association, has passed 3,500 names.

A press release issued jointly by the MMCC and the DED on Thursday said: ‘As a result (of Wednesday’s meeting), the two organisations will continue to work together in the best interest of the event.

‘Further meetings will be held and as progress is made joint press releases will be issued.’

Monday, MAy 21

Aries

(March 21 - April 20)

In a busy week, bouts of pleasure are mingled with some periods of pretty hard work! Still, you of all the signs know that you will only get out what you put in. Express your opinions and ideas at work early on so that others get a clear message. Waiting for someone else to take the lead can only bring frustration. Don’t assume that others will do better.

Taurus

(April 21 - May 21)

It is easy, as this week begins, to get your ideas and feelings over. Make sure that your words are clear so that there can be no misunderstanding. This is especially important when it comes to business. Social gatherings may not appeal but could turn out to be a success. Being more imaginative in your love life brings unexpected dividends and a great deal of fun.

Gemini

(May 22 - June 21)

Feeling sensitive? This has some positive aspects as it will put you in touch with your emotions. During what has been a busy time, you may have been denying yourself intimate thoughts. Well, now it is time to redress the balance. Face what it is that you need and start to look for it. Maybe it is just a matter of being open and honest with your partner? Make it happen.

Cancer

(June 22 - July 23)

This is a creative and loving week. Open both your mind and your heart to new experiences. Practical issues take over midweek and these tend to keep your mind from more desirable things. Still, you may plan something special at the weekend for yourself and friends or a partner. A meeting of minds at that time reminds you that there are some very special people about.

Leo

(July 24 - August 23)

Although you may take with a pinch of salt any promises made this week, suggestions are exciting. A plan that you know will come to nothing in the hands of someone else could be a success if you tackle it yourself. Indeed, taking control of anything this week brings you both satisfaction and progress. Words are no use unless they are followed by actions, something that others do not seem to understand.

Virgo

(August 24 - September 23)

A highly emotional start to the week soon calms down when practical matters take over. Certain financial matters need your concentration before you can relax at the weekend. It’s best to get things sorted in this area as soon as possible, freeing your mind for more enjoyable activities. Getting people together on Sunday can prove a popular move.

Libra

(September 24 - October 23)

This week reminds you that work and happiness can go hand in hand. Imaginations are fired and confidence grows. A meeting of minds influences you to go ahead with a plan. This may be for a holiday. Although you plan carefully, be prepared to be flexible. Global influences may bring changes to travel and it is always good to have a Plan B! The weekend sees you in good form.

Scorpio

(October 24 - November 22)

Be open about your needs this week. This is especially important if you are planning a holiday or home move. Holding things in can only cause resentment later down the line. Increase your charm and persuasiveness by really considering what others need regardless of what they say. Sometimes others will only tell you what they think that you want to hear!

Sagittarius

(November 23 - December 21)

Be at your best in looks and manner this week. Someone who will be important to your future is likely to surface. You should be one step ahead when it comes to both work and romance. There are talents that have not been fully developed so perhaps some extra training or reading is necessary. The more that you understand, the more control you will have.

Capricorn

(December 22 - January 20)

Planning ahead this week means that you are able to cope with any last-minute changes. Being flexible, especially at work, is important. It also gives you an advantage when dealing with both romance and finances. Any rivalry will be short-lived when it becomes clear that you are very much in charge. Letting others see your passion and enthusiasm makes them want to be near you.

Aquarius

(January 21 - February 19)

In matters of the heart you should be building bridges, not burning them. The intensity of your feelings makes others wary and so you may need to turn on the charm. Certainly those less brave souls need convincing. Changing something about your looks or style gives confidence a boost. An expensive gift should not be refused out of hand as that could lead to hurt feelings.

Pisces

(February 20 - March 20)

Do you want to be stylish and mysterious? Go for brighter colours and smoky glasses. Want to impress the boss? Look busy and do your homework. Have some intelligent suggestions to hand. Want to make your finances better? Concentrate! So many improvements can be made this week. Get started on them right from the beginning of Monday.

THE owner of one of Douglas’ best known jewellers is to bring some of the world’s most luxurious brands to the island following a £500,000 investment.

Michael Hyman owner of prestigious jewellers, Wilkins is responding to a surge in demand by more than doubling the size of the premises by moving to Strand Street.

From July, Wilkins will occupy the 1,800sq ft former Axle unit, adjacent to fashion retailer, Next. The relocation marks an investment of £500,000 with the Duke Street premises remaining open for business until the refit is complete.

Once complete, the extended premises will allow Wilkins to introduce new high value brands to this flagship premises, which will be announced at a later date.

The move marks a return to its spiritual home for Wilkins, which traded from Strand Street until 1985 when a move to Duke Street was forced by an extension to the Isle of Man Bank premises.

Wilkins owner Michael Hyman and his family have a long association with the Isle of Man, which dates back to 1929 when his father and uncles opened their first shop under the name of Hymans. The new store is not the first time Michael has invested heavily in the island.

In 2010 he brought the exclusive Pandora brand to the Isle of Man with its stand alone store on Strand Street. The move saw five members of staff added to the team and marked a capital investment of almost £500,000.

Michael said: “We’ve invested £1million into our business on the Island which is a fantastic development for our company. The team can’t wait for the Strand Street store to open.

‘Wilkins, under the stewardship of Neil Dunwell, has flourished as a business and he and the team have developed a loyal customer following across the Isle of Man and on the mainland. Buying jewellery is an extremely important decision and customers trust Wilkins to give them a first class service to help with this purchase. It’s an honour to be given this privilege and we can’t thank our customers enough.

‘It’s great to be returning to our original home and not only will the investment into the store boost our growth, we will be supporting the local economy by bringing Manx craftsmen on to the project.’

Michael Hyman owns the Hyman Group comprising Wilkins, Leonard Dews in Blackpool, and a new concept jewellery store, Chique, in Lytham.

Michael added: ‘Our new premises mark a bold move for the business at a time when many are standing still. We’re firmly committed to the Isle of Man, and confident that our new proposition, coupled with what will be a state-of-the-art showroom on Strand Street, will further strengthen the Wilkins brand.’

A NEW plan to ensure the best deal possible for cancer patients in the Isle of Man was unveiled by Health Minister David Anderson on Friday.

The National Cancer Care Plan is a 10-year scheme outlining the care and service standards expected for patients and deals with all aspects of cancer services including prevention of cancer, screening and early detection, improving clinical outcomes, palliative care, and living with and beyond cancer, on a chapter by chapter basis.

Dr Parameswaran Kishore, director of public health and chairman of the group which developed the plan, said: ‘Cancer is an important health issue; it is projected that one in three people will develop cancer at some stage in their life. It is important that we offer the best treatment we can afford for our cancer patients so that our outcomes from cancer are equivalent to those of the best regions in the UK – the Cancer Plan is the way of achieving such outcomes.’

An Implementation Group has been set up, which includes members from the Department of Health, Department of Social Care, Hospice Isle of Man, cancer patients and charity representatives. The group is to produce an action plan to implement the plan across the island.

Each chapter of the plan outlines specific targets and objectives relating to such issues as cancer screening, palliative care, prevention and diagnosis and improving outcomes for patients.

Derek Peters, chairman of the Cancer User Forum, said: ‘This plan is a boost for cancer patients in the Isle of Man; it has been shaped by cancer patients and carers, who have made a significant contribution in the development of this important plan. I feel that this inclusive approach by the department has given real meaning to the expression ‘‘user-led’’ service.’

Health Minister David Anderson MHK, congratulated everyone involved in developing the plan.

‘I am delighted at the way this plan was produced; by involving cancer patients, carers and charities, we were able to gain a full spectrum of views that were fundamental in the creation of the plan. This provides a prime example of the principal approach of the department, that we take the views of patients very seriously and work with them to shape our services. I strongly recommend the Cancer Plan to everyone with an interest in this area,’ he said.

A copy of the Cancer Plan can be found at {http://www.gov.im/health/services/Public_Health/Service_Improvement/strategies.xml|www.gov.im/health/services/Public_Health/Service_Improvement/strategies.xml}

THE price of some mobile phone calls could be cut dramatically with plans to regulate charges for the first time.

Telecommunications regulator the Communication Commission had published proposals for consultation aimed at bringing down the price paid by consumers for mobile phone calls.

It wants to bring the island in line with every other European country by obliging operators to comply with its directions on the setting of so-called Mobile Termination Rates, the charges made by one network for receiving calls from another.

Those charges are passed on to the caller and they can be significant part of the cost of calling mobiles. In EU countries, where they are regulated, their average cost is 4p per minute at peak times and 3.7p per minute off peak.

In the Isle of Man, however, they cost 7.44p per minute during the day and 5.76p per minute off peak. And they were higher still before the intervention of the Communication Commission in 2009.

The move follows a review by the commission of the local mobile market in which there are two operators – Manx Telecom and Cable & Wireless Isle of Man trading as ‘Sure’.

Dr Carmel McLaughlin, director of the Communications Commission, said competition with arrival of Sure in 2007 had ‘undoubtedly’ brought choice to the telecoms market but the aim of the new proposals was for competition to bring cost savings. ‘We hope to see real benefits for the customers,’ she said.

Competition

A second proposal aimed at encouraging competition would see Manx Telecom and Cable & Wireless obliged to provide appropriate cost accounting information as a condition of their licence.

Chairman of the Communications Commission Juan Watterson MHK said: ‘The commission has adopted European wide best practice in reviewing the telecommunications markets, while making it appropriate for the Isle of Man. Across Europe, mobile termination rates have come down due to this form of regulation. Our proposals would result in lower rates which should benefit consumers through lower call charges.’

Consultation on the proposals ends on June 29. A direction notice could be agreed by the end of the summer but it will be next year before customers start to see costs coming down.

Gillian Lauder, director of IBEX consultants, who was brought in to help carry out the review, said: ‘Mobile termination rates are regulated in every other European country. Termination rates in the Isle of Man are relatively high. We expect to rates come down and come down quickly.’

Mr Watterson said he hoped that operators would co-operate with the Commission to modernise the regulatory framework.

Under existing legislation, the only sanction for an operator breaching the conditions of its licence is for the licence to be revoked. Additional financial sanctions are proposed in a draft Communications Bill which will go out to consultation later this year. The Commission has previously published a review of the fixed communications markets.

IT’S not just a facility for the disabled but one which can benefit the wider community – that’s the message Leonard Cheshire Disability want to get across about its computer drop-in sessions at its HQ in Onchan.

The sessions were set up three years ago after the conversion of a ‘dark and dingy store room’ in the building into a light and accessible work area equipped with desks and computers.

In addition to disabled users, the sessions are also open to young people and elderly residents who might want to get to grips with the mysteries of email and the internet.

Keith Fitton, service manager, said: ‘Many older people now perhaps have children or grandchildren living out of the country and it helps them to keep in contact.

‘One of the things we are keen to emphasise is that it is not purely a disabled facility.

‘We do also have some young people who call in to use the facillities and there are also some who have left school who go online looking for jobs. It’s a good way of breaking down barriers between people.’

One of the charity’s objectives is to help integrate disabled and able-bodied clients. A recent acquisition is a Nintendo Wii, which they hope can be used on equal terms by all children, disabled or not.

David Wood is the co-ordinator who recruits and organises the volunteers who help out at the computer drop-in centre. ‘We get a lot of help from our volunteers and people can either work on their own or, if they need any help, there should be someone to give it,’ he said.

Michelle Ferrer is the former volunteer co-ordinator who got the computer centre up and running.

‘We have always worked on a drop-in basis,’ she said.

‘People can come in and use of the facilities and we try to make sure there is cover during core times, which are 11am to 3pm, Tuesday to Thursday and specific guidance is generally available if anyone wants it.’

For Richard Stubbins, who lives in Douglas, the centre has been a great asset.

‘I’d never touched a computer before,’ he said.

‘I’m learning how to do emails. It’s definitely made a big difference to me. I can find out about anything on the internet at the click of a mouse. I enjoy it very much.’

In fact Richard has since become a volunteer himself with the charity and helps to run the fundraising helmet park they operate each year at the Ramsey sprint.

‘People become isolated,’ Michelle said.

‘If they have a life-changing condition initially you find people come closer, then their circle of friends drifts away.

‘The aim is to get them doing things they used to do or trying new things.’

Leonard Cheshire has eight supported living units around the island, as well as a community team that operates throughout the island giving social support – taking people shopping, or to the cinema or gym, or even to Marks and Spencer for a coffee.

The computer centre was established using eqipment donated by Royal Bank of Scotland and has five desktop and one laptop computers.

It is fully wheelchair accessible and also has height-adjustable desks, high contrast keyboards, speech recognition and communication software. There is also Wi-fi access for anyone who wants to use their own computer.

The organisation, which is always pleased to hear from new and willing volunteers, currently has about 30 people who help out, collectively providing the equivalent hours of two full-time members of staff.

The charity was set up in the 1950s by the former Second World War pilot whose name it now bears. Leonard Cheshire was a decorated airman who boasted a Victoria Cross among his many accolades. His 101st and final mission, in 1945, was at the request of Winston Churchill when Leonard Cheshire was the official British observer at the dropping of the atom bomb on Nagasaki.

Some have suggested his wartime experiences were among the factors which motivated him to set up his first centre in his own home at Le Court in Hampshire in the late 1940s.

Services

Today the charity offers support to disabled people in 52 countries around the world. In 1991 Leonard Cheshire was given a life peerage and he died a year later, aged 74.

To find out more about Leonard Cheshire Disabillity, or to offer services as a volunteer, call 679030, email keith.fitton@lcdisability.org or call into the centre at Beech House, Main Road, Onchan.

MAROWN booked their place in Wednesday evening’s Paul Henry Gold Cup final with a 4-0 victory over Foxdale at Ballafletcher on Friday evening.

After an even start to the semi-final tie a cracking half-volley from Kevin Druggan handed the Crosby side the lead and the game’s initiative in the 16th minute.

With both teams struggling to create chances, Dave Brew’s promoted charges didn’t double their advantage until 11 minutes into the second period when Niall Quayle headed in Juan Killip’s corner.

Two goals in two minutes then effectively sealed Marown’s advancement as Dale’s resolve finally began to ebb away. Richard Mulhern made it 3-0 before Quayle added his second of the match to rubber stamp the win with 15 minutes left on referee Alan Cowin’s watch.

Foxdale had only qualified for the Gold Cup semis on Tuesday evening, a 2-5 victory over Douglas Royal the culmination of a fine end-of-season run that saw them pip last week’s opponents and fellow westerners Michael to the fourth and final qualification berth.

Dale took this momentum into the early stages of the weekend’s tie and nearly edged in front when Willie Wood’s inswinging corner forced Marown keeper Mark Kinley into action.

Marown hit back and only some stout defending from Dale’s impressive centre-back partnership of Jack Smith and Matt Venables kept their opponents at bay.

The latter paring were eventually beaten by a moment of magic from Druggan just after the quarter-of-an-hour mark. Young full-back Sean Doyle was increasingly becoming a threat down the left for the Memorial Playing Grounds outfit. His centre into the Foxdale box was only cleared as far as the edge of the area where Druggan was lurking to lash in a dipping volley that gave Dale keeper Stuart Naisbitt no chance.

Marown tried to kick on, but both teams struggled to create scoring opportunities in the increasingly blustery conditions at the wind-swept venue. A dour game developed as a result, with Quayle and Dale’s combative midfielder Andy Chadwick trading chances in the run up to the break but that was as good as it got for both sides’ hardy band of supporters.

The second half continued in the same fashion. Foxdale’s Scott Kermeen’s driving run and shot threatened to break the tedium, but Kinley produced a smart stop to keep out the defender’s stinging effort.

At the other end of the pitch a well-worked set piece saw Marown double their lead. Killip delivered a good corner into the near-post where Quayle was lurking unmarked to head emphatically in.

A midfield battle ensued until the 73rd minute when the increasingly influential Ryan Holdaway carved open the Dale defence with a lovely through ball and former Corinthians attacker Mulhern did the rest finishing with aplomb.

Two minutes later the tie was done and dusted. Holdaway was again in the thick of the action as he embarked on a barn-storming run towards the Dale goal. He was eventually denied by Naisbitt, but the loose ball fell to Quayle who slotted in to all but seal the victory.

Dale continued to battle, but as was the story of their match failed to really test former club-mate Kinley in the Marown goal. Indeed the Brew’s men could have added a fifth at the death when substitutes Paul Timson and Paul Postlethwaite combined, the latter shooting over when through on goal.

Team check

Marown Mark Kinley, Alex McQuarrie, Sean Doyle, Michael McHale, Nigel Shimmin (Paul Timson 83m), Stuart Christian, Richard Mulhern (Paul Postlethwaite 83m), Juan Killip (Neil Withers 77m), Kevin Druggan, Niall Quayle, Ryan Holdaway.

Foxdale Stuart Naisbitt, Scott Kermeen, Craig Lemaire, Matt Venables, Jack Smith, Stuart Morrison, Andy Chadwick, Liam Leece, Willie Woods (John Kelly 85m), Stephen Bettridge, Gavin McLaughlin (Liam Cannan 87m). Sub not used Andrew Cover.

Referee Alan Cowin

Assistants Tommy Crowe, Willie Cowley.

Booked Leece, Venables (Foxdale)

Man of the Match Doyle (Marown) Solid game down the left for the Marown full back.

Match rating HHHHH

CHIEF Minister Allan Bell MHK said he welcomes Tynwald’s unanimous backing for a resolution highlighting the importance of economic growth.

Mr Bell said the motion from Michael MHK Alfred Cannan urging policies to support growth and promote investment and innovation was very much in line with government’s existing priorities.

He told the Examiner: ‘I strongly welcomed this debate. It has been very rare over the last few years for any backbencher to raise debates specifically about the economy and the need for economic growth. It is heartening that this should happen and with such strong support from Tynwald across the board, especially among the new members who see the need to place economic growth at the centre of government.’

Mr Bell said he recognised that by arguing that economic development is key to the future Mr Cannan was ‘pushing against an open door’ but he thanked him for initiating a debate underlining the critical importance of this issue.

He said government has the responsibility and ability to create the environment for business to develop and flourish.

It can do this by bringing in the legislation required, provide financial support schemes, remove as many obstacles as possible to economic growth and to ensure the education, training and vocational support is there to ensure the island has a highly skilled workforce.

Mr Bell has previously said his aspiration is to ensure the island as a whole becomes an enterprise zone committed to promoting innovation and entrepreneurialism.

In a two-hour debate in Tynwald last Tuesday, Mr Cannan stressed the need to stay focused on the island’s economic policy and sustain its economic future.

He told the court: ‘The Isle of Man needs a more focused, centralised policy. Its difficulties might remain for some years to come but there are always opportunities to succeed.’

Mr Cannan said there needed to be emphasis on growth, clear targets and job creation. ‘We need to have more people employed and paying income tax,’ he said.

Rushen MHK Laurence Skelly, a member of the Department of Economic Development, said there were clear opportunities from so-called clean technology and there were good employment opportunities in fields such as e-gaming.

Concluding the debate, the Chief Minister admitted it was easy to have the debate and identify the challenges. ‘We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. The next stage is solutions: that’s the challenge and that’s what’s always missing in these debates.’